How has attending an HBCU set you up for success?
Building my portfolio, career readiness programs, workshops, and a special opportunity to study abroad in Italy. Every class and organization on campus has expectections from us as students to have a demeanor of excellence and a level of professionalism. I have learned so much from my university I stand out in other rooms I’m invited into.
What inspired you to apply for the "Celebrating Fashion Future" program?
I didn’t know enough about Ecommerce as well as the logistics behind having successful campaigns with clean photos, easy to click widgets and shortcuts for the consumer to make a sale quicker.
What drives you? Share your passions, values, or a defining experience that shaped who you are today.
Creativity and storytelling drive me—whether through fashion, film, or wellness. I’m passionate about giving life and preserving it, embracing imperfections, and reimagining what exists. Growing up in Detroit, I found beauty in transformation, from repurposed garments to revitalized spaces. My work blends nostalgia with innovation, challenging norms while fostering inclusivity. Leading creative projects, like directing Clark Atlanta University’s fashion show, fuels my love for collaboration and artistic expression. Each piece I design or campaign I create carries a story—one that sparks conversation, connection, and change.
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 redefining fashion’s future by merging upcycling, technology, and wellness. My image is to transform reclaimed materials into thought-provoking designs while integrating textiles that heal from the outside in. Inspired by Detroit’s resilience, I seek to intertwine fashion and science by studying textiles and wellness, creating garments that nurture both body and mind. Through innovation, sustainability, and storytelling, I will push fashion beyond aesthetics—blending nostalgia with technology to craft experiences that transform, protect, and inspire. My goal is to shape a future where clothing isn’t just worn but truly felt.
What excites you about the intersection of entrepreneurship and corporate careers, and how do you see yourself navigating both worlds?
The intersection of entrepreneurship and corporate careers excites me because it allows me to merge innovation with structure, creativity with strategy. As the founder of an organization call The Culture Collective serving as president of the fashion department and having a personal brand called Painted Faces, I embrace fashion as a tool for transformation, while corporate experiences provide the resources, networks, and knowledge to scale my vision. By studying textiles and wellness, I aim to develop products that heal from the outside in, bridging fashion, technology, and sustainability. Navigating both worlds, I see myself leveraging corporate insights to refine my business while bringing entrepreneurial ingenuity to established brands, driving meaningful industry change.
How has this program helped you grow personally and what's one insight you're taking with you for the future?
It. has helped me grow by expanding my perspective on the intersection of fashion, business, and innovation. Through networking, mentorship, and hands-on experiences, I’ve gained confidence in navigating the Ecommerce space. The program has reinforced the value of storytelling in branding, the power of strategic partnerships, and the importance of representation in the retail industry. One key insight I’m taking with me is that success isn’t just about creativity—it’s about understanding the business behind it. Whether scaling my brand, or working within a corporation, I now approach fashion with a balance of artistry and strategy. The BRAG x Steve Madden program has given me some insight to merge my passions for textiles, wellness, and technology, allowing me to create products that heal from the outside in while fostering opportunities for others in the industry.
How does your campus Black Retail Action Group (BRAG) create community and opportunity for students?
At Clark University our Black Retail Action Group fosters a dynamic community by connecting students with industry leaders, career opportunities, and mentorship in fashion, retail, and entrepreneurship. Through workshops, networking events, and brand partnerships, we provide hands-on experiences that prepare students for leadership roles in the industry. BRAG empowers creatives and business-minded individuals alike by offering insights into merchandising, marketing, and brand development while promoting Black excellence and innovation. By bridging the gap between academia and the professional world, we cultivate a supportive space where students gain the confidence, skills, and resources needed to excel in both corporate and entrepreneurial spaces.
