‘Spring Odyssey: A Cultural Fashion Canvas’ A Personal Reflection

By Samuel Boucher

I’ve always considered myself an advocate for self-expression and a huge admirer of anyone who can unapologetically be themselves. I think those kinds of people have always inspired me specifically because I wasn’t really allowed to be my authentic self growing up, and most of the time, I felt like my talents and true potential weren’t being realized. Now, I’m at a place in my life where I can express myself freely and be as creative as I want. One of my main aspirations right now is to create spaces where everyone feels encouraged to be themselves and they’re not judged for sharing their art, their talents, and their history. That notion was the driving factor for me to create The Modeling Club here at Lehman. 

My Co-President Jaime & I created The Lehman Modeling Club with one unwavering goal: to create a diverse community where everyone would feel encouraged to use the space and platforms we provide to express themselves artistically beyond their own aspirations. When coming up with the idea of ‘Spring Odyssey: A Cultural Fashion Canvas,’ we knew we had to maintain our motto of inclusivity when approaching this ambitious project. It was only after we reflected on interacting with the diverse community of Lehman Students during our first semester as club leaders that inspired the infusion of various cultures within the Spring aesthetic of the Show. 

We were inspired to title the fashion show ‘Spring Odyssey’ after observing the participants’ of this project. Everyone’s hard work, resilience, and, above all, their growth from the start of this process to the day of the show was remarkable and inspirational. Just seeing how much a person can learn about themselves, not just as it relates to interpersonal teamwork skills, but how much they can accomplish if they simply believe in themselves. Every person involved in the fashion show left as a more realized, powerful, and proud version of the person they came in as on day one of auditions. 

I knew from the beginning that I didn’t want us all doing the same thing; there’s too much talent in the Lehman Community to showcase in only one way. In addition to the models, there were Singers, Dancers, Spoken Word Artists, Style Crew, Light Crew, Sound Crew, Run Crew, Building Crew, Decorators, Ushers, Photographers, and Videographers, all of whom were incredible Lehman Students. They all possess their very own unique style and swag, and that’s what made this particular project so different and legendary. No single individual involved in this production is like another, I wanted everyone to embrace their uniqueness and be proud of their purpose, growth, imperfections, and undeniable talent. I’m most proud of the relationships that were created through this experience, the sense of belonging, and the family that blossomed through all the ups and downs. We intended for everyone who came to view our show to see themselves in at least one person involved in ‘Spring Odyssey’ and say, “I can do that too.” 

I hope everyone involved is aware of how much their contribution to this project has positively impacted campus life at Lehman and knows they are now a part of an amazing legacy. Thank you to everyone who supported us throughout this process. Rest assured…this is not the last you’ll hear from The Lehman Modeling Club!