#United States #Baltimore #BCYF #STRUT XII #AZIZA PECE

Empowering the Next Generation: STRUT XII

On March 15, 2025, the highly anticipated annual STRUT showcase, themed I'm On A New Level, will take center stage at the Baltimore Convention Center from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. This significant event is organized by AZIZA PECE in collaboration with the Baltimore Children & Youth Fund (BCYF). STRUT XII is not merely a fashion show; it represents a vital movement that promotes self-expression, empowerment, and leadership among youth through the mediums of art and advocacy.

BCYF, committed to uplifting the underserved youth of Baltimore, is a crucial supporter of AZIZA PECE's initiatives, which aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. As a testimony to the effectiveness of youth development programs, the event underscores how these initiatives lead to substantial improvements in both the lives of individual youths and the broader community.

A Celebration of Creativity and Mental Health

As the crowning finale of AZIZA PECE's flagship after-school program, Illuminate, STRUT XII will showcase the artistic growth, leadership development, and personal achievements of program participants, primarily focused on Black girls and LGBTQ+ youth. The expected attendance of over 2,000 individuals speaks volumes about the excitement generated by this one-of-a-kind event, which promises an array of captivating runway presentations, dynamic performances, and heartfelt stories shared by the young participants who have dedicated months to personal and artistic development.

Alysia Lee, President and CEO of BCYF, highlights the vision behind STRUT XII. "BCYF is dedicated to ensuring that Baltimore's youth have access to transformative opportunities that nurture their talents and voices. STRUT XII is a shining example of what happens when young people are given the resources, mentorship, and space to lead, create, and inspire," Lee explains.

Merging Fashion with Social Advocacy

At its core, STRUT XII aims to intertwine the realms of fashion and advocacy, emphasizing the essential relationship between mental health, creative expression, and leadership development. The event acts as a platform for young artists to showcase their skills while simultaneously challenging societal norms. Importantly, it provides a decisive stage for marginalized youth to tell their stories and drive impactful changes within their communities.

The overarching themes to be explored during STRUT XII include:

• - Highlighting Impact: Celebrating the journey and achievements of participants from the Illuminate program, showcasing their growth.
• - Bridging Arts and Mental Health: A focus on integrating fashion, performance, and creative therapy as tools for healing and empowerment.
• - Launching Pathways to Success: Establishing connections between youth and industry professionals, providing mentorship, and opening doors in the fashion and entertainment sectors.
• - Catalyzing Social Change: Taking a stand against societal norms, amplifying marginalized voices, and nurturing intergenerational community support.
• - Fostering Civic Engagement: Equipping youth with the capabilities to advocate for themselves and their communities through artistic articulation and activism.

By supporting STRUT XII, BCYF continues to fulfill its mission of empowering Baltimore's youth through grassroots initiatives. The fund drives both equity and opportunity for future generations, seeking to have a transformative influence through creative expression and mental health awareness.

Join the Movement

STRUT XII presents an invaluable opportunity for individuals passionate about youth empowerment, social justice, and innovative expression. The event will bring together a diverse array of attendees, including corporate leaders, investors, elected officials, media professionals, and community advocates, all united by the commitment to foster a more equitable future for Baltimore's youth.

AZIZA PECE warmly invites brands, sponsors, and media to join this impactful initiative that directly influences the lives of young individuals through education and mental health resources. Tickets for the STRUT XII event are readily available on their official website, and inquiries on sponsorship or media credentials can be directed to the provided contact information.

For additional details on AZIZA PECE, visit AZIZA PECE Website or follow them on Instagram. To learn more about the Baltimore Children & Youth Fund, check out BCYF Website. For media inquiries, reach out to Marilynn Elie at the provided email address.

About BCYF

The Baltimore Children & Youth Fund was established in 2015 to champion initiatives that focus on generating opportunities for the youth of Baltimore. Following the social unrest in Baltimore due to the death of Freddie Gray, this fund highlighted the significant financial gaps in support for Black communities. Supported by taxpayer contributions, BCYF has since awarded over $31 million to countless programs dedicated to serving the needs of children and youth in Baltimore.