Four talented young women from the Model 10/18 Fashion and Beauty Academy of Monroe, Louisiana, recently embarked on an unforgettable journey to New York City as part of the company’s annual destination trip.
Madison Bailey, daughter of Tyechia Bailey; Johniah Miller, daughter of John and Dr. Andrea Miller; Payton Wesley, daughter of Reginald and Yolanda Wesley; and Jailah Collie, granddaughter of Isabelle Butler, were accompanied by their families in accordance with company policy as they immersed themselves in two days of cultural enrichment and high-fashion experiences that will undoubtedly shape their understanding of the industry for years to come.
The adventure began at one of the world’s most prestigious cultural institutions, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where Madison, Johniah, Payton, and Jailah explored the groundbreaking “Dandyism Superfine” exhibit. This powerful display showcased the evolution of Black elegance and style, tracing the sophisticated sartorial traditions that have influenced fashion across centuries. The young women were captivated by the historical significance of Black dandyism and its lasting impact on contemporary fashion culture.
Academy owner and founder Robert Wright reflected on the profound impact of this experience: “It was moving to see them observe black history in such a fashionable way. Many saw the photos from this year’s MET Gala, they had a chance to come to the MET and see for themselves what it was all about.”
Their cultural immersion continued with a memorable lunch at Sylvia’s, the legendary soul food restaurant in Harlem. More than just a meal, this experience connected the students to the rich heritage of African American culture in New York City. The warmth and history embedded in every dish served as a reminder of the deep cultural roots that continue to influence fashion and artistic expression today.
The excitement reached new heights during their visit to Madam Tussauds wax museum, where the four aspiring fashion professionals encountered lifelike representations of fashion icons and cultural figures who have shaped the industry. This interactive experience brought them face-to-face with the legends they had studied, making their educational journey tangible and inspiring.
One of the trip’s most memorable moments came during a professional photo shoot on the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Against the stunning backdrop of New York City’s skyline, Madison, Johniah, Payton, and Jailah showcased their modeling skills while capturing forever the magic of their New York experience. The bridge provided the perfect setting for these young women to practice their craft while creating lasting memories of their transformative journey.
Perhaps the most educational experience came during their visit to Daniel’s Leather company, where luxury met education in the most hands-on way possible. The students had the rare opportunity to try on and experience high-end garments crafted from mink, leather, fur, and rabbit skin. This tactile experience with premium materials provided invaluable insight into the craftsmanship and quality that define luxury fashion, knowledge that will prove essential as they develop their own aesthetic sensibilities.
Wright emphasized how this hands-on experience complemented their year-round education: “Each girl in the academy subscribes to the Vogue Magazine. We study the articles, models, ad placement and they learn about high fashion throughout the year. Certainly this year’s trip provided a visual experience to accompany their studies throughout the year.”
Throughout their New York adventure, these four African American students from small-town Louisiana gained profound appreciation for the contributions of Black pioneers in fashion and culture. They learned about the revolutionary influence of André Leon Talley, whose editorial vision shaped haute couture; the flamboyant and boundary-pushing fashion choices of Prince; the elegant sophistication of Josephine Baker’s style; the bold statements made through Zoot suits; and the artistic expression found in Nikki Giovanni’s poetry that celebrates Black identity and beauty.
Wright’s educational philosophy extends beyond fashion training alone. “Regardless if these girls become models or go in to entertainment or professional careers, we expect them to read well, travel well, and dress well. These trips reinforce that concept,” he explained. His vision reaches far beyond Monroe’s city limits: “We’ve traveled to Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, and New York exposing these girls from Monroe to the world of fashion on the outside. If they can see a bigger world than their hometown, maybe they’ll dream bigger.”
Looking ahead, Wright revealed exciting plans for the academy’s next adventure: “Next May, the girls will get a chance to visit Paris and explore the fashion capital of the world, where they can experience haute couture firsthand and walk the same streets where legendary designers like Coco Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent revolutionized the industry.” Having gained appreciation for Black fashion history at the MET, the students will benefit tremendously from experiencing Paris, where they can explore the contributions of supermodels like Iman and Naomi Campbell who conquered European runways, building on their foundation of cultural fashion awareness gained in New York.
This transformative experience represents more than just a trip—it was an investment in these young women’s futures. The New York City journey was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Wright Enterprises LLC, as well as Bruscato Law Firm and Mr. Chris Lewis, whose support demonstrates the community’s commitment to nurturing young talent. By exposing Madison, Johniah, Payton, and Jailah to the highest levels of fashion, culture, and artistry, the Model 10/18 Fashion and Beauty Academy continues to provide its students with inspiration, knowledge, and confidence that will serve them throughout their careers, preparing them for a world as vast as their dreams.
Model 10/18
