The Joy of Fashion: Eki’s Vision of Community, Creativity, and Connection

With the forthcoming Joy of Fashion community exhibition on August 16th, Rocky Mount is set to experience a lively celebration of individuality and regional talent. Eki, a creative visionary whose goal is to empower and uplift others via art, fashion, and spirituality, is at the center of this occasion.

“It started as more of an assignment and I chose to be obedient,” Eki said. “As an artist and creative, I truly lean on God for guidance and direction, and this vision was placed on my heart.”

For Eki, creativity is more than art, it’s a path to healing, empowerment, and purpose. “My life’s purpose is to show people how powerful they are through dance and fashion, helping them build self-esteem and realize that by being creative, they can follow their dreams," she said.  "We all have the ability to manifest the desires of our hearts by tapping in.”

The show is also rooted in a shared dream with her fiancé, Charles Roberson, who had a vision of bringing an arts district to downtown Rocky Mount, specifically Howard Street. "The Joy of Fashion is a part of that vision, with hopes of making it an annual event,” she said.

To bring the show to life, Eki partnered with a key figure in the Rocky Mount fashion scene, Rita Mozell Barrett, who Eki describes as a dynamic fashion icon and community advocate here in Rocky Mount. "I shared the vision with her, and we collaborated to bring it to life by featuring local talent," she said "There is so much creativity in this city that deserves to be seen and celebrated.”

This will be the first Joy of Fashion event in Rocky Mount, but Eki is no stranger to the stage. The last show she worked on was choreographing a 10-minute piece for the Motown Review just last year. "Shoutout to the Juneteenth Empowerment Committee for that opportunity," she said. "I brought together children and adults, many of whom had never danced on stage before." She revealed that they were given a standing ovation during their performance at the Imperial Centre.

When asked about the message behind the show, her response was simple and powerful: “JOY.”

That message radiates throughout every part of the process, from rehearsals to runway. “The energy is joyful, supportive, and full of anticipation for the big day!" she said.  "It’s beautiful to watch everyone cheering one another on.”

Eki emphasizes that this is about more than fashion, it’s about building a creative and connected community. “This event will ignite passion, joy, shared goals, connection, hope, and excitement," she said. "It will inspire belief that so many beautiful things are happening here in Rocky Mount.”

It is deliberate to concentrate on the local area. According to Eki, Rocky Mount is a city full of talent, and the more people encourage and exhibit each other, the more this lovely city will flourish. She considers that It is important to provide local artists regular chances to showcase their talents.

That support is already making a visible impact, since children, teens, and adults are going to be modeling on August 16th. "Many of them have already shown so much growth in confidence," she said. "They can’t wait to strut down that runway!”

She sees fashion as more than clothing, it's a powerful language of identity and emotion. “Fashion creates ideas, exudes confidence, and sparks creativity," she said. "It’s a powerful tool for self-expression and connection.”

Despite the complexity of putting together an event like this, Eki shared that things have fallen into place.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team, which includes Rita Mozell Barrettis and Charles Roberson, are making the magic happen. “We also have over 20 models, more than 10 dynamic vendors, and a few dedicated local volunteers helping us bring this vision to life,” she said.

As August 16th approaches, Eki has one clear hope for those attending: “We want the audience to feel joy. To experience unity in the community through fashion and to have an amazing time while celebrating what's to come.”

That future includes even bigger dreams. “We’re continuing our fundraiser to build a community center in Southeast Rocky Mount,” she shared, pointing to a video about the project. She’s also working with the Imperial Centre and A Caring Heart Case Management to bring the Joy of Dance to even more people.

 “This show demonstrates one of the creative ways we’ll foster healing through the arts at the center," she said. "It’s a glimpse of the transformation we’re excited to bring to Southeast Rocky Mount.”

Perhaps the most rewarding part for Eki is watching a vision come to life, one rooted in service, unity, and hope. “Staying in alignment with a vision placed on my heart and seeing how it aligns with my fiancé Charles Roberson’s broader vision of establishing an arts district on Howard Street,” she said.

For young creatives, her advice is heartfelt and empowering: “Just start! Put your art out there. Find your community. Post your work on social media. Get out of your comfort zone. Whether you’re performing for an audience of one or thousands, be consistent and stay true to your vision.”