The Andréa W. and Kenneth C. Frazier Family Foundation and the Council of Fashion Designers of America are thrilled to announce Daveed Baptiste as the recipient of the 2026 Empowered Vision Award.

Baptiste stood out among a distinguished group of finalists for his exceptional creativity, vision, and commitment to building a unique and sustainable brand that reflects a bold, forward-thinking perspective. The designer’s work exemplifies the award’s mission to promote both creative and business growth, redefining the possibilities within fashion.

This award, which provides a $100,000 financial grant and a year-long mentorship program valued at an additional $100,000, was created to support and uplift emerging Black designers, providing them with the resources to expand their brands and compete on a global stage.

Daveed Baptiste will receive not only the financial grant but also personalized mentorship designed to guide the designer in scaling their business, enhancing brand development, production strategies, and market positioning. The goal is to ensure a lasting and meaningful impact on their brand’s growth and commercial success.

“As we enter year two of the Empowered Vision Award, we reaffirm our commitment to championing designers at every stage of their creative journey,” Steven Kolb, CEO and President of the CFDA said. “Our goal is to build an ecosystem where diverse talent not only has the opportunity to emerge, but the foundation to thrive. We are grateful for The Andréa W. and Kenneth C. Frazier Family Foundation’s leadership, whose vision and generosity help make this vital work possible.”

“Daveed Baptiste ultimately distinguished themselves through clear, thoughtful storytelling and a disciplined, vulnerable approach to building and strengthening their tools to lead a business,” said Milton Dixon III, Program Director of the Empowered Vision Award. “We’re proud to support a designer whose work speaks to the future of fashion, and we’re excited to move forward with them over the next year of mentorship and continued investment.”

“Our goal to champion rising Black designers continues to strengthen as we progress into year two of the Empowered Vision Award,” said James Frazier Trustee of Andréa W. and Kenneth C. Frazier Family Foundation. “These designers’ talent and determination are shaping the future of fashion, and we look forward to witnessing the expansion of their influence in the years ahead.”

Following the announcement, Daveed Baptiste was celebrated at a reception and cocktail event at the W Union Square on December 11, where the CFDA and The Andréa W. and Kenneth C. Frazier Family Foundation gathered to honor the winner’s achievements and the continued progress toward greater inclusivity in the fashion industry. The event provided a platform for industry leaders, media, and fellow designers to come together in support of this significant moment in the designer’s journey.

Through initiatives like the Empowered Vision Award, the CFDA and The Andréa W. and Kenneth C. Frazier Family Foundation are committed to leveling the playing field and providing Black designers with the resources to scale sustainably. This ensures that the fashion industry continues to evolve and reflect a truly diverse array of voices, fostering innovation, creativity, and growth in an ever-changing global market.