The W New York – Union Square’s Living Room Bar and Lounge was the perfect setting for the CFDA and the Andrea W. & Kenneth C. Frazier Family Foundation’s second Empowered Vision Award –  a true celebration of Black excellence in fashion, design, and craftsmanship. The space transformed into a warm, inviting haven, filled with a sense of joy and togetherness while honoring the 2025 Empowered Vision Award recipient, Daveed Baptiste. The designer, whose relentless dedication and vision have propelled him forward, was celebrated for his unwavering commitment to craft and innovation in fashion. 

“I started my brand just two years ago with love, hope, and a deep desire to create epic, beautiful designs. I never imagined I would be embraced by the fashion industry in this way,” Baptiste told the crowd in his powerful and memorable acceptance words. “The art community was the first to truly receive me, and tonight feels like a full-circle moment, a collective hug from the fashion world. For that, I’m deeply grateful.

“I also want to thank the jury for taking the time to listen, truly listen, to my presentation. Standing there, I realized I was surrounded by my heroes, all while trying to play it cool. To be seen, heard, and affirmed in that space means everything,” he added.

Creative director and cultural advocate Edward L. Buchanan announced Baptiste with supermodel and fellow selection committee Imaan Hammam by his side.

Trustee James Frazier spoke to the foundation’s commitment to uplifting others and push the fashion industry forward. 

“We are committed to ensuring that their pathways are met with real support, real resources, and real opportunity,” Frazier said. “When you invest in design, you are not just investing in a collection, you are investing in a world of ideas, the communities designers serve and represent, and the long-term strength of the industry.

“It is a privilege to be here for year two of the Empower Envision Award,” he added. This program was created with a clear intention to honor the brilliance, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit of Black designers. Our Foundation is built on the cornerstone of expanding opportunity, advocating for education, and supporting emerging talent from historically underrepresented communities.”
 

Shared smiles, heartfelt embraces between longtime friends, and meaningful new connections served as a reminder of what community, kinship, and collaboration truly look and feel like, especially in a city that never sleeps and barely rests.  

“Moments like this remind me of the significance of support and, more importantly, the luxury of imagination,” fashion director Java Jones said. “Daveed’s spirit embodies this. In a landscape of clones, he chooses the slow, necessary work of becoming a true individual and artist. And tonight is one of many occasions that has been rewarded.”

As L’Enchanteur’s Soull and Dynasty Ogun put it, “It’s one thing to have ideas, vision, and talent, but when those are met with real resources, like funding, innovation can truly flourish. As previous CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund recipients, it’s exciting to see younger talent like Daveed receive that kind of support.”

As the year draws to a close, the evening also offered a moment of collective pause and reflection for many. 

“The room is Black and beautiful, and I’m truly inspired by people who look like me. I’ve always admired people who are never afraid to express their authenticity, so being here tonight means a lot to me,” Emmy-winning actress Karrueche Tran said.

“Tonight reminds us of our resilience. Being here among peers who inspire me as well feels like a family reunion,” Naomi Elizée Blue, Vogue Fashion Marketing Director, shared. “One word I’m moving with into 2026 is freedom, liberated to be my best self.” 

“This evening left me feeling inspired and relieved,” Dionne Cochrane, Casting Director and Producer, reflected. “Seeing old friends and reconnecting made it the perfect way to close out the year – it’s truly beautiful and I’m grateful.”

It was an evening rooted in honor, innovation, and love. Here’s to more kinship, support, and community in 2026.