Latina Image Mi Voz Fashion Show Empowers the Next Generation of Young Women

Published: Apr 21, 2026 - 8:57 a.m.

By Marra Ingram

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CLEVELAND, Ohio — "Hola, mi nombre es Marra Ingram. Bienvenidos…" With a warm and vibrant welcome, the Latina Image Mi Voz Fashion Show opened as more than just an event. It became a celebration of identity, confidence and the power of being heard. Hosted at the Julia De Burgos Cultural Arts Center, the Latina Image program is a six-month leadership initiative designed to empower young Latina women ages 13 to 17 through mentorship, education and personal development. Throughout the program, participants are guided through experiences that build not only their external confidence, but their internal sense of purpose and self-worth. The transformation seen onstage did not happen overnight. The day before the show, during dress rehearsal, the room carried a different kind of energy, filled with nerves, anticipation and quiet focus. Participants practiced their walks, adjusted their posture, and ran through each segment with determination. There were moments of laughter, encouragement and reassurance as they prepared for the spotlight. You could feel it. This was not just about getting the steps right. It was about building confidence in real time. By the time the doors opened the following day, that nervous energy had shifted into excitement, pride and readiness. While the evening highlighted fashion and style, the true focus was growth, leadership and self-expression, bringing the meaning of "Mi Voz," or "My Voice," to life in a powerful and visible way. The event featured three distinct segments that showcased the participants' development throughout the program, each one reflecting a different layer of their journey. The show began with casual wear, where participants modeled Latina Image T-shirts paired with jeans. This segment allowed their personalities to shine in a relaxed and authentic way, giving the audience a glimpse into who they are beyond the stage. Smiles, confidence and individuality filled the room as each young woman embraced her moment. They then transitioned into their interview looks, presenting themselves with confidence and professionalism. This portion of the show highlighted more than just appearance. It reflected the communication, leadership and self-presentation skills they have spent months developing. Each walk across the stage carried intention, demonstrating growth in both presence and voice. The final segment brought elegance to the stage as participants modeled evening gowns, walking with poise and confidence. The transformation was undeniable. From their posture to their expressions, each participant embodied grace, discipline and self-assurance, clear indicators of the impact the program has had on their development. Beyond the runway, the event created a full community experience. Family, friends and supporters filled the room with encouragement, creating a space where each participant felt seen and celebrated. Raffles, audience engagement and shared moments of excitement added to the overall atmosphere, making the evening feel both intimate and electric. The energy in the space was undeniable, an atmosphere filled with pride, celebration and connection. It was not just about watching a show. It was about witnessing growth in real time. For many of the participants, this moment represented more than just a performance. It was the result of months of dedication, stepping outside of comfort zones, and learning to embrace their voices in a world that does not always create space for them. "This program is about giving these young women a voice and the confidence to use it," said Yasin Cuevas, director of Latina Image. "We're not just preparing them for the stage. We're preparing them for life." Programs like Latina Image Mi Voz continue to play a vital role in Cleveland by creating space for representation, empowerment and cultural pride. In a time when visibility and voice matter more than ever, initiatives like this remind young women that they are powerful, capable and worthy of being heard. As the night came to a close, one message stood above the rest, clear, intentional and deeply felt throughout the room: This was not just a fashion show. It was a platform. A purpose. A voice. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.