How has attending an HBCU set you up for success?
"You may write me down in history with your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt, But still, like dust, I'll rise."
— Maya Angelou
Attending an HBCU has surrounded me with excellence—seeing people who look like me thrive has motivated me to push even harder. Before attending Howard, I admired HBCU students from afar, and now, being immersed in this environment of Black educational excellence, I feel even more empowered. The culture of success, self-love, and representation—where diversity in thought, ambition, and style is celebrated—fosters confidence and resilience.
From networking with accomplished alumni to engaging in culturally rich traditions, this experience has deepened my sense of identity, broadened my opportunities, and equipped me to excel in any space. My time at Howard has shown me that I am not only capable but deserving of success, and I am now more determined than ever to create a lasting impact in the world.
What inspired you to apply for the "Celebrating Fashion Future" program?
"Activism has to remain active. That's the trademark slogan and that's the mantra, because if your foot doesn't stay on the pedal, the car will stop."
— Bethan Hardison
Ever since I was young, my mom taught me the power of expressing my voice through fashion. Throughout elementary, middle, and high school, fashion became my way of communicating without words. Whether it was wearing a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. or First Lady Michelle Obama shirt paired with a black skirt, knee-high socks, and Jordans/Fenty boots, I loved sharing history and culture through style. In those moments of quiet, fashion became my loudest form of expression—my way of yelling without uttering a sound.
I applied for the Celebrating Fashion’s Future program because I want to do more than just acknowledge fashion’s importance—I want to help construct it. Gaining hands-on experience with an iconic brand allowed me to develop skills in e-commerce, marketing, and the foundational aspects of the industry, shaping how fashion is presented and experienced. From website structure to the storytelling behind each collection, I've learned how fashion can transcend beyond clothing and become a powerful tool for communication.
Fashion is more than just style—it's a way to tell stories, amplify voices, and connect cultures. Through my experiences, I am determined to continue using fashion as a medium for activism and expression, shaping the industry in a way that reflects the richness of history, culture, and identity.
What drives you? Share your passions, values, or a defining experience that shaped who you are today.
"I dream it, I work hard, I grind 'til I own it."
— Beyoncé, "Formation"
My passion lies in representation and sharing the Black experience through music, film, fashion, and policy. This passion was born from learning the beauty of my cultural history—watching documentaries, seeing people who look like me win awards, star in films, and define their own image through what they wear and how they speak. Growing up in spaces that didn’t always reflect me, I was deeply inspired by those who created their own narratives.
Now, I strive to do the same—using creativity and advocacy to amplify our voices and ensure our stories are told authentically and unapologetically. Through the lens of art and policy, I aim to shape a world where Black experiences are not only celebrated but fully integrated into the fabric of society, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
How do you see yourself as part of Fashion's future? What unique perspective or contribution will you bring to the industry?
Just like Yara Shahidi rewired my thinking when she wore a tie to class with her blazers and hoops, I see myself as a catalyst for change in fashion, using storytelling and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) to shape a more inclusive industry. Through what I wear and the spaces I work in, I aim to challenge norms, celebrate underrepresented voices, and ensure authenticity in representation. Whether through marketing, creative direction, or policy, my goal is to help brands move beyond performative diversity and genuinely embrace cultural influence.
Fashion is more than style—it’s a language. I plan to use it to rewrite the narrative, ensuring future generations see themselves reflected in every thread and campaign. Much like the movements of the past, I want to create a lifestyle and culture through clothing, one that transcends trends and becomes a symbol of collective empowerment. Through my work, I aspire to establish a movement that not only influences the fashion industry but also creates lasting social impact, allowing people to see the power and pride of their own cultural identity in every piece they wear.
What excites you about the intersection of entrepreneurship and corporate careers, and how do you see yourself navigating both worlds?
"Study the field that you want to get into and know everything about it."
— Kimora Lee Simmons
What excites me about the intersection of entrepreneurship and corporate careers is the unique opportunity to gain valuable skills while building something of my own. Corporate spaces offer financial stability, resources, and a community that can significantly enhance my entrepreneurial pursuits. At the same time, entrepreneurship empowers me to bring fresh, innovative ideas into corporate settings, bridging gaps in creativity and representation.
I see myself navigating both paths by leveraging corporate experience to refine my skills and using my entrepreneurial mindset to challenge norms, drive meaningful change, and create opportunities for others in the industry. This balance will allow me to bring a transformative, forward-thinking approach that elevates both business and culture.
How has this program helped you grow personally and what's one insight you're taking with you for the future?
This program has shown me the power of collaboration—how we all play a role in shaping the industry and have the ability to teach and learn from one another. It has also sharpened my ability to analyze what works and what doesn’t, whether in branding, marketing, or creative storytelling. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how to craft impactful narratives and make intentional decisions that drive results. The key insight I’m taking with me is that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about adaptability, perspective, and a willingness to learn from every experience and person around you.
How does your campus Black Retail Action Group (BRAG) create community and opportunity for students?
Our campus Black Retail Action Group (BRAG) creates a strong community by actively sharing opportunities and fostering a supportive environment for Black students in fashion, retail, and business. Through discussions, we ensure that students have access to industry connections, resources, and guidance to navigate their careers. BRAG provides a space where we can ask questions, collaborate, and uplift one another while embracing our unique perspective. By connecting like-minded creatives who are driven to shape the future through the Black experience, we empower each other to break barriers and make lasting change.
