On Friday, October 3, 2025, the Andréa W. & Kenneth C. Frazier Family Foundation hosted a luncheon at Victoria Paris during Paris Fashion Week to celebrate the announcement of the second edition of the Empowered Vision Award, an award created in partnership with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA).

The event welcomed guests, including CFDA CEO and President Steven Kolb, industry leaders such as Rajni Jacques (Snapchat), Sherri McMullen (McMullen), and editors like Nikki Ogunnaike (Marie Claire) and Naomi Elizée (Vogue). Jewelry designers Bernard James and Ashley Moubayed, both CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Finalists, were also in attendance.

Selection Committee member Edward Buchanan joined the gathering, underscoring the award’s commitment to mentorship. He is joined on the 2025 committee by Walter Frye, Imaan Hammam, Alastair McKimm, Carlos Nazario, Bruce Pask, Emilie Rubinfeld, and Shiona Turini.

The luncheon offered a chance to connect with industry leaders and highlight the growing visibility of the award. With the ceremony scheduled for December, the Paris gathering helped set the stage for continued conversation around opportunity for emerging Black designers.

The application for designers is now open through October 31st. Click here to apply.