The Case Study Interview with 2025 FSF Scholar Leynie Hester highlights the concept behind her Levi’s x Spotify project, Share the Soul, a made-to-order T-shirt experience that uses generative AI to translate a shopper’s music taste into a personalized graphic tee. Leynie explored multiple AI platforms, consumer trend reports, and industry research to understand how personalization and technology can work together in ways that feel authentic and accessible. Her concept brings innovation into the Levi’s brick-and-mortar environment—an approach she believes helps customers feel more comfortable engaging with new digital tools.
A senior at the University of Georgia studying fashion merchandising and design, Leynie has held roles in concept design at Aerie and Offline, consulted with American Eagle on sustainable design integration, and is currently preparing a sustainable collection for Berlin Fashion Week. She credits FSF with expanding her confidence, connecting her with mentors and peers, and reaffirming that ambitious ideas belong in this space. Her advice to future Scholars: trust your instincts, start big, and follow the ideas that excite you.
