How has attending an HBCU set you up for success?
Attending an HBCU has set me up for success in countless ways. The amount of care and support found at an HBCU is unmatched. There is a certain level of excellence expected of us scholars, which I appreciate because it allows me to be the best I can. Success to me means going above and beyond the minimum, and being a part of Clark Atlanta University’s Art and Fashion Department has shown me in order to be exceptional, I must do exceptional work.
What inspired you to apply for the "Celebrating Fashion Future" program?
I was inspired to apply for the “Celebrating Fashion’s Future” program to gain an understanding of where myself and fellow peers are seen within the future of the fashion industry. Being able to share ideas and insights amongst other scholars was also a great opportunity I was eager to explore!
What drives you? Share your passions, values, or a defining experience that shaped who you are today.
My vision of success drives and motivates me. I have always set goals for myself, and ensured that I hit the marks necessary to achieve them. Fashion has always been the leading factor for me, it has shaped me into who I am today. I never forget that feeling when I realized this was my calling. Once I saw I couldn’t buy items I wanted due to small sizing, I promised myself I would make my own. Not just for me, but for others too. Everyday I work towards that vision of success.
How do you see yourself as part of Fashion's future? What unique perspective or contribution will you bring to the industry?
I see myself part of fashion’s future through the lens of representation. My sole purpose in the fashion industry is to shed light on the possibilities and limitless opportunities within this amazing industry. What makes my perspective unique is the attention I pay towards furthering my community’s growth and development through this journey.
What excites you about the intersection of entrepreneurship and corporate careers, and how do you see yourself navigating both worlds?
The intersection between entrepreneurship and corporate careers definitely excites me because it provides the opportunity to have the best of both worlds. Growing up my goal was always to be on both spectrums in the fashion industry, simply because it would make me a well-rounded individual. Having transferable skills from both ends is a major advantage. I see myself navigating both worlds by starting small and learning the basics of both fields, then expanding upon and merging the two.
How has this program helped you grow personally and what's one insight you're taking with you for the future?
The Steve Madden x Shopify Bootcamp Program has helped me grow personally by giving me a better direction of how to translate ideas into action on the corporate side, and how to take calculated entrepreneurial risks. There were so many gems dropped through this program and I’m grateful to say I have experienced this wonderful opportunity. Before coming into the program, I was sure there was only one way to get to my end goal of success, but this experience opened the doors to many options and routes to take within the industry. One of the major insights I took away was to always know my audience. Graphics and logistics are great, but in the end it is only successful if it reaches the right market.
How does your campus Black Retail Action Group (BRAG) create community and opportunity for students?
Clark Atlanta University’s BRAG chapter has created community and opportunity for students through the numerous opportunities shared and offered. Here at CAU, we are committed to providing students with the best opportunities possible in the field they are most passionate about. Whether it’s the fun general body meetings or the interactive student entrepreneur mixer, there is a space for all students in the organization. There is a focus on providing students with resources on how to get into their desired field, as well as scholarship/internship opportunities. Overall, CAU’s Black Retail Action Group is dedicated to continuing the growth and development of this much needed organization.
