NEW BERN, Craven County — With Black History Month coming to an end, a New Bern organization chose to walk it out in style. The Teen Fashion Academy hosted one of their many fashion shows to celebrate history.

The Teen Fashion Academy is all about modeling, mentoring and motivating the youth. They seek to help teens embrace their beauty and that’s exactly what this event did.

The founder of this organization is Valentina Wilson, who was at this event and couldn’t be prouder of her ladies.

Valentina Wilson/founder says, “Think about all that, all they’ve done and how they’ve done a good job. Let’s encourage the children that we know, who are within our own spears to be better, brighter and bolder.”

The Teen Fashion Academy did just that at their “bridging the gap between BLK history and women’s history,” fashion show. Young ladies ranging from ages 11 to 18 hit the red-carpet wearing handmade outfits.

Something that seamstress Mary Ann DeRossett says was not an overnight process.

Mary Ann DeRossett says, “So we met monthly for about 5–6 months and we’ve accomplished an awful lot. The girls have come up with some beautiful ideas on their own.”

The outfits featured stylish denim and African patterns. But the event wasn’t all about fashion. There were prizes, food, dancing, and more.

There was also a tribute to inspirational women. Each model acknowledged the favorite lady in their lives.