Stand with Survivors of Sexual Violence at Courage Couture

My name is Leah M. Forney, and I am an advocate, educator, and survivor.

As a Black woman survivor, I’ve faced the unique challenges of navigating a world that often silences voices like mine. But through resilience, advocacy, and the power of community, I’ve discovered my purpose: empowering survivors of sexual violence to reclaim their stories and transform their pain into power.

That’s why I’m creating The Courage Couture Gala—a black-tie event with a fashion twist. This gala is more than an evening of elegance; it’s a movement. It’s a space where creativity meets advocacy, where boldness inspires change, and where survivors find hope, healing, and the courage to thrive.

The gala will raise awareness about the ongoing epidemic of sexual violence, amplify the voices of survivors, and support them in rebuilding their lives through the Thrive & Rebuild Educational Scholarship Fund. This fund will provide seven survivors with grants ranging from $250 to $1,000 to cover their educational expenses and help them pursue their dreams.

But I can’t do this without your help.

Here’s how your donation can make an impact:

$25 helps us provide materials for recording survivor stories to share at the gala.

$50 covers printing costs for event programs that highlight stories of resilience.

$100 contributes to creating elements of the gala’s fashion twist, showcasing the strength and courage of survivors.

$150 supports travel stipends for speakers and survivors sharing their experiences.

$200 helps us secure audiovisual equipment to ensure the event reaches a wider audience.

$250 directly funds one of the scholarships, helping a survivor take a step closer to their educational goals.

Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to making this vision a reality.

The Courage Couture Gala is more than an event—it’s a bold statement that survivors deserve to be heard, supported, and celebrated. With your support, we can create an unforgettable evening, build a scholarship fund that changes lives, and inspire a movement that challenges the world to stand against sexual violence.

Join us in designing a fearless future. Donate today, and let’s make Courage Couture a beacon of hope and transformation.