As a graduating English major at Spelman College Fennella Miller has always had a passion for fashion. Fennella has created fashion blogs as well as a YouTube channel, Fennella Like Whoa, where she presents her affinity for creativity and spoken word. Many people, including her professors and mentors, noticed her superb leadership skills, and she started her own fashion arts organization on campus. One semester, she decided to take a break and reevaluate her purpose. She used this time to map out her fashion arts organization so that fashion arts can make a difference on campus. Thus, Echelon Twelve was born.
On Saturday, Sept. 12, a new arts and fashion club was presented to the Atlanta University Center. With an Executive Board of 12 members, Echelon Twelve's ambition is to harvest and present the creative skills that are abundant throughout the AUC.
Echelon Twelve "Conception" gracefully promoted art expression in the form of painting, music, drawing, spoken word, and fashion. The event was an all-black affair—a social gathering of those who enjoy creativity. The atmosphere was set with energetic music and a classic red carpet that was open to both aspirants and amateurs. During the event there were two artists creating paintings and another artist drawing portraits of anyone who sat in front of her. The creative mood was further enhanced by the music produced entirely in house.
The amount of support for the organization and the founder was overwhelming, with both Fenella's friends and AUC students eager to join. Currently, Echelon Twelve has gained over 100 organization members in just two months.
When asked about the various art forms used in her event and the organization, Fennella responded, "Our culture has used the arts to reverence deity figures. I understand that the arts can be used for symbolic things. Dancing and Fashion can have a deeper meaning to it."
"You have to be selfless when serving other people," said Fennella when describing the purpose of Echelon Twelve. Fennella has a sincere passion for service; this organization is not only geared toward fashion, she also plans to serve the community in any way that she can. Her central goal for this organization is not only to inspire other students to be involved, but to urge them to serve their community in every creative aspect.
Through social media and the positive vibe Fenella Miller and Echelon Twelve brings to the AUC, there are great things that will be happening soon. Fenella will be hosting a blogging session on Sept. 23 in which she will teach about how one can use social media to implement strategy and explain the many benefits of blogging. Echelon Twelve will have several events during homecoming to promote street styles and has plans for other events throughout the school year.
