Passion and diversity took center stage at Bryan Station High School’s second annual Black History Month Fashion Show. True Turley, a vice president of the host Black Student Union, said her school does a lot to make sure everybody feels comfortable and the fashion show is one way to let teenagers express themselves. “It’s to promote self-confidence and how you feel about yourself and to give you a bit of a spotlight,” she said.
About four dozen students came together as models, stage crews, lighting and sound technicians, emcees, and more to put on the event, dubbed “The Blueprint,” which raised money for the after-school club. Students collaborated with local fashion designers and put together a multi-set show featuring urban wear, formal wear, and native dress. “Some of our African and Latino students modeled cultural garments, which is really neat. It’s things their parents have made for them and that are special to them and their culture,” said club co-sponsor Brandy Ashford, the school’s college and career coach.
The professional connections help students visualize the possibilities for careers in the fashion industry. For instance, one of the highlighted designers was Steven Coffman, owner of the faith-based clothing brand Soul ‘N’ Roses, which has a store in Fayette Mall. His daughter Nakaiya Mayberry happens to teach Business Management & Entrepreneurship at Bryan Station.
About 18 students participated in last year’s fashion show, while the Feb. 16 event drew over 50. In addition, Black Student Union members sold over 300 tickets to peers, families, and community members, including teens from other high schools. “It’s grown tremendously, so hopefully we can continue to give more students opportunities to be showcased,” Ashford said. “It’s really a student-driven project. They are coming up with ideas and executing. It’s amazing to see their leadership and skillsets being put to use.”
“It’s magical – it really is,” Ashford said, noting how the fashion show promotes positive images of all students. True, a sophomore who served as a host and model, agreed, saying, “No matter what you are or who you are, you are beautiful and you are loved.”
Contacts: Brandy Ashford and Whitney Young, co-sponsors of the Black Student Union
Posted Feb. 16, 2023
