about me
As I reflect on my academic journey, I've come to realize my neurodiversity is not a limitation, but a unique strength. Growing up, I struggled to conform to traditional learning methods, feeling like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole. However, I've discovered my brain's unconventional wiring is actually a gift, allowing me to approach problems with a creative and innovative mindset.
I come from a long line of creatives who have inspired me to embrace my artistic side. My grandmother, a skilled artist in sewing and pinning, could create entire garments from just an idea in her head. My mother, a successful entrepreneur, founded a lingerie line in New York and taught me the value of hard work and determination. My father, the founder of Macro, a multimedia company, has a keen eye for talent and has broken barriers for people of color in the entertainment industry. I even had the opportunity to design the concept for the Macro animated logo, creating a staircase illuminated with light and coming together to form the original logo, symbolizing the company's mission to elevate and empower.
Throughout my academic journey, I've sought out opportunities to combine my creative passion with business acumen. While in quarantine during the COVID19 pandemic, I taught myself how to edit videos on Adobe After Effects. I have taken a class in sports business and entrepreneurship and marketing, learning the importance of having a vision and executing it to meet the needs of others. I participated in a summer program at Vogue, where I learned about styling, trends, and the fast-paced world of fashion. I was mentored by a GQ magazine editor, who taught me the value of attention to detail and the importance of teamwork in curating style for photo shoots, but also expressing your ideas proudly. I also attended a summer program at Otis College of Art and Design, where I learned the basics of design, including sewing, draping, and pinning. I created a pair of oversized and distressed jeans, combining my love of fashion with my passion for creativity.
Most recently,I had the opportunity to style my first photoshoot. I came to the conclusion this is something I want to pursue in my life as it came natural to me. I wanted to experiment with something I have not seen as much of which is a combination of colors in green, purple and blue. Before I even chose the items of clothing, I saw the outfits in my head. I take in inspiration from life around me and find ways to curate the vision in my head.
I am inspired by designers like Virgil Abloh who took a stand to rebrand Louis Vuitton. He knew how to really style the sets of his runways and the pieces he created. He shifted the narrative of fashion at the time with this. With more practice, designing is something I've been doing more of. I started sewing in Downtown LA and I really enjoy it. I've made a few pieces so far which are Lounge Pants, Jeans and a Tote Bag. I like sewing and I see myself getting into it more in the future. I am also interested in the business side of fashion and trying to get into styling and brand management/marketing. I don't just want to be a bystander and someone who follows all the norms in fashion. I want to start and create trends and change the norms.
Through these experiences, I've come to realize my neurodiversity is not a limitation, but a superpower which allows me to bridge business and fashion in a way that's authentic and meaningful to me. I'm committed to using my creative vision to make a positive impact, just like my family has done before me. By embracing our unique perspectives and creative potential, we can unlock a brighter, more innovative future for all.