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Brooklynn Monroe Take Over During NYFW25

Brooklyn Monroe wearing a piece from her collection

Brooklynn Monroe, founder and designer of BrookèShae.Co made a memorable debut at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) 2025 with her innovative Fashion Museum-styled event. Held in a small art gallery in Brooklyn, this unique presentation combined fashion and art, offering attendees an immersive experience that stood out during the week-long fashion festivities. A Fusion of Fashion and Art Monroe’s Fashion Museum was more than just a runway show; it was an interactive exhibition that showcased her latest collection in a gallery-like setting. Guests were invited to explore the space at their leisure, enjoying complimentary wines and finger foods as they admired the designs. This format allowed for a more personal connection with the pieces, encouraging attendees to appreciate the intricate details and craftsmanship up close. ​ The Collection: A Tribute to Individuality The collection itself was a testament to Monroe’s dedication to celebrating individuality and diversity. Each piece reflected a blend of contemporary trends and timeless elegance, catering to a wide audience while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The designs featured bold patterns, vibrant colors, and innovative silhouettes, all hallmarks of the BrookèShae.Co brand.           Reception and Impact Attendees praised the Fashion Museum for its fresh approach to presenting a collection. By moving away from the traditional runway format, Monroe created an environment that felt inclusive and engaging. Fashion critics and enthusiasts alike noted the effectiveness of this method in highlighting the artistry behind each garment. Looking Ahead With her successful NYFW debut, Brooklynn Monroe has established herself as a designer to watch in the coming seasons. Her ability to merge fashion with experiential art showcases not only her creativity but also her understanding of the evolving landscape of fashion presentation.​ Brooklynn Monroe’s, a budding entrepreneur, first fashion show at NYFW 2025 was a resounding success, offering a fresh perspective on how fashion can be experienced and appreciated. As the industry continues to evolve, innovative approaches like Monroe’s Fashion Museum are sure to leave a lasting impact. Shop at: https://www.brookeshae.co/

Afiya Ricks: Shaping Financial Legacies for Future Generations

Financial planner Afiya Ricks

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we honor trailblazers like Afiya Ricks, a financial advisor whose mission is to inspire and educate individuals about various aspects of finance. Afiya has been licensed 25 in finance and has dedicated her career to helping others build wealth while continuing to expand her own financial knowledge. What’s Your Financial Brand? Afiya Ricks embodies a financial brand that is deeply rooted in education, empowerment, and action. Her philosophy is simple: continuously learn, inspire others, and take decisive steps toward financial independence. She believes that financial literacy is not just about understanding numbers but about recognizing and maximizing one’s financial worth. Be the First Generation to Take Action Afiya emphasizes the importance of breaking generational cycles by taking the first step toward financial stability. Whether it’s eliminating debt, owning property, or creating a lasting financial legacy, she advocates for proactive engagement rather than passive discussion. Instead of waiting on the sidelines, she encourages individuals to be the first in their family to make strategic financial moves. Investing: Taking a Chance for Future Prosperity Many families are generations behind in starting the investment journey. Afiya stresses that someone must take the leap and begin the process — just as they would in homeownership or entrepreneurship. The stock market may seem daunting to newcomers, but it has been a powerful tool for wealth creation for centuries. Learning and adapting are key to long-term financial success. Knowledge is Power: Stay Informed and Take Action In a world where misinformation is rampant, Afiya underscores the importance of seeking knowledge from regulated and credible sources. Social media and sensationalized news are not substitutes for professional financial education. She urges individuals to understand their financial value, identify areas for growth, and actively work towards increasing their financial potential.  A Trailblazer in Finance Afiya Ricks has spent over two decades in the financial services industry, consistently ranking as the #1 investment product wholesaler. She has played a pivotal role in raising over $2 billion in assets while working for two Fortune 500 companies. Her extensive Wall Street experience includes collaborating with financial firms and advisors to distribute mutual funds, ETFs, unit trusts, and annuities. Currently holding her Series 7 (used as Series 6), Series 26, and Series 63 FINRA licenses, along with multiple life insurance licenses, Afiya remains a powerhouse in the financial sector. Her dedication to financial education and wealth-building continues to inspire those looking to take control of their financial future. This Women’s History Month, we celebrate Afiya Ricks not only for her accomplishments but for her unwavering commitment to helping others build financial legacies that will last for generations to come. Contact Afiya Ricks  

MakingABrand supports Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition 5th Annual Competition

Pharrell Williams with a denim blazer and fashionable shades.

Pharrell Williams’ ‘Ambition’ Million Dollar Prize Contest is a game-changer for entrepreneurs, creatives, and visionaries looking to make an impact. As someone who has dedicated my career to building brands, empowering talent, and fostering innovation, I wholeheartedly support initiatives like this that provide opportunities for the next generation of rising stars. Championing the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs Throughout my career, I have always believed in the power of ambition, vision, and perseverance. From co-founding pioneering fashion brands like Mecca, Enyce, and Parish Nation to mentoring emerging creative entrepreneurs, my mission has been to uplift those who are ready to push boundaries and redefine industries. Pharrell’s contest aligns perfectly with MakingABrand’s mission, offering a life-changing opportunity for those who dare to dream big. Providing Mentorship and Guidance Success is not just about having a great idea—it’s about execution, strategy, and resilience. I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and experience with young creative entrepreneurs to help them navigate the complexities of business, branding, and growth. Whether through one-on-one mentorship, speaking engagements, or advisory roles, I take pride in guiding visionaries toward sustainable success. Advocating for Funding and Visibility One of the biggest hurdles for up-and-coming entrepreneurs is access to capital and exposure. Contests like ‘Ambition’ provide not just financial backing but also invaluable visibility. I have long supported initiatives that bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, ensuring that groundbreaking ideas don’t go unnoticed due to a lack of resources. Empowering Diverse Creators and Innovators Diversity in business and creativity is essential for progress. My commitment to supporting contests like ‘Ambition’ stems from the belief that innovative voices from all backgrounds should have the chance to be heard and celebrated. By backing programs that uplift underrepresented entrepreneurs, I aim to foster a more inclusive and dynamic business landscape. Encouraging Strategic Brand Building A strong brand identity is crucial for any entrepreneur looking to scale. Having built multiple successful brands, I understand the importance of storytelling, positioning, and authenticity. Through my support, I strive to equip aspiring business owners with the tools they need to craft compelling brand narratives that resonate with their audience and attract investors. The Future of Entrepreneurial Support Pharrell’s ‘Ambition‘ award is just one of many programs that inspire me. Moving forward, I will continue to champion initiatives that provide financial support, mentorship, and strategic guidance to those determined to make their mark. Success is a journey, and I am committed to helping the next generation of leaders navigate their path to greatness. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or creative, I encourage you to seize opportunities like this, believe in your vision, and never stop pushing forward. The world is waiting for your brilliance—let’s make it happen together. We at MakingABrand are here to help guide you to your success.