Newark, NJ [July 7, 2022] Just eleven short months ago, first-year students arrived at the Newark School of Fashion & Design (NSFD) having limited to no sewing skills. By the time of the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Fashion Competition in Spring 2022, twelve students created their custom-designed formal wear and placed in the Gold, Silver, and Bronze categories. NSFD also took home the State's Northern Region Membership Award for 2022! 

One NSFD freshman, Sa’Kayla Mclendon, proceeded to the National Leadership Conference in San Diego, California held June 29, 2022 - July 3, 2022, and won First Place in the Fashion Competition.

Superintendent Leon stated, “We are very proud of Sa’Kayla.  She, like her peers at NSFD, are talented and they are influencing the world of fashion, and in such a short period of time.”

Every year, FCCLA members from across the country gather to network with fellow members, attend leadership workshops, take part in competitive events, explore career pathways, and learn from industry experts. FCCLA's National Leadership Conference Fashion Show showcased exemplary fashion garments created by student members from across the country! 

Principal of NSFD, Sakina Pitts shared “Proud is an understatement! My expectations are extremely high for my students, and Sa’Kayla's 1st place National win is a testament to the impact being made here at the Newark School of Fashion & Design in just one year.”

Ms. Posey, teacher of Art Education at NSFD shared “All things are possible for those who have a willing heart." 

Sa’Kayla Mclendon, FCCLA National 1st place winner shared "I was nervous, but I prayed. In the end, it was unbelievable that I won 1st place and haven't even been sewing for a full year yet! I went to California to represent my school and my City. So, it felt good to bring home the win!"

Akima Mclendon, mother of Sa’Kayla who also attended the event shared "All of your hard work and dedication paid off! You went to California to represent your school and your City! So, The Sky's the Limit!"

Board President Dawn Haynes said “ I am so happy that other parts of the country get to see how truly talented students from Newark are. The opportunity to compete in California is amazing and bringing home 1st place sets the standard. Congratulations to Sa’Kayla and NSFD.”