Transcend the Runway Highlights Youth Creativity and Community Support During DreamWeek
By Jules Aldaz
Photography by Bethany Castro
Transcend the Runway brought youthful energy and a strong sense of purpose to DreamFash and DreamWeek San Antonio overall, showcasing young designers, performers, and creatives while simultaneously supporting mentorship and community engagement.
Produced and hosted by “kid reporter” Arion King and couture designer Reagan Quiroga — ages 11 and 9, respectively — the youth-led fashion show welcomed arriving guests with music, photo moments, and stunning design work. Throughout the afternoon, the runway featured a wide range of designers: Young Kingsman, Babs Boutique, Fox & Tots, HeartWear by JC, APE Life, Unique I Am, J Michelle, Julianna Corazon, and upcoming designers from John Jay High School. Enchanting audiences with their musical performances were Jeremiah Moga, Kiki, and Young Zaire, along with a dance performance by Zoey May, highlighting the diversity of talent among the young creatives.
During the second half of the show, attention turned to the Marisol Deluna Foundation, a beneficiary of the event. A portion of ticket sales was donated to the foundation, and Deluna, a New York-based fashion designer and artist who spent part of her childhood in San Antonio, was in attendance for the formal announcement. She reflected on her passion for the foundation, and her commitment to helping young women and men work toward their goal of earning careers in the arts and fashion industries. Deluna also took time to acknowledge the parents in the room, expressing appreciation for those who continue to support their children’s creative journeys by showing up and staying involved.
The organization partnered with FBN (Fashion Business Network) to expand its outreach and strengthen its mentorship efforts. The partnership focuses on collaboration and creating meaningful opportunities for young creatives to gain experience in their craft. Foundation members Jolene Crisp and Frankie Rivera were both in attendance during the event, their presence reflecting the hands-on involvement that helped make Transcend the Runway possible. There were also talented volunteers from FBN present who worked tirelessly on every aspect of the show; just one more part of a larger effort centered on community, learning, and support.
The show concluded with a finale walk featuring all designers, followed by closing remarks recognizing sponsors, Kaia Dublin and her FBN team, and DreamFash advisors. By the end of the afternoon, Transcend the Runway had delivered far more than a fashion show: it offered a burgeoning platform for young voices, highlighted the importance of mentorship, and demonstrated how creative, inclusive events can make a real community impact.
For additional information on The Marisol Deluna Foundation, please go to @marisol_deluna_new_york and Transcend the Runway @transcend.runway on Instagram.
