In 2020, I founded the Chicago Fashion Coalition (CFC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to unify Chicago’s fragmented fashion scene. Starting with a digital directory that connected 100+ designers, artists, and small businesses to end-to-end resources, I prioritized elevating underrepresented voices—especially people of color and women—and built both online and in-person spaces for collaboration, including curated panels, networking nights, pop-up showcases, and an annual gala.

Since its inception, CFC has driven hundreds of connections leading to new partnerships and projects, and grew a network of 500+ members. The organization expanded to partner with the CFDA, host large-scale fashion shows, and play a key role in Chicago’s first official Fashion Week—cementing its role as a catalyst for the city’s fashion industry.