It is with immense gratitude to announce that @blackboyknits has been selected as one of the finalists of the 2022 CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund! Thank you to @CFDA and @Voguemagazine for this incredible recognition. I am beyond excited for this life changing opportunity 🙏🏿 While growing up in Togo, I frequently stayed at my grandmother’s who rented part of her home to seamstresses in order to afford rent. As a young queer child, I often felt isolated, and spent most of my time nestled under the cutting tables watching in awe as they turned brightly colored-printed textiles into unique custom-made pieces for each client. After moving to Chicago, I began receiving the “what do you want to be when you grow up?” question that plagued so many of our youths. The recollection of hiding under the tables at my grandmother’s became a memory I always traveled back to. The unequivocal response was always “Fashion Designer”. Luckily, the adults in my life listened and nurtured my aspirations which eventually led me to pursue fashion. In undergrad I met a wonderful professor, @annieleelarson who saw something in me and organized the crowdfunding that pioneered the launch of @BlackBoyKnits. This achievement is a testament to the impact of great educators who go above and beyond for their students. I am forever indebted to your mentorship and hope you know how much you mean to me. BBK was founded within community and as it expands it is my hope that I continue to pay it forward. I also want to thank @rinipaloma, @_.sunflxwer, @dina_asabea, @kamaladisa, @kaylajv and @tenderspace who’ve all played a huge role in this process! Lastly, I want to give a special thank you to @christopherjohnrogers for the heartfelt letter of recommendation. You’ve continued to be a guidance and inspiration to me and having your support in this way means so much. Shout out to all the other amazing finalists. I look forward to this journey and the community we’re going to build. 🧚🏿‍♂️🌈🤎🎯🌸🙏🏿🥹✨ #cvff 📷: @nateshuls