Grand Rapids local, my focus is on sustainable textile design. I have two sustainable labels Breon Aries and IBHB.
I’ve been designing for over 13 years. I’ve a had a design studio, but after the pandemic had a lot of financial hardships taking care of my grandfather that passed this year. I couldn’t get approved for business loans due to my debt to income ratio from MSU, it’s been a struggle to land a textile design job and many doors have been slammed in my face, but I continue to not give up. I have a beautiful 3 year old daughter that’s looking up to me, so if I was selected this money would help me get the tools I need to expand my business and help me move a step further in my design career.