What inspired you to apply for the "Celebrating Fashion Future" program?
What inspired me to apply to the Fashion Futures program was my passion for fashion and hearing the excitement in other people’s stories. When April came to work with BRAG and shared how the program takes a concept all the way to conception, I was instantly hooked. Hearing about Jaylen and Misimi’s experiences made it even more exciting—they made me see the real impact and opportunities this program offers. I’m genuinely thrilled to be here, ready to learn, create, and grow alongside people who share the same energy and passion for fashion.
What drives you? Share your passions, values, or a defining experience that shaped who you are today.
What drives me is my family. I am an only child raised by a single mother, surrounded by strong women who shaped my values and ambition. Many of the women in my life were encouraged to choose stability over passion, turning creativity into a hobby instead of a career. My grandmother never finished college, and while my mother did, neither had the opportunity to fully pursue what they loved. When they see me creating, building, and taking risks in fashion, it excites and inspires them. Continuing forward allows me to honor their sacrifices and live out the dreams they were unable to pursue themselves.
How do you see yourself as part of Fashion's future?
I see myself as part of fashion’s future by reshaping how luxury is understood, taught, and represented. My epiphany came from observing how people of color are discouraged from engaging with luxury unless it is loud or in a rap lyric. I want to expand that narrative by educating my community on the range of luxury, including quiet luxury, craftsmanship, and intention. At the same time, I aim to challenge the industry to examine how race influences styling, modeling, and marketing decisions. Through education and representation, both internal and external, I hope to create a more equitable and nuanced vision of luxury in fashion.
How does your campus Black Retail Action Group (BRAG) create community and opportunity for students?
BRAG creates community and opportunity simply by being visible and accessible. Even before this trip, I ran into a friend from class who asked where I was going that week. When I told her I was traveling with BRAG for a program with Steve Madden, she lit up and shared that she loved fashion but never knew how to get into it. Many organizations on campus feel selective or intimidating, but BRAG is open to students from any school and any interest within fashion. By prioritizing inclusion, real relationships, and industry connections, BRAG turns curiosity into confidence and access into real opportunities.
How has attending an HBCU set you up for success?
Attending an HBCU has set me up for success by placing me in an environment where my talent is valued without being filtered through my race. Growing up, I was often one of the only Black students in advanced classes, praised as “smart for a Black kid,” which was both isolating and limiting. At an HBCU, especially one of Howard’s caliber, I am surrounded by peers who were once singled out like me and are now pushing one another to excel. For the first time in my life I' m seen for my ability, creativity, and ambition, not as an exception.
