Howard University has long been a hub for creativity and culture, but the 2024 Springfest fashion show marked a new chapter in its history. This wasn’t just another campus event—it was the first of its kind. 

Howard’s various modeling organizations collaborated with students outside of these groups, creating an all-inclusive event where everyone passionate about modeling had the chance to shine. This spring show wasn’t just a runway moment; it was a competition. The stakes were high as the winning model earned a contract with Strut Models, a professional modeling agency.

This unique show was captured in a documentary called Strut the Yard, produced entirely by Howard students: Serenity Owens, Tamryn Sainten, Valencia Pizzini, and Taylor Brooks. The film offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the immense work, dedication, and teamwork required to pull off such an ambitious event. From basement rehearsals to hitting the grand stage, Howard’s student models, designers, and creatives proved their commitment to excellence.

From Idea to Execution

Serenity Owens, the secretary of Elite Models, played a pivotal role in bringing the show to life. What started as a simple duty—emailing Strut Models—turned into an opportunity to unite the entire Howard community. Instead of gatekeeping this experience for only a few, Owens made sure everyone could be involved.

 “At the end of the day, we’re just a whole bunch of creatives trying to make it in a harsh industry," Owens said.

Owens found like-minded women at Howard who shared her vision for what the competition could be. She gathered her team of four women, including herself, to bring the documentary to life. Their shared passion and determination helped turn the concept into a reality, ensuring every detail was carefully planned and executed to perfection.

The inspiration for the competition came from Anok Yai, a top model who was first discovered at Howard’s Homecoming despite not being a student. Her discovery showed the untapped potential of Howard’s community. It led others to imagine what kind of talent could emerge from Howard students who are fully invested in the runway, putting their all into each step, pose, and strut.  

Building Opportunities for All  

Ayanna Mann, a senior and the 2023-2024 president of Elite Models at Howard, was instrumental in her role. For Mann, inclusivity was key.  

 "We pride ourselves in making sure we’re not just extending opportunities to our members but the wider community at Howard. We know there’s infinite talent that’s not able to join these modeling organizations,” she said. “We wanted to make sure the opportunity was accessible to those who were willing to dedicate their time to this and those who deserve it. Limiting that to only our members would be a disservice."

This approach opened doors for students who couldn’t commit to joining modeling groups but still wanted to experience the runway. The modeling clinics held before the show offered these students a chance to learn, improve, and perfect their skills.

Legacy in the Making

For Shaw Bernard, CEO of Strut Models, collaborating with Howard University on such an impactful project was nothing short of monumental. The weight of legacy was always present:

 “Legacy is so important to me; that’s what I’m building. So, to do it with such an iconic institution at this level—I would never forget it," said Bernard.

The significance of collaborating with a place like Howard, where culture and creativity thrive, gave Bernard a sense of honor and pride in her work with the students. Strut the Yard  wasn’t just about finding the next top model—it was about building a bridge between Howard’s aspiring creatives and the broader fashion industry.

A Howard-Made Production  

The “Strut the Yard” team also ensured that the show remained an authentic Howard production. The documentary featured music from Howard artists, and every aspect—from the soundtrack to the designers, photographers, and videographers—was handled by Howard students. As Owens and her team emphasized, this was a *Howard* documentary through and through.  

The show’s impact extended far beyond the runway. It demonstrated the sheer talent and determination within the Howard community. Working with brands like Mielle Organics and Kaleidoscope Hair Products, Strut the Yard also highlighted the importance of Black-owned businesses and the significant role they play in the fashion industry.

The documentary also tackled the mental and emotional challenges that came with the competition. With the pressure of only one winner walking away with a contract, mental health resources were made available to participants, including a 988 mental health crisis line to help students cope with the stress.

Watch the Documentary Now

The journey of Strut the Yard is now live for the world to see. The documentary is available on YouTube, and the story it tells is one of community, collaboration, and creativity. This event wasn’t just a fashion show—it was a testament to the power of Black excellence at Howard University. Do you see what can happen when you put four Howard women on a team? They make magic, and this documentary is proof of that.

Strut the Yard is Cover 2 Cover approved. Don’t miss out—watch it now and witness the future of fashion.