Local kids took center stage on Oct. 30, during ADHD Awareness Month, to show off their style and business skills at an evening in St. Paul that combined fashion and empowerment.
The second annual Fresh ADHD Awareness Fashion Show at the History Theatre was inspired by 12-year-old Jalaya Pierce, who lives with ADHD. “We came up with the concept of having a fashion show where she can show off some of the outfits she puts together,” said June Pierce, event organizer and Jalaya’s mom. “She wanted to do it for kids to get them involved in the industry.”
The Fresh Fashion Show on Oct. 30 drew about 70 attendees who watched 15 young models highlight the distinct theme. “My daughter said, ‘I want to do fresh, like Fresh Prince,’” said June.
Jalaya said she also wanted to show how a diagnosis should never define anyone. “I’ve been bullied since elementary school,” Jalaya said. “People didn’t treat me right because I act different and look different, but I learned to accept myself.” Wearing a green sequined dress, Jalaya showcased her own confidence on the runway while reminding others of their worth. “They are perfect just the way they are.”
The show delivered on its 90s theme and provided plenty of memorable moments for the audience, including an amusing encounter with retro technology.
“One little girl didn’t know what to do with the pager she had,” June laughed. “There were big hoop earrings, flannels wrapped around the waist, and it all really struck the people in here.”
Along with walking the runway, several young attendees showcased their entrepreneurial gifts, selling everything from bracelets and slime to hats, lip gloss, and keychains. Jalaya also sold her book titled “Jalaya Origins: Before Strings and Sparks,” which is about ADHD and how Jalaya transforms into a superhero to help others feel welcome in her community.
“Part of ADHD and what we want to do is allow these kids to share their gifts and their abilities and let them know they can be entrepreneurs,” June said.
Beyond the clothes and commerce, the event took a deeply meaningful turn with an educational presentation designed to spark conversation and understanding around neurodiversity.
“We showed an animation about ADHD and got people's perspective on what they thought about it,” June said. “ADHD means different things to different people.”
The message resonated powerfully with the adults in the room, creating an atmosphere of shared empathy and reflection.
“I’ve had people say to me, ‘I was diagnosed a lot later in life and wished I had known earlier,’” June shared. “The video was a sobering moment, to what we’re actually here for, to bring the flashlight back to what this is and how to offer the empathy and support that kids need.”
As the fashion show wrapped and guests headed home, the event proved a lasting lesson: confidence, community, and empathy will always be in style.
