God, who is the bread of life, the creator of the universe, and the solution to our problems has helped me in many ways than I could imagine. This includes moments when I was at my lowest and underestimated his plans for me, or doubted myself when I became upset because my plans did not work out as I hoped it would. After reflecting on such hardships, I have learned that it was God’s plan all along that blessed me with what I needed and when I would need it the most. His plans for me were always greater than that of my own. During my lifetime, he stated that I will face trials and tribulations, but promised to always be by my side the entire journey; never leave me nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5). He already knows that the path I will travel would have complications including delays. All of which is working in my favor. He encourages me to remain firm in him through faith and prayer as I navigate the challenges in my life now and in the near future. Likewise, God serves a greater purpose in my life as I pursue my future goals and endeavors. Becoming a fashion designer and businesswoman requires developing necessary technical and interpersonal skills to create, operate, and establish a fashion label. All of which involves hard work and determination, but, most importantly, having faith in my Lord and Savior who is Christ. As previously stated, trusting in him and his plans for me is better than to lean on my own understanding. He reminds me that no man or challenge is too big for him to handle. He is Lord of Lords and King of Kings of whom strengthens me. With this, I am encouraged to seek his word daily and live righteously according to his principles. Moreover, to prioritize in seeking and fulfilling my true purpose in life that he has called me to be. In other words, trusting the Lord and revolving my life around him would not only aid me in my career, but in helping me discover how I can best represent him and the kingdom in his image through my works. To me, my faith in God is key to being successful in life and not just my career by leading as an example of God’s word and truth, and encouraging others to do the same.

As she walks into a room, she commands attention through her presence. No hype or provocative clothing. Only silence. She is a fearless young woman who redefines the odds of every negative judgement or underestimation that was cast upon her. A woman who values her brains more than her sex appeal to attract attention in a noble way that aligns with God’s principles. For me, these are the attributes that define the “IT Girl” persona. As a future fashion designer and businesswoman, I intend to apply a set of guidelines (rules) of my own just as Ms. Nurse to navigate the ups and downs of the fashion industry and establish my brand’s identity: keep the faith, design to make a difference, and cultivate community. I believe that Ms. Nurse encouraged young women to establish boundaries to protect their ideas and interests while staying true to themselves. To become their own “superwoman” in a fashionable sense and a reigning corporate leader. I, too, will strive to become my own “superwoman” to achieve my goals and make a positive impact on this world. Throughout my life, there were many times where I faced adversity. All of which involved school bullying, and being raised by a single mom of two. I have learned that it takes determination, hard-work, flexibility, but most importantly, having faith in God, to overcome the storm. If anything, I have learned to accept such obstacles as a test of my faith, physical strength, and mentality; all of which I must have to overcome the trials and tribulations of this world. In the song, “It’s a Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World” by James Brown, he stated, “This is a man’s world, but it wouldn’t be nothing, nothing without a woman or a girl…”. In other words, a man cannot function without a woman no matter how rich or dominant he may perceive to be. A woman has greater value just as a man and much to offer besides sex that includes serving as an emotional support system, providing intellectual advice, and inspiring the foundation of various global networks, especially fashion. As Ms. Nurse, I hope to serve as a beacon of light to encourage women to pursue their dreams, and to not be discouraged to take-on higher roles reserved for men in a world that values a gender-norm society. Moreover, I hope to impact my community by promoting sustainability through my brand’s merchandise and its activities. This includes incorporating natural fibers and recycled materials into my designs, and replacing equipment that burns fossil fuels with renewable energy sources. I believe that it is important to prioritize health, safety, and public awareness in such a toxic and wasteful industry. Proposing alternative solutions for production is the ultimate goal in designing fashion that is fun, eco-friendly, and forward-thinking. As Ms. Nurse, I hope that my efforts will inspire the next generation of young women to be the best version of themselves.

During the first week of school, I met a girl who would eventually become my best friend with just one simple act of kindness. It was the first day of 10th grade. I will never forget how uneasy I felt about who my new teachers were and if I would make any friends. I managed to keep my composure till third block, which was English. Our teacher, Mrs. Byrd, gave the class an assignment that required everyone to work in a group. Once she stated this, I had a knot in the pit of my stomach. I hated group projects with a passion because I never had much luck to socially connect with others. Unfortunately, this time it felt different. In my group, there were two other students besides myself. I realized that one of the girls was new. As we began to discuss and work on the project amongst ourselves, I began to grow closer to her. Her name is Kira and she left Ukraine for personal matters. I also learned that she had a language barrier which limited her from speaking and writing in as much English. Therefore, I did not hesitate to translate some of the words for her to help her develop a better understanding of what the class was reading. After English class was over, I was eager to get to lunch just as everyone else as I was hungry. It did not surprise me that I sat at a table by myself while everyone else had friend groups who they could socialize with. Well, I spoke too soon. Just when all of my hopes were down, I had faith again once I saw Kira. She, too, had no one to sit with as she was new and given the fact that I was most likely the only student who was interested in getting to know her. To be honest, it felt good to finally have someone to socialize with. As the school days grew longer, so did our friendship. Surprisingly, we both were on the school’s Cross-Country team, despite continuing to run, as much as we complained to each other about our legs burning. It’s amazing how we became friends in 10th grade and have remained so ever since. One thing that I learned is that God will send others to cross your paths for a specific reason. This includes establishing meaningful and long-lasting relationships with others who bring value to your life in some way. In this event, I believe that taking the initiative to help someone else such as Kira opened me to a friendship that I thought I would never have.