Images: Lani Tons for Jordan Brand
It’s been 32 years since the NBA All Star Game was played in the city of Chicago. The moment is set in history with images of the great Michael Jordan and the late Kobe Bryant. Back in 1988, I wasn’t even born yet so to be able to celebrate this iconic moment in history with Jordan Brand itself was something I never imagined. While, previewing the NBA All Star drops in New York, I found out that I was selected to be apart of this journey, never would I have thought that this journey would put me in the room with some of the most influential individuals in this space or that I would gain long-term connections and friendships. The journey ahead was nothing short of special.
Day 1, The Arrival - February 12, 2020
Day one started with us checking into the beautiful Londonhouse hotel in downtown Chicago. Upon arrival, we were greeted with some very fire exclusive sneakers in our room along with a suitcase with clothing from the new Jordan Women's Flight Utility collection. We then headed off to dinner at Duck Duck Goat. Wow, the food was amazing and it was the first night of us ladies feasting together and enjoying each others company.
We all went around the room and introduced ourselves amongst the VP's and more of Jordan Brand. We set our intentions for the week and headed off to a basketball game hosted by one of the ladies on the journey, Aleta Clark and Bri Smith. I took a trip to Joe Freshgoods friends and family opening.
Day 2, Future of Flight - February 13, 2020
Day two is when things really heated up for us. Today was the day we all would be hosting our sessions at local sneaker boutique SVRN, which served as the women's hub for all the All Star activities and releases. Today, was also the first day I ever hosted a panel in front of a large group. The inspiration for my panel was Complex's "Hot Ones" instead we had our guests eat mystery jelly beans and Warheads (A Chicago staple). Wow, what a moment I had on that stage, I felt extremely empowered to have people come out to see me chat with fashion owner Azeeza and with Red Stars Soccer player Sarah Gorden. Sessions were also hosted by Brittany Simone and Mia Lee.
Today, I knew that this is something I would like to pursue more of in the future. So, be on the lookout guys I may be coming to a panel near you. We also topped the night off with an event for our friends and family where the likes of Teyana Taylor, Kristen Noel Crawley, G Herbo and more came by. SVRN blessed us fearless females with a limited-edition editorial which I ended up signing a few.
To end the night we also visited Hub 23.
Friends + Family Event at SVRN
Day 3, Own Your Narrative - February 14, 2020
We rose early in the morning for breakfast and headed over to SVRN to support the only woman with a sneaker and apparel line in the 8x8 Collection, Sheila Rashid. You may have seen her work on Chance The Rapper and countless other celebrities. It was a great moment to come by and show love to our other fearless icon. Later that night, we attended Michael Jordan's exclusive birthday party.
Day 4 ,Foster Creativity - February 15, 2020
If you're not familiar with Healthy Hood, they offer affordable classes for everyone. There isn't a class more than $5 USD, their goal is to educate the mind and empower the people. Their owner/founder Tanya Lozano lead a fun dance class along with Jasmin Smith. This was actually my first time witness both of these ladies teach a class and the energy was so cool. I wish I was up for learning the choreo but your girl wasn't trying to sweat before the Dunk Contest.
Teyana Taylor also dropped by during the footworking class led by Lil Bit, who is a known footworker in the city of Chicago.
Day 5, Unite With Her - February 16, 2020
And last but not least was the Unite With Her Brunch. This was the highlight of my trip not only did I meet some people from Instagram in real life for the first time but the message and positivity was unmatched. Not only was the brunch attended by athletes, VP's and GM's but by people like myself who are passionate about the brand and spreading awareness. It was an unexplainable feeling to be in a room and feel comfortable and feel like you actually belong there. For a long time I've struggled with my own idea of myself. Did I belong here? Do I have imposter syndrome? Is this worth it? This day I felt like what I was doing was recognized, I was motivated more than ever to keep going.
To the ladies in the room who shared their stories, you are heard and you are appreciated. Thank you for giving us you this day, it's something I'll never forget.
And to my fearless women who shared this journey with me! Thank you for being open and embracing me as I did you. This is something will forever bond us together and I wish you all the best on your journey!
In the words of Jordan Brand, "Impossible Alone, possible together."