How has attending an HBCU set you up for success?
Attending an HBCU has equipped me with the necessary tools and skills to succeed not only in a corporate environment but also in everyday life. I believe that, through my journey at my HBCU, I have learned numerous lessons that I can apply to my future. With this experience, I know I will navigate life after college with confidence.
What inspired you to apply for the "Celebrating Fashion Future" program?
What inspired me to apply was mainly my curiosity about the outcome of the program. When I say that, I mean how I can make my mark in the program by sharing knowledge with others, as well as what the program can do for me.
What drives you? Share your passions, values, or a defining experience that shaped who you are today.
My drive comes from my background and upbringing. Both of my parents are entrepreneurs, and I experienced both success and hardship in their businesses. Being a part of their journey sparked something in me, giving me the drive to succeed in anything I pursue. My passion for fashion comes from my father, whose style and knowledge of the fashion community inspired me. Above all, I value my family and the legacy we are building, striving for our name to represent something meaningful one day.
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 becoming a fashion icon within the elevated streetwear space. I know I will achieve this due to my open-mindedness toward all mediums of art. I believe that if I never stop learning and remain curious, I will continue to find inspiration to create. For example, I regularly read about different artists and their creative processes, drawing from their work and implementing elements in my own way. By doing this, I pay homage to them while inspiring others and opening doors for new creative approaches in fashion.
What excites you about the intersection of entrepreneurship and corporate careers, and how do you see yourself navigating both worlds?
What excites me about the intersection of entrepreneurship and corporate careers is the ability to apply both skill sets in different settings and still succeed. Additionally, the knowledge gained from a corporate career can be implemented in entrepreneurship to improve overall results.
When envisioning myself in both worlds, I am confident in my ability to succeed. Excelling in both corporate and entrepreneurial pursuits is primarily about maintaining balance. As long as I stay well-balanced in completing tasks, I will be just fine.
How has this program helped you grow personally and what's one insight you're taking with you for the future?
The program helped me grow in teamwork and the delegation of roles in my personal entrepreneurship journey. I am primarily used to being in full control of everything. However, through this program, I have learned to trust my colleagues' abilities to complete certain tasks.
Not only that, but it has also taught me how to combine different ideas to create one amazing concept. After this program, I know I will have much more trust in others, as I have seen firsthand how well my group and I worked together when trust was implemented.
How does your campus Black Retail Action Group (BRAG) create community and opportunity for students?
BRAG does a great job of making opportunities known to students on our campus. They host many events in collaboration with other organizations to showcase different aspects of the Black Retail Action Group. For instance, they’ve collaborated with CEID for a panel discussion featuring student entrepreneurs in the fashion industry.
