Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chekesha Johnson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Chekesha, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you recount a story of an unexpected problem you’ve faced along the way?

In the fashion and modeling industry, your job is solely based on your appearance. The shape of your body heavily determines beauty. It’s full of rejection and can be tough on a person’s self-esteem. I started my career in an era where models were pushed to be a size 0 or size 2. My biggest struggle was my curves. The first agency I worked for in New York would measure me every time I walked in. They wanted me to lose 2 inches in my hips even though I was already skinny. They gave me meal plans and tried to force me into hiring some expensive celebrity trainers. They ended up dropping me because of my size a few years later. Luckily, my resume and portfolio were strong enough to get me immediately signed by two other agencies who believed in me. I’ve been able to last this long in the industry because times have changed. It is more inclusive now, focusing on digital advertisements, which opened the doors for more opportunities.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am the founder and CEO of Fashion Showdown. This platform is a design competition where local designers showcase their talents and gain exposure in the fashion industry. What sets us apart from other fashion shows is our selection of one lucky winner who earns a grand prize package of an all-expense-paid trip to New York Fashion Week and cash to start their new collection. I am proud to have created a space for designers to feel like their work is appreciated by honoring them and contributing to their dreams. After every show, it makes me happy knowing I provided a different experience they will remember forever. In addition to the show, our company offers industry workshops, model boot camps, runway coaching, and commercial consultations. The merchandise of our motto, “Fashion is not Dead,” is available on our website.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Organizers, such as myself, host these fashion shows to provide a form of advertisement that is relatively costly to the average creator. These shows aim to expose consumers to designers you wouldn’t typically see in your department stores. Society can support these creatives by keeping designers in mind when it’s time to purchase your next outfit for that special event or whenever you’re in the mood for some retail therapy. Fashion shows aren’t just a place to get dressed up to be seen by your peers; it’s where creatives compete for consumer support against notable designer brands.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Twenty years is a long time to be in this industry, and I’m grateful to still thrive in my career. However, I’m ready to pass the baton to the next generation and give them the guidance and financial support they need to compete with major designer brands. My goal is for Fashion Showdown to become a combination of “America’s Next Top Model” and “Project Runway” on steroids. We will be an internationally recognized brand that people get excited about when they hear we are coming to a city near them.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thefashionshowdown.com/
• Instagram: @fashionshowdown
• Facebook: The Fashion Showdown
• Youtube: Fashion Showdown

Image Credits
Terry Thomas Photography