580 Calumet Ln, Dayton, OH 45417
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580 Calumet Ln, Dayton, OH 45417
Re(DE-FI)ning Fashion in Dayton, Cincinnati & the Midwest
(DE-FI)antly Caressa-Midwest Fashion's Fearless Trailblazer
Stitching Together Power, Passion, and Purpose at the Same Damn Time
Caressa Brown is a force of nature; bold, compassionate, gritty, and fiercely determined. Known for her “in-your-face” accountability, tough love, and disciplined approach to life and business, she has transformed her trials into triumphs, making her story the foundation for (DE-FI)’s groundbreaking work.
Turning Struggles into Strength and Strength into Triumph
Caressa L. Brown’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and determination, a story that is deeply rooted in the rich, complex history of her family, a legacy that blends tenacity, cultural heritage, and a commitment to justice and progress shaped by the sacrifices of her ancestors and challenges of her upbringing. Her father, a former U.S. Marine Corps drill sergeant (Purple Heart, Grenada) and now retired sergeant from the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department, instilled grit, discipline and resilience. Her mother, a former model, Fashion Fair makeup artist, medical assistant, and community activist, inspired creativity, giving, and compassion.
Together, they laid the foundation for Caressa’s bold and impactful journey. Born to divorced parents, her father remarried when she was five. Despite their separation, her father remained a constant and active presence in her life from birth to today. However, a career as a model was far from what he envisioned for his child. Caressa, an intellect and prodigy with dreams of becoming an architectural engineer, her father encouraged her to focus on her education and seize the opportunities he never had access to.
From Sacrifice to Triumph: A Father's Journey and the Legacy of (DE-FI)ance
Her father’s life was shaped by the harrowing journey of her grandfather, who risked being lynched to escape the oppressive grip of modern-day slavery in the Jim Crow South. Tired of watching his children, some as young as one year old, being forced to pick cotton on a white family’s farm, Caressa’s grandfather made a bold decision. With no schools in their part of Alabama willing to educate Black children and faced with the crushing cycle of debt and servitude during the winter months, he decided enough was enough. The white family who “employed” him would loan her grandfather money to feed his family during the winter, only to demand it back through months of free labor in the fields and high quotas in the long growing season (which is why he had to use his children to help pick the cotton). It was a cycle with no end in sight. To survive, the boys in the family learned to hunt and fish, often relying on beans, fish, or rabbit for their meals.
One winter, after receiving his usual "loan" or winter advance, Caressa’s grandfather packed up his family under the cover of night with no intention of ever working it off or returning the money. With a bounty on his head and a threat of being lynched for his act of (DE-FI)ance, he moved them to Texas, a place where there was a school that taught Black children up to what we now consider the fourth grade. But when the children outgrew the school, the family moved again to another part of Texas where they could attend what we now call grades five through eight. Still, there were no schools in that town for Black high school students. Determined to give his children the chance to pursue "The American Dream," Caressa’s grandfather moved the family once more; this time to Abilene, where her father and his younger siblings were finally able to graduate from high school, the older children, weren't as fortunate, which created some discord. Her grandfather’s courage and foresight paved the way for the next generation, making Caressa’s educational achievements and legacy possible. Caressa represents the first generation on her father’s side born free in this country and one of the first to earn a college degree; a legacy of breaking barriers and forging new paths.
Rooted in Grit: The Unyielding Legacy of Caressa’s Maternal Lineage. Survival.Activism.(DE-FI)ance.
Caressa’s mother’s family hailed from Kentucky and West Virginia before eventually settling in Dayton, Ohio. Her maternal-maternal great-grandfather, a Choctaw survivor of immense tragedy, was relocated to Oklahoma and became the lone survivor after his entire community was burned to the ground. After enduring such unspeakable loss, he eventually relocated to Kentucky before settling in Dayton, where he worked for the Wright Brothers at their airfield, served as a ditch digger at Wright-Patterson Airforce Base, and helped build the I-70 and I-75 highways a testament to perseverance and survival against all odds.
Her maternal-paternal great-grandfather brought pride and intellect to his community as both a friend of the literary giant Paul Laurence Dunbar and as a bailiff in the criminal justice system, representing stability and leadership in turbulent times. Her maternal grandmother's family were also respected tobacco farmers in Kentucky, contributing to the region's agricultural heritage and demonstrating resilience and industriousness in a challenging era.
Caressa’s family has also been (DE-FI)ned by activism: her great-aunt owned a funeral home in Dayton and played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement locally and nationally. She sponsored Freedom Riders and even joined Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the historic 1963 March on Washington. Her sponsorship of other critical Freedom Rides, including Selma, reflects the unwavering courage and sense of duty that echoes through Caressa’s own journey. Caressa fondly recalls sitting by her aunt's side as a child, captivated by her stories of walking arm-in-arm with Dr. King and serving as a local Civil Rights leader who helped fund the campaigns of some of the Dayton region's most legendary elected officials.
Caressa grew up with a deep love for horses, heavily influenced by one of her cousins, a legendary champion thoroughbred horse trainer and owner from Lexington, Kentucky. This same cousin was also a civil rights leader who helped desegregate a Lexington-area school district. Her mother made it a point to ensure that Caressa knew where she came from and the path that had been set for her, instilling in her a sense of pride, determination, and responsibility to honor her family’s legacy.
Caressa also carries the lessons and strength of her maternal grandmother, a trailblazer in her own right. Despite living in an era where most women were unable to make financial decisions without their husband's permission, her grandmother boldly (DE-FI)ed societal norms and purchased a house without his consent. That house, which stands as a symbol of independence and determination, is now owned by Caressa, who serves as its third-generation caretaker and what she calls "Legacy House". The home remains a powerful reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness that (DE-FI)nes her DNA.
Forged Through Adversity: The Journey That Built a Fashion Revolution in Dayton and Cincinnati
As a child, Caressa struggled with low self-esteem do to her tall and thin build, but her mother, a former model, recognized her potential and made sacrifices to enroll her in modeling school to build her confidence. Though financial barriers forced her to leave prematurely, the experience ignited a spark that would shape her future. By the age of 12, Caressa signed her first modeling contract, but her mother’s diagnosis with Multiple Sclerosis placed new responsibilities on her as a caregiver; a role she continues to hold today.
The only child of her mother and the youngest of her father’s children, which include a half-brother, a half-sister, and two step-siblings. Due to a significant age gap and the fact that her siblings all joined the military while she was still in elementary or junior high school, Caressa is not close to them. However, her unique position as the youngest allowed her to forge her own independent path, distinct from the family’s military tradition.
Her modeling aspirations resurfaced after high school when she earned opportunities with renowned agencies, including Click Modeling Agency in Atlanta and Elite Chicago. However, balancing life as a full-time college student, caregiver, and employee working 50+ hours a week at General Motors became overwhelming; plus after her high school graduation, her father relocated back to Texas to be closer to his elderly mother. Time and again, financial barriers and a lack of support extinguished her dreams. These struggles taught Caressa that pursuing a dream takes more than ambition...it requires resources, a strong support system, and a committed community.
These hard-won lessons laid the foundation for Caressa’s vision to create opportunities for others to thrive. Her experiences, both personal and professional, fueled her drive to disrupt the regional fashion industry and transform lives through innovation and collaboration. Her upbringing reflects the values of perseverance, education, and courage, laying the foundation for the bold and transformative leader she has become. Caressa carved out her own legacy, embodying the spirit of individuality and determination that (DE-FI)nes her journey.
From Factory Floors to Fashion Futures
Caressa’s professional journey is as diverse as it is impactful. Before launching (DE-FI), she spent nearly a decade at GM Truck and Bus Moraine Assembly, gaining hands-on experience in a blue-collar industry where grit and teamwork (DE-FI)ned success. She later expanded her leadership skills as both a laborer and manager at DHL at the CVG Airport and in an auto parts manufacturing facility, where she learned firsthand the value of innovation, problem-solving, and persistence. These roles built a strong foundation of resilience that she has carried into the fashion world.
Her academic path reflects that same determination. A graduate of Wright State University, she earned a degree in Urban Affairs with concentrations in organizational leadership, city and regional planning, and nonprofit management. Caressa also continues to sharpen her expertise through programs like the Parsons x WWD Fashion Business Essentials Certificate and service in the Agricultural Research Development Program, where she links farming with economic growth.
In addition to her leadership in fashion and agriculture, Caressa has been a strong community storyteller. She wrote features for Dayton Most Metro, highlighting local talent and creative events, and served as a Community Voices producer with 91.3 WYSO, an NPR affiliate, where she amplified underrepresented voices and regional stories. These experiences deepened her commitment to lifting others and ensuring her work always centers people and community.
Building (DE-FI): A Legacy of Grit and Giving
Determined to ensure others would not face the same obstacles, Caressa founded the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC in 2013. She built (DE-FI) on community outreach, requiring participants to volunteer locally in exchange for services. By eliminating financial barriers and providing the needed support system, (DE-FI) has empowered countless individuals to succeed in the fashion industry.
In just 11 years, (DE-FI) has grown into an internationally recognized brand, fostering a thriving fashion community in Southwest Ohio. Under Caressa’s leadership, (DE-FI) includes:
- The House of (DE-FI)ance: A Fashion & Design Co-working Experience- An interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary fashion co-working safe space focused on team and brand building, as well as professional development.
- (DE-FI) Models- A modeling incubator
- Dayton Fashion Week and the Cincinnati Fashion Incubator- A premier designer incubator, event elevating regional talent.
(DE-FI) has forged partnerships with prestigious institutions such as the University of Cincinnati, Kent State, and The Ohio State University, as well as local high schools including Dayton STEM School and Jefferson. These collaborations, paired with (DE-FI)’s grassroots efforts, have positioned Southwest Ohio as a the birthplace of developing and nurturing tomorrow's fashion stars.
Changing Lives, Transforming Communities
(DE-FI) alum have achieved global success in fashion, media, entertainment, and business. Beyond fashion, Caressa has launched initiatives like Veggie Soul: The Farmers’ Market, teaching residents in food deserts how to garden and become self-sufficient. Her vision includes launching Noirquility, an urban retreat and homestead bed-and-breakfast, continuing her mission to uplift her community.
The Spirit of (DE-FI)
Caressa’s story of resilience and perseverance is the beating heart of (DE-FI). By removing barriers and creating opportunities, she has built a brand that changes lives and strengthens communities. Through her grit, compassion, and determination, Caressa has proven that dreams don’t fail when supported, they thrive.
Join (DE-FI) in its mission to empower talent, uplift communities, and re(DE-FI)ne the fashion industry. Together, we can create a world where no dream is out of reach.
The Faces of (DE-FI) Global INC – Midwest Fashion Leadership
Emma Bambauer – Event & Program Support Intern
Emma supports (DE-FI)’s Dayton and Cincinnati fashion programs, coordinating logistics for runway events, incubator sessions, and community initiatives. She helps connect Midwest designers with opportunities for growth and exposure as our Graphic Design & Fashion Intern, where she’ll be focusing on the layout and design of (DE-FI)ance Ma
Emma supports (DE-FI)’s Dayton and Cincinnati fashion programs, coordinating logistics for runway events, incubator sessions, and community initiatives. She helps connect Midwest designers with opportunities for growth and exposure as our Graphic Design & Fashion Intern, where she’ll be focusing on the layout and design of (DE-FI)ance Magazine, (PARENTHETICALLY) Speaking Newsletter, and Cincinnati & Dayton Threads Boutique.
Based in New Bremen, Ohio, Emma is entering her final semester at Edison State Community College, pursuing a degree in Graphic Design. She’s also a proud 2024 graduate of Hocking College, where she earned her associate degree in Fashion Design and Retail Merchandising.
Emma is no stranger to (DE-FI), she’s been part of the #DatDEFIFam for several years through our partnership with Hocking College. She’s also the owner of Sprouting Positivity, an online boutique that she plans to expand into a physical storefront by June 2025. Outside of her growing business, Emma enjoys sewing, crocheting, and hands-on creative projects.
And #RumorHasIt pieces from her own fashion line may be featured in the Cincinnati and Dayton Threads Boutique & Showroom which relaunches in September during (DE-FI) Fashion Week!
Sandra "Imi" Bowden – Designer Development Advisor
Sandra Bowden, known by her brand name IMI, mentors emerging talent in (DE-FI)’s Fashion Incubator, guiding designers through brand building, production planning, and market preparation. Her work strengthens Midwest fashion entrepreneurship and creative sustainability. She is a force of creativity and resilience who has re(DE-FI)ned what
Sandra Bowden, known by her brand name IMI, mentors emerging talent in (DE-FI)’s Fashion Incubator, guiding designers through brand building, production planning, and market preparation. Her work strengthens Midwest fashion entrepreneurship and creative sustainability. She is a force of creativity and resilience who has re(DE-FI)ned what it means to follow your passion. As a fashion designer, pattern maker, artist, and home stager, Sandra is the visionary behind Other by IMI, a boutique and studio in downtown Fairborn offering shoes, clothes, custom design services, styling, art, alterations, and home staging.
Sandra’s journey to success is anything but conventional. Armed with a BFA in Fashion Design and over 15 years of industry experience, she spent 25 years working in the food industry to pay the bills, keeping her passion for fashion as a side hustle. In 2018, she made a bold decision to bet on herself, leaving behind restaurant culture to make her art and design her full-time career, a choice she proudly calls the best decision of her life.
Since then, Sandra has flourished. After six years of growing her business from home, she opened Other by IMI in April 2023, a space where her creative vision comes to life. Open Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m., the boutique is a hub of innovation, offering everything from unique fashion pieces to curated home staging solutions.
Sandra’s work is as diverse as her talents. From alterations and custom clothing to window displays and fashion shows, she approaches every project with precision and artistry. Her boutique is a testament to her multifaceted expertise, featuring not only her designs but also shoes, accessories, and artwork that reflect her distinctive style.
A partner of the (DE-FI), Sandra is actively expanding her business while staying booked months in advance. She excels at managing an extensive array of offerings, including trade shows, fairs, annual events, website development, marketing, and more. Her ability to seamlessly blend artistry with entrepreneurship has made her a standout in the fashion and creative industries.
Sandra’s story is one of transformation and (DE-FI)ance. She took a leap of faith, leaving behind a stable career to pursue her dreams, and she hasn’t looked back. With her sights set on continued growth and innovation, Sandra Bowden is proving that it’s never too late to follow your passion and build the life you’ve always envisioned.
Elliot Carlyle – Fashion Innovation Strategist & CFDA Pioneer
Known as “The brand. The voice.,” Elliot Carlyle doesn’t follow trends, he (DE-FI)nes the future. A powerhouse creative consultant and innovation strategist, he’s re(DE-FI)ning industries across fashion, entertainment, lifestyle, jewelry, and sports. Elliot is not here for the status quo, he’s here for the bold, the overlooked, and the on
Known as “The brand. The voice.,” Elliot Carlyle doesn’t follow trends, he (DE-FI)nes the future. A powerhouse creative consultant and innovation strategist, he’s re(DE-FI)ning industries across fashion, entertainment, lifestyle, jewelry, and sports. Elliot is not here for the status quo, he’s here for the bold, the overlooked, and the ones ready to build something real.
And now, he’s bringing that energy to Dayton and Cincinnati's fashion community.
As a trusted advisor for what will be Dayton’s first-ever fashion design school, Elliot, is helping shape a once-in-a-generation moment that will permanently alter the trajectory of our city. His leadership is more than symbolic, it’s structural. This is about creating a fashion infrastructure, not just a school. One rooted in innovation, entrepreneurship, and legacy.
The Visionary Behind CFDA Connects & CURRENT•LY™ GLOBAL INC.
Elliot’s legacy speaks volumes. As the creator of CFDA Connects, he spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative that united regional fashion organizations with global resources, uplifting overlooked communities and establishing a national platform for talent that would’ve otherwise gone unseen.
As the founder of CURRENT•LY™ Global, Inc., Elliot leads an international strategy agency that helps brands not just grow—but evolve. He builds movements, fosters legacy, and ensures that every story told is one that matters.
CURRENT•LY™ Global, Inc. Powers:
✔ Fashion
✔ Entertainment
✔ Lifestyle
✔ Jewelry
✔ Sports
A Monumental Moment for Dayton’s History and Future
With Elliot’s insight, (DE-FI) Global INC isn’t just launching a fashion school, we’re creating a cultural, economic, and educational milestone. This school will serve as a launchpad for future designers, engineers, and creatives, bringing career pathways, economic opportunity, and national visibility to Southwest Ohio like never before.
Elliot Carlyle is a force and his involvement in Dayton is nothing short of monumental.
Edward A. Dixon – Creative and Business Advisor
Edward A. Dixon is a Dayton native and cultural connector, weaving entrepreneurship and visual art into impactful creative experiences. As founder of the Edward A. Dixon Gallery in downtown Dayton, he merges global artistry with local access. His leadership enriches (DE‑FI)’s mission to elevate the humanities and creative infrastructure
Edward A. Dixon is a Dayton native and cultural connector, weaving entrepreneurship and visual art into impactful creative experiences. As founder of the Edward A. Dixon Gallery in downtown Dayton, he merges global artistry with local access. His leadership enriches (DE‑FI)’s mission to elevate the humanities and creative infrastructure of Dayton, Cincinnati, and beyond making the Midwest a hub for fashion and art innovation.
A lifelong art enthusiast, is a disruptor in the art world who blends entrepreneurial vision with a passion for connecting people through visual creativity. In 2017, Ed launched the Edward A. Dixon Gallery in downtown Dayton, Ohio, creating a space where global artistry meets local accessibility.
Before founding the gallery, Ed’s entrepreneurial journey spanned the music, film, and fashion industries. However, his deep love for visual art drove him to curate pieces from artists worldwide, showcasing their talent in dynamic, thought-provoking exhibitions. The gallery has hosted works by renowned artists like Sabrina Terence, Ronnie Williams, Erica Arntz, and the late Ron Campbell, animator for the legendary Beatles.
Ed is known for exhibitions that challenge perspectives, spark dialogue, and bring joy. Shows like We Are Doing It All Wrong and Joy, That’s Just What I Needed exemplify his ability to craft meaningful and transformative art experiences. His vision goes beyond curation, he’s created a gallery environment that’s inviting to everyone, from seasoned collectors to those exploring art for the first time.
A leader in the art community, Ed has served on judging panels for prestigious exhibitions and grants, including the Art of Soul Juried Art Show and the Culture Works Special Projects Grant. His involvement with the 8/4 Memorial Committee demonstrates his commitment to using art as a tool for healing and remembrance, honoring the lives lost in the tragic 2019 Dayton mass shooting.
Ed’s influence extends beyond his gallery walls. He serves on the Dayton Art Institute’s Collections Committee and the Executive Committee for the Dayton Sister City Committee, strengthening cultural connections at home and abroad. As an advisory board member for the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator, Ed supports the next generation of creative talent.
Never one to stand still, Ed is also a licensed realtor, a passionate investor, and a travel blogger who shares his unique perspective on the world. His ventures reflect his commitment to exploring, creating, and investing in opportunities that inspire connection and growth.
At the heart of Ed’s work is a mission to make art accessible and engaging for all. Through bold exhibitions, strategic collaborations, and entrepreneurial flair, Edward A. Dixon is not just a gallery owner, he’s a visionary shaping how communities experience and connect with art.
John Flynn – E-Commerce & Fashion Photographer
John Flynn is (DE-FI)’s e-commerce and fashion photographer, creating conversion-ready product images and brand visuals for Dayton, Cincinnati, and Midwest designers. From crisp catalog and on-figure e-com to editorial lookbooks, he delivers consistent lighting, color accuracy, and platform-optimized assets for Shopify, Amazon, and market
John Flynn is (DE-FI)’s e-commerce and fashion photographer, creating conversion-ready product images and brand visuals for Dayton, Cincinnati, and Midwest designers. From crisp catalog and on-figure e-com to editorial lookbooks, he delivers consistent lighting, color accuracy, and platform-optimized assets for Shopify, Amazon, and marketplaces. His work bridges runway to retail, turning creative vision into sales-driving content across web, social, and paid media.
John is not just a photographer, he’s a storyteller, a creator, and a rebel against the conventional. From the moment he picked up his first camera at the age of 10, John became captivated by the art of photography and the tools that bring images to life. Today, as the owner of Cloverstorm Photography, he is known for crafting visuals that are as authentic as they are striking.
John’s philosophy is rooted in defying societal standards of perfection. His goal is never to make his subjects look flawless but to make them look like the best versions of themselves—real, unique, and unapologetically true. By focusing on personality and character, John ensures every image carries the soul of its subject, rejecting the cookie-cutter ideals that strip individuality from the art of photography.
With a career that spans retail, brick-and-mortar business, and e-commerce, John brings a multifaceted perspective to his craft. He is a skilled manager and creative professional, proficient in tools like the Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, WordPress, and more. His technical expertise is matched by his artistic vision, making him a standout in both the artistic and commercial worlds.
John’s work has earned international acclaim, particularly in the competitive dance and pageant circuits, where his ability to capture movement, emotion, and authenticity has made him a sought-after name. His photography doesn’t just capture moments—it tells stories, celebrates individuality, and creates connections.
Through Cloverstorm Photography, John Flynn continues to disrupt traditional notions of beauty and artistry. With an unwavering focus on character and a bold approach to his craft, he is reshaping what it means to be seen, and remembered, in the modern world.
Cindy Gaboury – Community and Business Advisor
Cindy Gaboury is a visionary leader and community powerhouse with over four decades of entrepreneurial success and unwavering commitment to positive change in Dayton and Cincinnati. As the co-founder of Audio Etc. in Centerville, Ohio, alongside her husband Kirby, Cindy has spent 40 years re(DE-FI)ning excellence in business and building
Cindy Gaboury is a visionary leader and community powerhouse with over four decades of entrepreneurial success and unwavering commitment to positive change in Dayton and Cincinnati. As the co-founder of Audio Etc. in Centerville, Ohio, alongside her husband Kirby, Cindy has spent 40 years re(DE-FI)ning excellence in business and building connections that strengthen the community.
Affectionately known as “Mama Joy” within #DatDEFIFam, Cindy is a beacon of encouragement and inspiration. Her nurturing spirit, combined with her bold leadership, has made her a beloved mentor to countless individuals pursuing their dreams in business, faith, fashion, and beyond.
A trailblazer in her own right, Cindy’s influence extends far beyond the walls of her business. She serves on the boards of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, Kettering, Moraine, and Oakwood Chamber, Women in Business Networking (WiBN), Women in Christian Leadership, and the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator. Her relentless dedication to collaboration and innovation has made her an indispensable force for growth and transformation.
Cindy’s work reflects her deep-rooted belief in uplifting others, particularly women and underserved communities. As a member of organizations like the Centerville Noon Optimists, Home Builders Association, and Beavercreek Women’s League, she consistently brings people together to foster empowerment, education, and opportunity.
Her achievements are as bold as her approach. In 2022, Cindy was named one of Ohio’s Top 500 Most Influential Executives and received the Lydia Leadership Award from Women in Christian Leadership. In October 2023, she was honored with the Better Business Bureau Women in Business Networking Career Achievement Award, a testament to her enduring impact and leadership.
At her core, Cindy is a disruptor who challenges the status quo, combining entrepreneurial savvy with a passion for community growth. Whether she’s advocating for local businesses, mentoring future leaders, or driving innovation at (DE-FI), Cindy Gaboury "Mama Joy", is a force for (DE-FI)ance, determination, and positive change.
Nani Montanez – Model Development Specialist
Nani Montanez – Model Development Specialist
Nani trains aspiring and professional models through DE-FI’s Model Incubator, focusing on runway technique, commercial presence, and industry professionalism. She helps prepare Dayton and Cincinnati models for national opportunities. Creative director and Community organizer. Connector of nearly 200 creatives. Since launching DonDaDa Col
Nani trains aspiring and professional models through DE-FI’s Model Incubator, focusing on runway technique, commercial presence, and industry professionalism. She helps prepare Dayton and Cincinnati models for national opportunities. Creative director and Community organizer. Connector of nearly 200 creatives. Since launching DonDaDa Collective in late 2024, Nani Montanez has been on a mission to do more than just create art, she’s building space for it to matter. What started as a passion project has quickly grown into one of Dayton’s most impactful creative networks, rooted in healing, access, and community-led transformation.
With a background in modeling, dance, and acting dating back to 2016 in Milwaukee, Nani brings a multi-disciplinary edge to everything she touches. Through DonDaDa, she leads free portfolio-building workshops, coaches emerging talent, and is preparing to launch her first concept runway experience + industry panel, all designed to open doors for others, not just herself.
At the core of Nani’s work is a belief that creativity is a form of care, and that with the right resources, art can provide purpose, protection, and a path forward. She’s building more than platforms, she’s helping us to extend and build pipelines: for mentorship, for charitable giving, and for long-term success in an industry that too often overlooks the most powerful voices.
Now serving as a Model Coordinator for (DE-FI), Nani is bringing that same energy to our runways and incubator. She’s not just here to work, she’s here to listen, learn, and lead, pushing the culture forward while staying grounded in purpose. We’re proud to have her as part of the movement.
Fashion Week season is here, and YOU can be part of it!
(DE-FI) Fashion Week (Sept 16–20, 2025) The all-business Fashion Week. Go behind the scenes of the fashion industry with open houses, boutique rack drops, boardroom calls, and the building of a garment district. This is where fashion careers are grown.
The Inaugural Fashion Week of Cincinnati (Nov 5–8, 2025)
Now accepting Designer Invitational Requests. This year’s theme is Amplifying celebrating and elevating
Cincinnati’s incredible fashion talent.
Don’t wait. Spaces are limited.
Designers: Request your invitation today.
Attendees: Register now to secure your spot for (DE-FI) Fashion Week.