A NIGHT OF VISION, DIVERSITY, AND CELEBRATION AT NEPA FASHION WEEK

On November 9, 2026, I had the honor of attending NEPA Fashion Week, an event that not only exceeded my expectations but left me deeply inspired. I’ve attended countless shows over the years, but there was something special, something undeniably transformative, about what unfolded in Northeastern Pennsylvania that night.

NEPA Fashion Week, founded by award-winning model, recording artist, and visionary creative Alahji Robinson, professionally known as Alahji DáQuan, was born from a mission that resonated with me from the moment I stepped through the doors. His goal was bold yet beautifully simple: to bring the vibrancy, elegance, and cultural richness of the fashion world to a region often overlooked by the industry. But what he created is so much more than a fashion event, it’s a cultural movement.

From the very first look that hit the runway, it became clear that this show wasn’t just about clothing. It was about community, representation, and celebrating people in all their fullness.

Thirteen diverse designers and boutiques showcased collections that ranged from avant-garde to streetwear to red-carpet glam. Each brought their own voice and vision, creating a runway that felt alive, modern, and deeply rooted in authenticity. The models were just as varied, representing a beautiful spectrum of ethnicities, ages, genders, body types, and creative genres. Watching them walk felt like witnessing the fashion industry we should have had all along.

What struck me most was that diversity wasn’t used as a prop or a moment, it was the foundation of the entire experience. NEPA Fashion Week fully embraces models and creatives of all shapes, sizes, ages, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. At a time when many are still trying to “catch up,” Alahji and his team are already leading, creating space for fashion to thrive where it never has before and ensuring everyone has a seat at the table.

And just when I thought the night couldn’t get any more meaningful, Philip Drew and I were completely surprised with unexpected honors. I was presented with a Visionary Award, and Philip received a Photographer Award, recognition we truly did not see coming. Standing there in front of an audience filled with creatives, innovators, and emerging talent, and fellow honorees, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude. It was a reminder that the work we do, the voices we uplift, and the stories we fight to tell are seen.

Philip’s face said it all, pure appreciation. I couldn’t have been more thrilled to share that moment with him.

As the lights dimmed and the final model took her walk, I realized that NEPA Fashion Week wasn’t just an event I attended, it was an experience that reaffirmed everything I believe about this industry. Fashion should bring people together. It should challenge norms, celebrate individuality, and build bridges into communities that have long been ignored.

Alahji DáQuan and his team are doing exactly that. They are rewriting the narrative, shifting the dynamic, and building a legacy grounded in inclusivity, innovation, and respect.

Leaving the venue that night, I felt hopeful. Energized. Seen.
And above all, grateful to have witnessed a moment in fashion history being made right in the heart of Northeastern Pennsylvania.

 all images by Philip Drew @photosbypdrew