Resilience, faith, and the conviction that there is meaning even in adversity have all influenced my path. My name is Tia Wingo, and I currently attend Alabama A&M University, studying Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Apparel Design and Merchandising. I hope to be a creative director within the fashion industry, using art and design to tell stories of strength, culture, and healing. But the path that has brought me here has not been easy. I grew up moving around a lot for my dad's job. I was born in El Paso, Texas, and then later moved to D'Iberville, Mississippi. With each move came a restart of everything: new schools, new friends, and new environments. While the move helped me adjust to lots of things rather quickly, it also instilled deep anxiety within me over change and not fitting in. For a very long period of time, I felt unseen and like I needed to prove my worth through perfection. I worked hard both academically and creatively, but underlying that drive was fear—fear of failure, judgment, and just not being enough. Anxiety became very difficult for me to handle in high school, when it felt like expectations began to grow heavier. I had started to withdraw, overthink every decision, and lose all confidence in my own competence. There were days I wanted to give up on my dreams altogether. But through faith, supportive mentors, and my determination, I began to fight back. I sought therapy and learned tools that helped me face my fears rather than hide from them. Each time I overcame a small challenge—like presenting my work in class or leading a group project—I felt somewhat stronger. Those experiences taught me that courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act despite it. As time passed, it slowly occurred to me that what I thought was a weakness had actually made me more compassionate and self-aware. Anxiety taught me to realize the silent battles of others and gave me this drive to create spaces in fashion and life where people feel noticed, understood, and valued. This idea then became the bedrock of my leadership style and the inspiration behind all my career goals. I have learned leadership and service at Alabama A&M. I volunteer to participate in community service projects through campus organizations, such as assisting with clothing drives and mentoring younger students interested in design. Leadership is about serving others, listening, and setting the example with consistency and kindness. Anthony Belliamy's life embodies the qualities of faith, integrity, and courage, enabling him to overcome adversity and inspire others. To me, fashion is much more than art; it is a form of communication and a way of empowering. I strive to establish a sustainable brand of fashion promoting modesty and creativity by embracing diversity in culture. This will show that sustainability and style can coexist by merging traditional craftsmanship with modern design. As a long-term creative direction, the goal will be to spearhead teams in designing with a purpose: utilizing fashion in ways that develop self-confidence, mental well-being, and social impact. The difficulties I have gone through have shaped the way I do everything in my life now. They have taught me patience, empathy, and the power of resilience. When things seem otherwise, I remind myself that I have overcome before—and that perseverance is a lifelong skill. I also believe that every setback carries a lesson if you're willing to learn from it. My journey through anxiety taught me to believe in progress, not perfection; to use my voice even when it trembles; and to dream boldly, even when I'm afraid. This scholarship would help me financially and symbolize my strength from my struggles. It would allow me to continue my studies with less worry and more focus on creating art that inspires others to rise above their hardships. Much like Anthony Bellamy, I want my life's work to reflect faith, purpose, and perseverance—to prove that no matter how difficult the path, courage and character can light the way forward.

Living​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ with anxiety has been the hardest side of my life, but it has also been the most crucial and rewarding. In fact, for a long time, I believed that anxiety was the factor that was isolating me, making me miss out on things, and even doubting my own capabilities. However, after some time, I found out that it could actually be a positive thing for me, the source of my being stronger, more self-aware, and nicer to others. During my high school years, I had my first experience of anxiety. I was under a lot of pressure most of the time because I wanted to do everything perfectly, I was anxious about ever making a mistake, and I was continually worried about the future. Initially, I tried to conceal it because I thought I must always be strong and in control. The problem was that by pretending everything was perfect, I was worsening the situation. It was not until the moment when I spoke to my family and asked for help that I realized seeking help is not a sign of weakness. By far, therapy and faith have been very significant factors in my healing. Therapy showed me ways to control my thoughts, it helped me to learn different kinds of healthy limits, and it taught me to practice mindfulness, especially when I’m feeling anxious. I connected with my faith that told me my troubles were not meaningless, but rather they were making me more patient, understanding, and grounded. Healing has been tough, but every little step I’ve taken has reminded me that progress matters more than perfection. Through the anxiety, it was hard for me to set a path for school and work. I am at Alabama A&M University doing a degree in Family and Consumer Sciences, selling Apparel Design and Merchandising as a major. After that, I want to be a creative director in the fashion industry, as I want to use design as a means to communicate, give me power, and heal me. Basically, fashion is, in my opinion, much more than just clothes. It’s one way we can tell stories, build self-esteem, and meet new people. I want to create designs that provide the feeling of being seen and valued to people, especially those who face mental health obstacles or have a low self-image. Mental health is something that I also care deeply about. What I have slowly realized is that just the thought of anxiety, depression, or self-doubt silently plagues many people, and what they really need is someone who would tell them that they are not alone. I want to be a creator that in the future promotes self-acceptance, confidence, and compassion through the medium of my platform so that my creative pieces and advocacy work can synergize. I want to be able to reach out to people and tell them that being strong does not necessarily mean being tough and that the two things can actually be compatible, like, for example, in social media, workshops, or fashion campaigns. If I receive the scholarship, I will be able to keep studying without having to worry about money all the time and thus keep my focus on my goals. More than that, it would be a wonderful way to remember Ella’s courage, fighting spirit, and strength. Ella’s problems, just like mine, could have been the things that broke her, but instead they taught her to be strong, and she learned the importance of never giving up on herself or her dreams. Still, anxiety stays with me, and yet I no longer feel shame about it. It constantly serves as a reminder of my past successes and the challenging nature of daily progress.

Math is one of my favorite subjects because it challenges me to think in multiple ways simultaneously. Most people think of math as a subject that deals with numbers and equations. To me, though, it's a way to talk about patterns and how to figure things out. It teaches you how to be disciplined and patient by having you examine a challenging problem, break it down into smaller steps, and persist until you find the right answer. That process is useful in both school and in life. I study Family and Consumer Sciences at Alabama A&M University, where I focus on Apparel Design and Merchandising. Math is a big part of my life. When I make clothes, I use math to figure out how big things are, scale patterns, and figure out proportions. Merchandising needs to know how to set prices, budget for materials, and keep an eye on market trends. Fashion creativity wouldn't be as organized or precise without math. I love that math combines art and logic. It helps creativity find balance and direction. Math​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ is awesome because it demonstrates that there are many different ways to reach the result. Math is teaching me that it is still essential to keep trying even if I am dealing with a problem from the real world or an equation. You can make a mistake, retrace your steps, and still end up with the correct answer. That particular lesson is similar to what I experienced as a student: I had to keep trying, but every time I was getting closer to success.

When I moved from El Paso, Texas, to D’Iberville, Mississippi, because my father got a new job, I was able to see how different communities are from one another but also how there is some commonality between them, such as their connection, creativity, and need for opportunity. Fashion brings everyone, or well, most people, together, and that is one way of expressing who you are, how you are, or how confident you are, but fashion is also incredibly wasteful, so I would love to help my community with my ideas in one way or another, perhaps fashion, leadership, teaching, or who knows! Currently, I am attending Alabama A&M University, pursuing an undergraduate degree in Family & Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Apparel Design & Merchandising. My ultimate academic and professional objective is to become a creative director who thinks ahead, is meaningful, and is innovative in his or her pursuit of creating ideas. A creative director, from my perspective, is an individual who would be able to express the narratives of sustainability, cultures, or communities with the help of fashion. The intention is to spread the idea that good design will make people feel good and beautiful, hence encouraging them to think about how they impact the world surrounding them. However, if I had the opportunity, I would love to conduct some workshops on useful things such as sewing, upcycling, or creating products that will last longer. Many people desire to be fashionable, but they are often unaware that it is possible to be stylish while also being environmentally conscious. This is an important element of my personal mission because, personally, I believe that fashion is also about empowerment. When I was younger, I did not always wear the latest fashion styles, but I was able to learn how to wear the clothes that I had, which taught me that fashion is all about how you wear the clothes, because confidence comes from within, which is why I want to teach the people in my community how to wear the clothes that they already have. I also value spending time with others beyond my academic passions. During the time I was an Alabama A&M student, I was involved in many community service projects, ranging from holding drives for clothes to developing projects for sustainability on campus. Some of these projects involved helping families and other college students in the community. The experiences I have had make me understand that true growth is possible by serving others, just as was seen with the service to others by Henry Walker Sr. This scholarship will go toward allowing me to gain more education, improve my skills, and become an even better designer, leader, and creative force in the world of fashion design. With the help of this scholarship, perhaps I will be able to fulfill my dream of being the creative director who not only leads the fashionable world but also encourages others to have an even clearer perspective on fashion and their communities. Fashion, in my opinion, is all about how sustainability, creativity, and service can be combined. My view of the future is one in which people, the world, and future generations will be able to develop their own ideas about fashion sustainability.

To me an "It" girl is a woman who strides into the room with confidence, leads gracefully and exists with purpose. She inspires others, loves herself and leaves an unforgettable stamp not just on her look but on her character. Tamika Angelica Nurse was that. She was not simply fashion forward—she was forward thinking, faith driven and committed to empowering women. As an aspiring Christian woman seeking Apparel Design and Merchandising at Alabama A&M University I desire to follow in her footsteps by creating a fashion career built on purpose, service and integrity. Fashion to me encompasses something more than clothes—it's a change agent. Growing up in the US, I had been exposed to trends but became aware of the damage caused by fast fashion: waste, unethical labor and harm to the environment. If I were to venture into this business, I knew that I needed to stand for something different. My dream is to establish a sustainable fashion business that not only creates beautiful clothes but also inspires women to honor their identity and worth by what they wear and do. As Tamika, I wish to have faith in the use of fashion as a means of impacting and inspiring others. It is for this reason that I have made my own "rules" in fashion that reflect my values and belief system: walk in truth, lead with love, create with purpose. My aspiration is to utilize my platform for mentoring young women, specifically from underrepresented populations, and informing them that they can be bold, beautiful, and business-savvy, all while staying grounded within themselves. Overcoming adversity has characterized me. Becoming fashion-savvy was not easily accepted by my circle of peers, and I've broken through disbelief and discouragement. Prayer, faith and persistence held on to me as I stayed firm on my passion. I've learned to embrace and pursue my vocation and treat every challenge as a driving force. I also give back through volunteering, especially at community events and church activities, since service is a part of my walk with Christ and my promise of lifting others. In the future, I envision creating spaces—both physical and virtual—where young women can learn fashion design, entrepreneurship, and self-esteem. I would like to spend my days writing books, teaching workshops, and mentoring girls who don't yet know their power. Like Tamika Nurse, I would want to be a light and a leader—a "It" girl who not only dresses the part but lives it with faith, passion, and purpose. This would help me.

Pursuing Higher Education to Promote Sustainable Fashion and Entrepreneurship After graduating from Alabama A&M University with a Bachelor of Arts in Family and Consumer Sciences focused on Apparel Design and Merchandising, I intend to continue my education by earning a master's degree in sustainable fashion, fashion business, or an equivalent certificate in ethical design and entrepreneurship. Continuing education is crucial to my ability to build leadership, marketing, and business strategy skills and expand my technical knowledge. I'm excited about the skills I’m picking up to help me start and grow a fashion brand that cares about social issues. These skills will allow me to launch a socially responsible fashion brand. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I have become more aware of the fashion industry’s flaws, especially sustainability, ethical labor, and cultural sensitivity. Although my undergraduate degree has given me a good foundation in consumer culture and fashion design, I know I need more than creativity to build a brand and a mission-driven business. It requires in-depth knowledge of supply chain management, branding, capital, eco-friendly material, and global market trends. A master’s or post-graduate certificate will be given to me. I am especially interested in programs combining fashion innovation with applied business knowledge, such as a Master of Fine Arts in Fashion Design and Society, a Master of Professional Studies in Fashion Management, or a Sustainable Supply Chain Management certificate. My ultimate goal is to create garments that respect people, cultures, and the planet, and these programs will allow me to focus on classes like digital design, sustainable sourcing, and circular fashion. I’m especially interested in programs that combine fashion innovation with applied business knowledge, such as Master of Fine Arts in Fashion Design and Society, Master of Professional Studies in Fashion Management, or a certificate in Sustainable Supply Chain Management. My long-term goal is to create garments that respect people, cultures, and the planet, and these programs will allow me to focus on digital design, sustainable sourcing, and circular fashion. My commitment to lifelong learning is very personal. As a self-made college student and aspiring entrepreneur, I believe education can empower people and make them independent. I am one step closer to achieving my dream of changing people’s lives, not just the fashion industry, with each course I take and each skill I acquire. I want to create something worthwhile that speaks for my values and inspires others to dream big and live meaningful lives. I can start and develop a socially responsible fashion brand using these skills. I have become more conscious of the fashion industry’s shortcomings during my undergraduate studies, especially sustainability, ethical labor practices, and cultural sensitivity. While I have a good background in fashion design and consumer culture, creating a brand and mission-driven company takes more than vision. It takes global market trends, eco-friendly materials, branding, capital, and supply chain management. I will gain management expertise through a master’s degree or post-graduate certificate.

Pursuing Higher Education to Promote Sustainable Fashion and Entrepreneurship After graduating from Alabama A&M University with a Bachelor of Arts in Family and Consumer Sciences focused on Apparel Design and Merchandising, I intend to continue my education by earning a master's degree in sustainable fashion, fashion business, or an equivalent certificate in ethical design and entrepreneurship. Continuing education is crucial to my ability to build leadership, marketing, and business strategy skills and expand my technical knowledge. I'm excited about the skills I’m picking up to help me start and grow a fashion brand that cares about social issues. These skills will allow me to launch a socially responsible fashion brand. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I have become more aware of the fashion industry’s flaws, especially sustainability, ethical labor, and cultural sensitivity. Although my undergraduate degree has given me a good foundation in consumer culture and fashion design, I know I need more than creativity to build a brand and a mission-driven business. It requires in-depth knowledge of supply chain management, branding, capital, eco-friendly material, and global market trends. A master’s or post-graduate certificate will be given to me. I am especially interested in programs combining fashion innovation with applied business knowledge, such as a Master of Fine Arts in Fashion Design and Society, a Master of Professional Studies in Fashion Management, or a Sustainable Supply Chain Management certificate. My ultimate goal is to create garments that respect people, cultures, and the planet, and these programs will allow me to focus on classes like digital design, sustainable sourcing, and circular fashion. I’m especially interested in programs that combine fashion innovation with applied business knowledge, such as Master of Fine Arts in Fashion Design and Society, Master of Professional Studies in Fashion Management, or a certificate in Sustainable Supply Chain Management. My long-term goal is to create garments that respect people, cultures, and the planet, and these programs will allow me to focus on digital design, sustainable sourcing, and circular fashion. My commitment to lifelong learning is very personal. As a self-made college student and aspiring entrepreneur, I believe education can empower people and make them independent. I am one step closer to achieving my dream of changing people’s lives, not just the fashion industry, with each course I take and each skill I acquire. I want to create something worthwhile that speaks for my values and inspires others to dream big and live meaningful lives. I can start and develop a socially responsible fashion brand using these skills. I have become more conscious of the fashion industry’s shortcomings during my undergraduate studies, especially sustainability, ethical labor practices, and cultural sensitivity. While I have a good background in fashion design and consumer culture, creating a brand and mission-driven company takes more than vision. It takes global market trends, eco-friendly materials, branding, capital, and supply chain management. I will gain management expertise through a master’s degree or post-graduate certificate.

Using Empowerment, Education, and Fashion to Strengthen My Community If given the chance, I would use sustainable fashion to empower the local economy and educate people. Through skill-building workshops, mentorship, and innovative programs in ethical design, entrepreneurship, and environmental awareness, I hope to launch a community-based fashion program. In addition to opening up job opportunities, this would help people—especially women and young people—see fashion as a tool for growth, identity, and constructive change rather than just a means of getting dressed As an Alabama A&M University student pursuing a degree in Apparel Design and Merchandising with a focus on Family and Consumer Sciences, I've come to realize how amazing fashion is as a vehicle for social change and self-expression. However, I've also seen that people in low-income neighborhoods lack access to resources, mentorship, and innovative programs that foster design or entrepreneurship. I want this to change. Closing the opportunity gap and promoting fashion as a possible career path and a tool for community empowerment are my objectives. Important skills like sewing, computer-aided design, pattern making, upcycling, and sustainable production would be taught to students in my ideal program. Workshops on branding and ethical consumption would also be part of the program. I would assist people, particularly young artists, in transforming their talents into small businesses or long-term careers by providing training in these areas. For people who are frequently overlooked or deterred from pursuing creative careers, my project would serve as a source of inspiration and financial support. The core, in my opinion, is sustainability education in addition to skill development. Poor communities have suffered greatly as a result of the fashion industry's promotion of excessive consumption and oversupply of low-cost, disposable, low-quality clothing. By educating people on how to maintain, fix, and repurpose clothing, I hope to change attitudes toward more conscientious consumption. In addition to saving them money and removing waste, this would increase awareness and appreciation of apparel and craftsmanship. This project holds personal significance for me, as I have personally witnessed the transformative power of fashion in fostering a sense of self-worth, purpose, and community. I understand what it's like to have high goals but limited means. And I am aware of the impact that possibility and encouragement can have. In addition to using what I've learned to give back in a significant and long-lasting way, I want to be that support system for others. Regardless of who they are or where they come from, I think everyone should have opportunity, creativity, and dignity, which is why I care about improving my community. People can start to realize their value and potential when they have access to resources, information, and skills. Communities as a whole can become more resilient, stronger, and more cohesive when creativity is fostered within the community. Ultimately, I want to empower people rather than just dress them. By means of education, sustainability, and artistic mentoring, my aim is to establish a community that fosters talent, exchanges resources, and motivates individuals to improve not only their own lives but also the lives of those around them.

Making a Positive Impact Through Sustainable Fashion I want to make a positive impact on the world by using fashion as a platform for social responsibility, creativity, and sustainability. As a student at Alabama A&M University majoring in Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Apparel Design and Merchandising, I am passionate about creating clothing that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. My goal is to design garments that not only make people feel confident and authentic but also reflect care for the environment and respect for the individuals involved in the production process. Growing up in the United States, I was constantly exposed to fast-changing trends and the widespread popularity of fast fashion. While fashion always intrigued me as a form of self-expression, I began to see how the industry often operates at the expense of people and the planet. I learned about the environmental consequences of overproduction, the massive waste created by cheaply made clothing, and the inhumane labor conditions many workers endure in order to meet unrealistic demands. This knowledge forced me to reconsider how I view fashion—not just as a creative outlet, but as a system with real-world consequences. I realized that if I truly wanted to be part of the fashion world, I had a responsibility to be part of the solution. I want to use my education, creativity, and passion to help reshape the industry into something more just, responsible, and forward-thinking. My ultimate goal is to create a sustainable fashion brand that emphasizes ethical practices and conscious design. I envision a brand that blends style and sustainability by using eco-friendly materials, minimizing fabric waste, and prioritizing fair labor practices. Every piece would be created with intention, reflecting a deep respect for both the environment and the skilled hands that bring the designs to life. I believe fashion can be beautiful without being harmful—and I want to prove that it’s possible to build a successful business model around those values. In addition to designing ethical clothing, I want to educate and inspire others to make more thoughtful choices. Through social media, pop-up events, workshops, and transparent brand messaging, I plan to raise awareness about the true cost of fast fashion and offer practical alternatives. I want to help people realize that being stylish and being responsible are not mutually exclusive. Ultimately, I believe that fashion has the power to influence culture, change habits, and shape a more compassionate world. Whether I launch my own label or collaborate with others who share my values, I am committed to using fashion as a force for good. By combining creativity with sustainability and ethics, I hope to build a career that uplifts individuals, honors the planet, and leaves a lasting, positive impact.

My experience, time at an HBCU, and objectives in digital fashion design and marketing have all shaped who I am now. I was captivated by fashion at a young age because of its cultural relevance and narratives, as well as the opportunity for self-expression. This love grew into a desire to work in apparel design and merchandising, namely digital design and marketing. I am presently a student at Alabama A&M University, where I am actively honing the abilities required to combine fashion and technology to achieve my goals. In particular, Alabama A&M University has created a supportive environment with a community that understands my aspirations and obstacles, allowing me to excel academically. Every day, I am motivated by HBCUs' rich history and tradition, which reminds me that I am standing on the shoulders of those who came before me. My membership in an organization that recognizes Black leadership and success has fueled my ambition to thrive in an industry where Black artists are frequently undervalued. My interest in digital fashion design and marketing extends beyond my accomplishments; it also involves altering my neighborhood and family. I want to use my skills and knowledge to help emerging designers and firms who may not have adequate industry representation. In addition, I hope to include sustainability in my design work to raise awareness of moral ideals and responsible product use. Despite complaints about the fashion industry's environmental impact, I believe that novel marketing methods and digital design can lead to more ambitious solutions. I want to help create a culture in which apparel is both visually appealing and environmentally responsible. My path in digital fashion design and marketing has been molded by my enthusiasm, determination, and strong ambition to make a significant influence in the fashion industry. The enthusiasm has turned into a dedication to hiring a specialist in apparel design and merchandising, with a particular emphasis on digital design and marketing. As an Alabama A&M University student, I'm now working on developing the skills needed to transform the fashion business and achieve my goals through technology. Attending a historically black college or university (HBCU) is very important to me. These organizations have long stood as beacons of excellence, cultural enrichment, and empowerment. In particular, Alabama A&M University has given me a network of people who understand my goals and struggles. Attending a historically black college or university (HBCU) is very important to me. These organizations have long stood as beacons of excellence, cultural enrichment, and empowerment. Alabama A&M University, in particular, has supplied me with a network of people who understand my goals and struggles, resulting in an environment conducive to academic success. There are plenty of possibilities all around me. I am constantly impressed by the rich history and heritage of HBCUs.The rich history and legacy of HBCUs inspire me daily, reminding me that I am standing on the shoulders of those who came before us. My drive is to excel in the fashion industry is typically underrepresented by Black creatives. My ambition to thrive in the fashion industry, which is often underrepresented by Black creatives, originates from my membership in a club that recognizes Black leadership and excellence. My dedication to digital fashion design and marketing extends beyond personal accomplishment; it is about raising my family and my little neighborhood and I wish to motivate budding entrepreneurs and artists who may not be aware of their full potential. In addition, I attempt to include sustainability in my fashion designs to promote moral concepts and conscious, mindful purchasing. For many years, the fashion industry has faced criticism about its environmental impact.

College means gaining knowledge, broadening viewpoints, and preparing oneself for the future for many people. To me, my time at Alabama A&M University and my research of Family and Consumer Sciences with a focus on apparel design and merchandising is about far more than learning; it is about setting the foundation to achieve my aspirations. With an obvious emphasis on digital fashion design and marketing, I wish to establish a presence in the fashion world. I wish to combine technology with imagination to alter the way that fashion is born, produced, marketed, and worn. I started to appreciate fashion from an early age, and it started mostly as an aesthetic outlet; nevertheless, I soon recognized fashion to be much more than that a great means of self-identifying and strong communication. As I further investigated the industry, I began to see how particularly in social media marketing (SMM), digital showrooms, and virtual fashion events, digital design and marketing were increasingly important in influencing contemporary fashion norms. In the end, digital design is altering everything about fashion. I have come to see over time that for fashion designers to be able to create, produce, and promote garments only in the digital world, this is becoming a requirement rather than just an advantage. Understanding this fueled my enthusiasm and will to perfect marketing techniques and digital techniques. From early on, I've had a love for design. To me, style is a means of self-expression and communication rather than only curating an aesthetic. Finally, when I started to look more into style, I understood the growing relevance of digital design and marketing to push modern trends. Digital showrooms, online media channels, and virtual fashion experiences are all transforming the fashion business. Now, rather than just in great demand, the capacity to produce, design, and promote fashion in virtual settings is a must-have skill. Knowing this trend has motivated me to painstakingly learn digital tools and marketing skills I can apply to leave my name in fashion. At the end of the day, my studies at Alabama A&M University have set a solid academic foundation in apparel design and marketing. Lessons in consumer behavior, fashion illustration, and textiles have given me a good understanding of garment production, market trends, and customer interaction. I am especially excited to explore the digital side of design, which includes using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and upcoming 3D modeling tools like Clo3D and Marvelous Designer, which let me translate my creative ideas into reality. Using these methods to create creative fashion items that foster uniqueness and environmental consciousness will help me master the tools.