Growing up, I didn’t have much. Raised in a low-income neighborhood by Jamaican immigrant family members, I eventually entered foster care. We didn’t have cable or Wi-Fi, and something as simple as juice felt like a luxury. I wore the same outfits and shoes year after year, and was even called out for it at school. But along the way, there were people who showed up for me—my grandmother, who did everything she could to support me, and school staff who helped pay for my prom and made sure I could feel confident and included. Those acts of kindness changed my life. Because of that support, I kept going. I graduated, got a job, and now I’m building a career helping young people who remind me of myself.

That’s why I do this work. Through my fellowship at Recess Art, I am organizing a prom giveaway for high school seniors graduating in 2026. I want to pay it forward and help students who may not have the resources to attend prom. With 13 students already signed up, I am seeking both cash donations and prom attire—dresses (XXS-2X), tuxedos (Medium and size 34), heels, and men’s shoes. The event starts May 21st, and with a sponsor backing out last minute, I am doing this on my own, free of charge, in hopes of making this an annual tradition and building my resume as a humanitarian and youth advocate.

Your support—whether through cash donations or attire—will help these students experience a milestone they’ll never forget. Prom attire donations can be dropped off at 46 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205, Wednesday–Saturday from 12–3pm. Please join me in showing up for them, just as others once showed up for me. Together, we can make a lasting impact and remind these young people that they are not alone and their future is bright.