A Dazzling Display of Style, Creativity, and Youthful Vision: South Florida Fashion Academy Hosts 3rd Annual Portfolio Review & Runway Show

Get ready for lights, cameras, and couture as Fort Lauderdale prepares to roll out the red carpet for one of the most vibrant fashion events of the year! The 3rd Annual Portfolio Review & Student Fashion Runway Show, hosted by the South Florida Fashion Academy (SFFA), is set to make waves on the rooftop of the sleek new YMCA South Florida venue (1409 NW 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311). Taking place amid the glowing South Florida sunset, this runway spectacle is more than just a fashion show—it’s a celebration of youth innovation, sustainable style, and the bold beauty of tomorrow's trendsetters.

Strutting down the runway with attitude and ambition, middle and high school students will debut the collections they've spent all year crafting—each stitch telling a story of passion, purpose, and possibility. Expect an electric blend of eco-conscious fashion, jaw-dropping design portfolios, and forward-thinking beauty products that will leave attendees inspired and in awe.

Fashionistas, influencers, media pros, and glam-loving locals are all invited to witness the next generation of South Florida fashion and beauty creatives as they transform the rooftop into a high-energy fashion house.

“Our students have worked relentlessly over the past several months to develop brand new beauty products and fashion collections that they are incredibly proud of and excited to share with the world,” says Taj McGill, the powerhouse founder and director behind SFFA.

But the runway won’t just belong to the older students—this year’s event features a show-stealing twist. Students from Innovative Heights Preparatory School—yes, including bright-eyed kindergarteners—will join the spotlight with their very own line of beauty products. From mini moguls in first grade to budding chemists in fifth, these young prodigies will host pop-up shops and product debuts, showcasing creativity beyond their years and proving that innovation knows no age.

As the spotlight pans across the rooftop, the energy will rise with a riveting live dance performance, adding rhythm and soul to the evening’s fashion-forward festivities. Then comes the highlight of the night: the highly anticipated Designer of The Year Award.

With suspense and sparkle in the air, the winner will be revealed live by McGill herself, along with a scholarship to support the student’s ongoing fashion journey.

Taj McGill at 'Thrive' Las Olas Statue

“This year’s recipient for the DOTY won’t be revealed until the night of the event, but I can say the student is quite the innovative fashion creative,” McGill teases.

Founded in 2019, the South Florida Fashion Academy is more than a school—it’s a launchpad. With a curriculum that blends design, entrepreneurship, and academics, SFFA allows students to begin their fashion journey as early as sixth grade.

“Creatives shouldn't have to wait until college to start learning fashion design,” says McGill. “They can start building their dreams with us now.”

For those seeking an unforgettable night of fashion, inspiration, and community—this is your runway moment. General admission tickets start at $25 and can be purchased online at southfloridafashionacademy.com/events-and-courses.

To inquire about media passes, influencer tickets, or press opportunities, please contact Samantha@Savory-PR.com or call 305.582.5997.

DATE: May 30, 2025

TIME: 5pm to 8pm

VENUE: Rooftop YMCA of South Florida

ADDRESS:  1409 NW 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311