MEET OUR FOUNDER

Who is she?

     Since the age of 5, growing up in my North Philadelphia row home, fashion has been an integral part of my life.  Like yesterday, I can recall sitting at the kitchen counter drawing 'sketches' and asking my Mother if that would be something in which I could do forever.  Lovingly she looked into my eyes and reassuringly said "yes, they are called fashion designers."  Ever since that moment, because she said I could, I have believed I will.  

 

     While completing my undergraduate studies of International Marketing w/ a Concentration in Information Systems and a Minor in Sociology at the College of William & Mary, I broadened my horizons and completed an array of Study Aboard programs in Florence, Milan, and Paris where I had the chance to attend Parsons Paris School of Design.

 

      Post graduation, I enjoyed the blessings of working with clothing brands such as Shmack Clothing, Imperial Junkie, Azure Denim, AKOO Clothing Brand, Play Cloths, Perry Ellis, & Laundry by Shelli Segal.  After refining my skills in design and fashion business acumen via employment I launched my company House of 7 Jewels which consists of various brands such as MEMI, Kasa by MEMI, Bloom Rentals, SDA, and more to come. 

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Why she does it?

     I love fashion but I love philantrophy even more; so, in 2013 post the return from attending a fashion tradeshow in Las Vegas with my employer at the time (AKOO Clothing Brand & Play Cloths) I curated the idea of establishing a fashion design camp.  With the reflection of my own journey into fashion industry at the forefront of my mind, I decided that I would make this camp the opportunity that I never had as a female youth.  

 

     Sketching Dreams's primary vision would be to empower, encourage, and engage female youth whom possessed a passion for fashion design and the creative industry with the knowledge, resources, and guidance needed to transform their dreams into a successful career reality.

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Where she does it?

SDA is headquartered in the creative heart of Norfolk, VA. By 2025, we hope to be launched and established in at least five other states across the nation.

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When she does it?

The Academy is committed to providing today's female youth with the skills needed to creatively lead tomorrow all year long.  Each year, SDA will launch its new academic year in August during the 4-day Summer Camp.  Throughout the year, future design stars can enroll and enjoy a variety of programs available such as the SDA Mentorship to continue nurturing their creative love for fashion design and arts.

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How she does it?

God.  Sponsorships.  Volunteers. Donations.  And lots of planning!