Empowering Black Creativity
CWC’s 2024 Fellows have been selected and matched to their programs! This summer, we are proud to announce we are sending 25 Black high school students to a pre-college fashion design program at one of our partner schools. The competition was fierce, with applicants from over 5 countries and 25 states! We would like to thank every student who applied this year and we encourage them to reapply next year.
In the upcoming three blog posts, in no particular order, we will shine a spotlight on each of our Year 4 Fellows. We are thrilled for this exceptional group of talented Black students to embark on their journey through the world of fashion design. Stay tuned as we delve into their stories, aspirations, and some of their designs.
Below are the 3 Fellows who will be attending Parsons Academy in NewYork City this summer, Carlos, Dhamani, and Isabelle.
CWC Fellow Carlos
Carlos is an 11th-grader from Miami, Florida. They have a rich background in the visual arts, having engaged in various creative pursuits throughout their academic journey. He is deeply interested in fashion design, particularly in creating wearable art that resonates with people. Carlos aims to make clothes that are not only accessible but also inspire others to appreciate their artistic value.
Carlos has actively participated in extracurricular activities, including serving on the council of the Black Student Union at his school since 9th grade and working as a freelance photographer and makeup artist. Carlos has dedicated himself to his current role as a server at an event catering company. “I take my job very seriously because I work to make people's important days happen. Weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries are the types of events we manage. It is an endearing experience being a part of someone's special day.” These experiences have helped nurture Carlos’s sense of community and leadership.
Despite facing challenges in accessing art and design programs, Carlos remains determined to pursue his goals in the fashion industry. His aspirations include becoming a creative director or contributing significantly to fashion projects. Carlos’s Hispanic heritage plays a significant role in shaping his identity and perspective.
Carlos will be attending Parsons Academy in New York City this summer! We are excited to see how the Parsons program will, in his words, “level up” his technique.
CWC Fellow Dhamani
Dhamani is an 11th-grader from Michigan. They are interested in a diverse repertoire of art and design classes ranging from Fashion Design to Sculpture. Dhamani has explored various mediums and techniques in and outside of school.
Dhamani is fascinated by fashion's ability to tell stories and blend form with function. They've delved into this fusion by creating 3D models of their designs and drawing inspiration from Art Deco architecture, helping shape their perspective as an artist and creator.
“Fashion is such a complex subject that will never be defined, itʼs not just clothes, itʼs art.”
Currently, Dhamani's work with the Detroit Institute of Arts on their Teen Arts Council reflects their passion for creating engaging events centered around art exhibits.
Dhamani will be attending Parsons Academy in New York City this summer!
Dhamani's identity as a young Black queer artist adds depth to their perspective, inspiring others. They are not just a creator; they are a trailblazer breaking barriers and redefining the narrative of what it means to be a fashion designer in today's world.
CWC Fellow Isabelle
Isabelle has been a CWC Fellow every year since the start of our program in 2021. Through our program she has had the opportunity to attend pre-college programs at FIT, The Academy of Art, and SCAD and this summer she will attend Parsons!
Apart from her academic pursuits, Isabelle is involved in many activities from swimming to volunteering at a soup kitchen. Isabelle has worked as a cashier and style assistant, showcasing her versatility. She has also received recognition as Summits Fashion Student of the Year.
What intrigues Isabelle about fashion design is its boundless creativity, which allows her to experiment freely. She finds inspiration in bold individuals like Amanda Murray, known for her eclectic and innovative style. Isabelle aspires to carve her niche in the fashion industry and hopes to create a unique fashion magazine.
We are incredibly proud of Isabelle for being accepted into Drexel University’s Fashion Design and Merchandising program. Isabelle exemplifies how our program supports Black students in navigating the fashion industry.
We will be featuring all our Year 4 Fellows over the next few weeks!
