~ WEModel USA 2024 ~
by Dr. Marchette Richardson-Smith
Copa Style Magazine Fashion Events Correspondent
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Fashion Meets Philanthropy: The WEModel USA 2024 Fashion Show and Gala
In a remarkable convergence of fashion and advocacy, WEModel USA hosted its highly anticipated 'Stop the Traffick & Walk the Runway' Gala and Fashion Show on December 8, 2024, at The MGM National Harbor. The event's core mission was to raise awareness of the need to continue combating human trafficking. But more than that, it was a celebration of empowerment, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of community solidarity, making every attendee feel like a vital part of a larger movement.
Co-Hosts
The evening was co-hosted by two exceptional individuals: Kyle Arrington, NFL Super Bowl Champion and co-founder of the E.V.O.L.V.E. Foundation, and Erin Como, an Emmy-nominated host and reporter with Fox 5 News. These accomplished figures have demonstrated a commitment to using their platforms for positive change. Kyle Arrington's E.V.O.L.V.E. Foundation focuses on empowering underserved youth by providing opportunities for physical, mental, technical, and economic growth. Through her work with E. Como Media, Erin Como champions social justice and brings critical issues to the forefront of public consciousness. Their shared dedication to fostering meaningful community change underscores the event's significance.
Walk the Runway
Attendees witnessed an extraordinary runway presentation featuring collections by renowned designers and emerging talents. The designs embodied strength, empowerment, and resilience, reflecting the event's theme of transformation and hope. Four talented designers contributed to this fantastic event.
Ireana Levkovivh
Irena Levkovich is a distinguished fiber artist and fashion designer renowned for her eco-friendly, handcrafted garments under the "WoolWonders." Her creations emphasize natural materials like silk and wool, reflecting her commitment to environmental sustainability and harmonious living. Her collections have been showcased at prominent events, including DC Fashion Week's International Couture Collections show in 2015, held at the Carnegie Library in Washington, DC. Additionally, her work was featured in the District of Fashion Runway Show, presented by the DowntownDC Business Improvement District, highlighting her influence in the fashion industry.
Farah Abazary
Farah Abazary, the founder of Silhouette Bridal and Formal, has dedicated over 30 years to the bridal and fashion industry. With a bachelor’s degree in design, her passion for dresses stems from her mother's influence, and through Silhouette, she continues to honor and carry forward her family's legacy.
Gerta Cami
Gerta Cami is a distinguished fashion designer specializing in handcrafted, custom-made dresses and suits for children. Her brand creates unique garments for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and proms. Each piece is meticulously crafted to make every child feel like a prince or princess. Cami's design philosophy emphasizes personalization and attention to detail, ensuring that each outfit reflects her young clients' styles and preferences. She collaborates closely with clients to bring their visions to life, often involving them in the design process to create truly bespoke pieces. Through her dedication to quality craftsmanship and personalized service, Gerta Cami continues to significantly impact children's fashion, turning dreams into reality for her young clientele.
Malcolm Staples
Closing designer, Malcolm Staples is a distinguished fashion designer and bespoke clothier based in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area. In 2009, he founded Malcolm's Custom Made To Fit, with his inaugural commission designing suits for his nephew, LaMarr Woodley, of the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers. Influenced by his stylish grandfather and the elegance of the 1950s, Staples is renowned for his meticulously tailored suits for both men and women. His clientele includes celebrities, media personalities, politicians, clergy, professional athletes, and entertainers. Notable clients feature Bishop T.D. Jakes, NBA Hall of Famer Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors. Staples' designs have graced over 80 national and international publication covers and featured in over 140 magazine editorials. His work has appeared in Essence, Black Enterprise, Upscale, and Modern Luxury. His accolades include winning the Fashion and Beauty Olympics Designer Showcase, sponsored by Fashion Avenue News Magazine, and being named Designer of the Year by LH Luxe and the Success in The Arts (SITA) organization.
The President's Lifetime Achievement Award
Six amazing women were awarded The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Lizeth Alvarado, a philanthropist and active board member of "We Will Survive Cancer," a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. She hosts the webcast/podcast show "The Laws of Epic Beauty," focusing on inner beauty and self-empowerment. Her dedication to community service includes organizing events like the "Epic Beauty Day of Hope," offering complimentary restorative procedures for cancer survivors. Ann Butenas, a writer and speaker. Over the past three decades, she has been published thousands of times, including hundreds of cover stories featuring high-profile interviews with notable figures. Ann has also served as editor and publisher of KC Metro Women Magazine. She is currently a senior writer for several prominent publications. Mielanie Dua, an actress known as the Ambassador of Good Will in the 2021 television series "Hollywood in Washington, DC”. She also serves as the Chairwoman and Events Coordinator for Mrs. Tourism USA. This organization empowers individuals to advocate for the voiceless. Additionally, Melanie Dua maintains a presence on YouTube, where she shares videos with her audience. Tashonia Blackwell, Michelle Valorae, Warline Bryant, and Erin Como also received The President's Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Pre-Show
The pre-show was amazing. The MGM Grand Ballroom at National Harbor is breathtaking, a versatile and elegant setting for various events. The space features contemporary deco, one wall of the ballroom is composed entirely of glass, providing natural light and panoramic views of the Potomac River. Elegant, circular chandeliers and customizable lighting options contribute to the sophisticated ambiance of space. The guests were dressed to the nines. I met many interesting attendees. I also saw Mikell Reed Carroll, Helene France, Dr. Gloria Crosslin, Anna Dolan, and Jehnae Linkins, beautiful Queen who I have had the pleasure of competing with. Thirty-two Queens and One King were on the red carpet. Wes Moore is the 63rd Governor of Maryland, Mayor Murel Bowser, and Mayor Brandon Scott are huge supporters of WEModels and supporters of the event.
The Master of Ceremonies
Patricia A. Watts is a distinguished professional with a multifaceted career spanning military service, technology, and advocacy. She is the founder and owner of WEModel USA, a model search company based in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area, dedicated to empowering women and raising awareness about human trafficking. “Stop the Traffick & Walk the Runway" Gala and Fashion Show is one of the organizations signature events. The gala dinner, keynote speakers and ambiance were amazing. Patricia is a gift to society, and it was my pleasure to meet her Sunday and cover this incredible event.
In a remarkable convergence of fashion and advocacy, WEModel USA hosted its highly anticipated 'Stop the Traffick & Walk the Runway' Gala and Fashion Show on December 8, 2024, at The MGM National Harbor. The event's core mission was to raise awareness of the need to continue combating human trafficking. But more than that, it was a celebration of empowerment, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of community solidarity, making every attendee feel like a vital part of a larger movement.
Co-Hosts
The evening was co-hosted by two exceptional individuals: Kyle Arrington, NFL Super Bowl Champion and co-founder of the E.V.O.L.V.E. Foundation, and Erin Como, an Emmy-nominated host and reporter with Fox 5 News. These accomplished figures have demonstrated a commitment to using their platforms for positive change. Kyle Arrington's E.V.O.L.V.E. Foundation focuses on empowering underserved youth by providing opportunities for physical, mental, technical, and economic growth. Through her work with E. Como Media, Erin Como champions social justice and brings critical issues to the forefront of public consciousness. Their shared dedication to fostering meaningful community change underscores the event's significance.
Walk the Runway
Attendees witnessed an extraordinary runway presentation featuring collections by renowned designers and emerging talents. The designs embodied strength, empowerment, and resilience, reflecting the event's theme of transformation and hope. Four talented designers contributed to this fantastic event.
Ireana Levkovivh
Irena Levkovich is a distinguished fiber artist and fashion designer renowned for her eco-friendly, handcrafted garments under the "WoolWonders." Her creations emphasize natural materials like silk and wool, reflecting her commitment to environmental sustainability and harmonious living. Her collections have been showcased at prominent events, including DC Fashion Week's International Couture Collections show in 2015, held at the Carnegie Library in Washington, DC. Additionally, her work was featured in the District of Fashion Runway Show, presented by the DowntownDC Business Improvement District, highlighting her influence in the fashion industry.
Farah Abazary
Farah Abazary, the founder of Silhouette Bridal and Formal, has dedicated over 30 years to the bridal and fashion industry. With a bachelor’s degree in design, her passion for dresses stems from her mother's influence, and through Silhouette, she continues to honor and carry forward her family's legacy.
Gerta Cami
Gerta Cami is a distinguished fashion designer specializing in handcrafted, custom-made dresses and suits for children. Her brand creates unique garments for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and proms. Each piece is meticulously crafted to make every child feel like a prince or princess. Cami's design philosophy emphasizes personalization and attention to detail, ensuring that each outfit reflects her young clients' styles and preferences. She collaborates closely with clients to bring their visions to life, often involving them in the design process to create truly bespoke pieces. Through her dedication to quality craftsmanship and personalized service, Gerta Cami continues to significantly impact children's fashion, turning dreams into reality for her young clientele.
Malcolm Staples
Closing designer, Malcolm Staples is a distinguished fashion designer and bespoke clothier based in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area. In 2009, he founded Malcolm's Custom Made To Fit, with his inaugural commission designing suits for his nephew, LaMarr Woodley, of the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers. Influenced by his stylish grandfather and the elegance of the 1950s, Staples is renowned for his meticulously tailored suits for both men and women. His clientele includes celebrities, media personalities, politicians, clergy, professional athletes, and entertainers. Notable clients feature Bishop T.D. Jakes, NBA Hall of Famer Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors. Staples' designs have graced over 80 national and international publication covers and featured in over 140 magazine editorials. His work has appeared in Essence, Black Enterprise, Upscale, and Modern Luxury. His accolades include winning the Fashion and Beauty Olympics Designer Showcase, sponsored by Fashion Avenue News Magazine, and being named Designer of the Year by LH Luxe and the Success in The Arts (SITA) organization.
The President's Lifetime Achievement Award
Six amazing women were awarded The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Lizeth Alvarado, a philanthropist and active board member of "We Will Survive Cancer," a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. She hosts the webcast/podcast show "The Laws of Epic Beauty," focusing on inner beauty and self-empowerment. Her dedication to community service includes organizing events like the "Epic Beauty Day of Hope," offering complimentary restorative procedures for cancer survivors. Ann Butenas, a writer and speaker. Over the past three decades, she has been published thousands of times, including hundreds of cover stories featuring high-profile interviews with notable figures. Ann has also served as editor and publisher of KC Metro Women Magazine. She is currently a senior writer for several prominent publications. Mielanie Dua, an actress known as the Ambassador of Good Will in the 2021 television series "Hollywood in Washington, DC”. She also serves as the Chairwoman and Events Coordinator for Mrs. Tourism USA. This organization empowers individuals to advocate for the voiceless. Additionally, Melanie Dua maintains a presence on YouTube, where she shares videos with her audience. Tashonia Blackwell, Michelle Valorae, Warline Bryant, and Erin Como also received The President's Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Pre-Show
The pre-show was amazing. The MGM Grand Ballroom at National Harbor is breathtaking, a versatile and elegant setting for various events. The space features contemporary deco, one wall of the ballroom is composed entirely of glass, providing natural light and panoramic views of the Potomac River. Elegant, circular chandeliers and customizable lighting options contribute to the sophisticated ambiance of space. The guests were dressed to the nines. I met many interesting attendees. I also saw Mikell Reed Carroll, Helene France, Dr. Gloria Crosslin, Anna Dolan, and Jehnae Linkins, beautiful Queen who I have had the pleasure of competing with. Thirty-two Queens and One King were on the red carpet. Wes Moore is the 63rd Governor of Maryland, Mayor Murel Bowser, and Mayor Brandon Scott are huge supporters of WEModels and supporters of the event.
The Master of Ceremonies
Patricia A. Watts is a distinguished professional with a multifaceted career spanning military service, technology, and advocacy. She is the founder and owner of WEModel USA, a model search company based in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area, dedicated to empowering women and raising awareness about human trafficking. “Stop the Traffick & Walk the Runway" Gala and Fashion Show is one of the organizations signature events. The gala dinner, keynote speakers and ambiance were amazing. Patricia is a gift to society, and it was my pleasure to meet her Sunday and cover this incredible event.
