The multicultural fashion show was hosted by senior Lelia Micheal, who brought students together to celebrate global traditions through clothing and community.
“Being the host was amazing. This is my second year hosting the fashion show,” Micheal said. “The most rewarding moment for me was when everyone got together at the end and took photos with each other.”
Junior Lilly Lee represented her Hmong heritage by wearing a cultural clothing piece with beautiful embroidery and story cloths.
“My culture is not very well known, so I wanted to expand the knowledge of my culture,” Lee said.
Sophomore Bella Sayabane showcased Lau and Thai traditions with a sinh, a silk skirt, and a sue pat, a long sleeved shirt that is wrapped around the torso. A pha bang is also an important piece, being worn over one shoulder.
“I wanted to represent my culture as well as see other people’s culture,” Sayabane said. “The most rewarding part was walking down with the girls, who are also Lau and Thai, and seeing everybody cheer, as well as seeing how proud my mom was that I was representing my culture.”
This experience was not just about showcasing her own heritage, but also celebrating the diversity of others.
“Seeing how I got to represent my culture, as well as seeing other people represent their culture, was amazing,” Sayabane said.
Senior Helen Rojas dazzled in her quinceañera dress, showcasing her Hispanic heritage.
“I wore my quinceañera dress for the runway,” Rojas said. “Whenever I walked out there with my partner, you could just hear these cheers, it was so incredible.”
The event highlighted the beauty of diversity, with students proudly sharing their cultural heritage through fashion. From Hmong designs to Lau and Thai attire, and vibrant quinceañera gowns, the runway became a celebration of identity and unity.
“The most challenging thing for me was gathering the confidence to walk down that runway,” Lee said. “The moment I stepped out, though, I heard people cheering and applauding for me and I forgot all my insecurity.”
As the night ended, the sense of pride and connection was undeniable, displaying just how important cultural expression is.
“I’m just so glad we were able to do this, it was amazing,” Micheal said.