In second grade, Kaya Ugorji learned how to hand stitch. And by seventh grade, she was using a sewing machine. Ugorji has always loved trying new things – she is currently learning how to skateboard and speak the French language.  Additionally, as a half Grenadian and half Nigerian woman, Ugorji loves theater and fashion for how they both have a way of beautifully making outcasts feel included and important. In a society where it’s easy to be a follower, Ugorji plans to use fashion to get people to be themselves again.

We spoke with Ugorji about her love for the arts and how they’ve helped her, the importance of black female voices in fashion, what she’s most looking forward to the most at FIT, and her hopes of fashion’s future.

How did you hear about the Gucci Changemakers X CFDA Scholars by Design Award? And why did you apply?

A family member who works in the industry told me about it, and I thought it was perfect for me, because not only is it about fashion, but it’s also about making change.

Tell us more about yourself.

Born and raised in DC, I grew up surrounded by art, so I feel like it’s a part of me. I love all forms of art: Fashion design, theater, music, dance, etc. Art has always been a way for me to express myself and show others who I am.

I was extremely shy growing up, up until I took an improv class at my high school my sophomore year. That class was a huge turning point for me, and that class was a major factor in getting me out of my shell. But before that, I had art.

I have so many drawings and paintings, and of course, a plethora of croquis and fashion sketches in my portfolio. The best part about sketching a garment for me, is seeing it come to life in the end.

Also, I believe in the power of first impressions. Every day, we get up and choose how we want the world to see us, and we do this with what we wear. I want to be able to help people put themselves on display to the world and make a statement.

When did you first get interested in fashion?

I’ve been trying to figure this out myself. I think my passion for fashion came from my Bratz Dolls. I had so many! I would always mix and match their outfits and I vividly remember making a skirt for one of the dolls out of an old shoe with my cousin. In fifth grade, I had decided that I wanted to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology and I’m happy to say that I’ll be attending FIT this fall as a freshman!

What are you looking forward to the most at FIT?

I’m looking forward to bettering myself as a designer. I know that I have the opportunity to learn from some of the best people in the industry, and I see that as an honor. I’m excited for the many opportunities that I’ll have to really turn my dreams into reality.

Where do you hope to be in 10 years?

In ten years, I’ll be 28. I would like to have an established fashion house by then. I also want to be a major voice in the fashion industry. I want to be someone that young black girls can look up to and gain hope and inspiration from. I remember how I felt when I first heard that Rihanna was the first black woman to head a luxury brand for LVMH. She gave me another boost of ambition, and I hope that I can do that for someone someday.

Where do you see the fashion industry in 10 years?

I hope to see the industry be more diverse, and not just on the runways or on magazine covers, the fashion industry needs more diversity in the boardrooms so that brands avoid appropriation and insensitivity in the product. When there is a mix of different cultures and different backgrounds, different perspectives and opinions are offered, and this avoids ignorance.

If a team of people working behind the scenes has the same background, the same upbringing, the same socioeconomic status, the same race, the same gender identity, the same sexual orientation, etc., you’re only getting one perspective. Every aspect of the industry needs to reflect its audience, which has many different perspectives, so at the very foundation of any team or brand in the industry, there needs to be multiple voices.