Rachel Scott of Diotima has won the CFDA x Frazier Family Foundation Empowered Vision Award.

Image architect Law Roach made the announcement at a cocktail reception in New York City where industry leaders, media and fellow designers gathered to honor the award’s role in championing Black designers with a financial grant and mentorship.

“High Cocktail” was the dress dress code and guests turned out in their most fashionable – and fabulous – looks to honor the awards’ role in championing Black designers. 

Andrea Frazier, Shiona Turini, Julez Smith, Kristen Noel Crawley, Christopher John Rogers, Dynasty and Soull Ogun, Maxwell Osborne, Candace Marie, Ava Dash, Carly Cushnie,  Mario Horne, and Reginald Christian were among the chic crowd.

“The Empowered Vision Award isn’t just about achievement, it’s about honoring the courage it takes to bring big dreams to life, often in the face of adversity. [Finalists] Aisling Camps, Charles Harbison, and Rachel Scott have created an impact on this industry, and they embody the very spirit of resilience and creative excellence that defines Black designers’ contributions to the American fashion landscape,” Roach said. “This award not only celebrates the transformative work being done, but also serves as a beacon for those just starting on their journey. The accomplishments of our finalists remind us that vision and purpose, paired with hard work and resources, can reshape industries.”

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. 

“Supporting Rachel Scott through the Empowered Vision Award is a meaningful step in our commitment to breaking down barriers and building pathways for Black designers to thrive. By partnering with the CFDA, we’re investing not only in her creative journey but in the future of a more inclusive and resilient industry. With mentorship and financial backing, we aim to equip designers to shape their businesses—and the industry itself—with confidence and sustainable growth. We’re excited to see how Rachel’s journey will inspire broader progress toward an industry where all voices are truly represented,” James Frazier, Trustee of the Frazier Family Foundation, said.

Scott, who most recently also won the 2024 American Womenswear Designer of the Year at the 2024 CFDA Fashion Awards presented by Amazon Fashion, will receive the financial grant as well as 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.

“Congratulations not only to Rachel Scott of Diotima, but also to Aisling Camps and Charles Harbison of Harbison for their exceptional creativity, vision and commitment to building unique and sustainable brands showcasing the best of American fashion creativity. Their work exemplifies the shared vision between CFDA and Frazier Family Foundation to redefine the possibilities in fashion by promoting homegrown creative business talent,” Steven Kolb, CEO of the CFDA, said.

Through the Empowered Vision Award, the CFDA and the 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.

The members of the 2024 Selection Committee are:

Alastair McKimm (Fashion Stylist, Creative Director, Design Consultant)
Carlos Nazario (Style Director at Large, Harper’s Bazaar US)
Corey Stokes (Creative Director)
Diane von Furstenberg (Founder, Philanthropist, and Author)
Emilie Rubinfeld (President, Carolina Herrera)
Shiona Turini (Fashion Consultant, Stylist, and Costume Designer)
Stephanie Horton (Global Consumer Marketing Director, Google)
Walter Frye (Chief Brand Officer, Amazon)