By: Isabel Barroso, Videographer, Christian Harris, Videographer, and Maggie Rabel, Videographer

Edited by: Carter Goodson, Studio Assistant Coordinator

MOUNT BERRY, Ga. – Berry College’s annual Solidarity Week came to a close Friday, Sept. 19, with vibrant cultural fashion show that celebrated the diversity of the student body. 

The event featured a variety of outfits representing cultures from around the world. Each participant had freedom to create an outfit to represent their culture. Junior Love Eguren said that the show inspired her to step out of her comfort zone.

“I don’t usually dress like this but I do love creativity,” Egure said. “And I was like, OK, let’s try something new…I might try to make more wild pieces going forth!”

Lois Ibeh, who shared the runway with Egure, wore a red beret and a bejeweled tie. She said her design carried an important message. 

“I really hope our piece shows unity,” Ibeh said. “We are all different people from different backgrounds…When we come together, we’re definitely stronger.”

The show was met with enthusiasm from the audience, who lined the runway, cheered and shouted the names of participants. Caroline Mayo, a Freshman at Berry College, expressed her excitement from witnessing her very first fashion show. 

“It was just seeing everybody being able to express themselves so openly and be excited about,” Mayo expressed. “The energy was really high and I liked that.”

The theme of the show, and of Solidarity week overall, focused on the importance of unity across campus, encouraging students to embrace their identities and support one another.” Senior Ananya Achari shared how her outfit reflected her feelings on the week’s message. 

“I think that because I am very open to representing myself and where I’m from, that hasn’t always been easy for me, so Solidarity Week was a perfect way for me to feel comfortable in myself and where I’m from, through this outfit.,” Achari said. 

With its mix of fashion, music and student pride, the cultural fashion show offered a joyful end to a week centered on togetherness. Students and organizers alike said the event highlighted the strength that comes from embracing diversity and building solidarity on campus.