Today, the Andréa W. and Kenneth C. Frazier Family Foundation and the CFDA revealed the four finalists for the second Empowered Vision Award.

They are Daveed Baptiste, Keith Herron of Advisry, Nana Kwame Adusei of Kwame Adusei, and Edvin Thompson of Theophilio.

The award is focused on supporting emerging Black designers through a $100,000 financial grant and a year-long mentorship program valued at an additional $100,000. The initiative’s goal is to foster innovation and promote equity in the fashion industry while providing Black designers with essential resources to expand their brands and compete on a global stage. 

The 2025 finalists have each demonstrated the creativity, resilience, and vision that the Empowered Vision Award was created to champion.

“This year’s finalists embody the bold creativity, cultural intention, committed craftsmanship, and business acumen that define the Empowered Vision Award. Each of them reflect a level of craft, storytelling, and fearless experimentation that made this year’s judging process incredibly close and tough to call,” said Milton Dixon III, Program Director of the Empowered Vision Award. “We’re grateful to our selection committee for their time, insight, and thoughtful feedback, and I’m excited to hear their perspectives as we get to know the designers better during our next round of in-person deliberations. We’re so proud to champion these designers and thrilled for what’s ahead.”

The winner of the Empowered Vision Award will be announced at a reception and cocktail event on December 11 at the W Union Square.

Members of the 2025 Selection Committee are:

• Edward Buchanan – Artistic Director and Cultural Advocate
• Walter Frye – Global Director of Brand & Retail Marketing, Amazon
• Imaan Hammam – Supermodel
• Alastair McKimm – Fashion and Image Director at Large of Vogue FR, Stylist & Creative Director
• Carlos Nazario – Style Director at Large of Harper’s Bazaar US,  Editor & Stylist
• Emilie Ruinfeld – Global President, Carolina Herrera
• Bruce Pask – Senior Director, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus
• Shiona Turini – Emmy Award winning Costume Designer