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PEARL OF EXCELLENE IN FASHION AND MODELING LEGACY
Beverly Peele is an internationally recognized supermodel who helped redefine beauty standards during the late 1980s and 1990s. Beginning her modeling career at age 12, she appeared on hundreds of magazine covers, including Vogue, Elle, and Cosmopolitan, and worked with major fashion houses such as Versace, Ralph Lauren, and Donna Karan.

Today, she continues to share her modeling experience through mentorship and confidence-building initiatives, inspiring aspiring models to develop their presence and embrace their individuality

PEARL OF EXCELLENCE IN FASHION STORYTELLING & CULTURAL PRESERVATION

Isoul Harris is an accomplished journalist, editor, and cultural commentator whose career spans entertainment, fashion, luxury lifestyle, and media. He has served as Editor-in-Chief of UPTOWN Magazine, Entertainment Editor at Upscale, and a contributor to publications including People, InStyle, and Vibe. His interviews have featured cultural icons such as Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, and Beyoncé.

A former educator, Harris has helped shape conversations about Black culture, representation, and storytelling through print, television, and digital media.

PEARL OF EXCELLENCE IN ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP

Taliah Waajid is a pioneering entrepreneur, master cosmetologist, and founder of the Taliah Waajid natural hair care brand. She began her entrepreneurial journey at age 14 and later developed one of the first complete product lines specifically designed for natural, chemical-free hair.

She is also the founder of the World Natural Hair, Health & Beauty Show, a major platform celebrating natural beauty, entrepreneurship, and cultural identity. Recognized on Inc.'s 2023 Female Founders 200 list, Waajid continues to empower women through business ownership, education, and mentorship.

PEARL OF EXCELLENCE IN ENTERTAINMENT JOURNALISM & CULTURAL STORYTELLING

Ray Cornelius is an accomplished entertainment journalist, media personality, producer, and cultural storyteller whose career has been dedicated to celebrating Black excellence in television, film, music, theater, and the arts.

As the founder of RayCornelius.com, established in 2012, he created a platform highlighting positive stories and achievements within the African American entertainment community.

Cornelius is also recognized for creating, producing, and hosting UPFRONT: Inside Atlanta's Entertainment Industry on Jazz 91.9 WCLK, where he brought audiences compelling interviews with prominent entertainers, filmmakers, artists, and cultural leaders.

PEARL OF EXCELLENCE IN FASHION EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP 

Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds, widely known as "The Dean of Fashion," is a fashion educator, business strategist, and industry leader with more than two decades of experience across fashion, higher education, and luxury brand development.

He previously served in academic leadership at The Art Institute of Atlanta, helping develop fashion education programs and advance institutional accreditation. He is also Senior Fashion Editor at Upscale Magazine, doctoral faculty at Capella University, and founder of CAH & Co., where he advises brands and creative enterprises.

PEARL OF EXCELLENCE IN FASHION PRODUCTION AND TALENT DEVELOPMENT Michelle Lynch is an Atlanta-based fashion producer, celebrity stylist, and owner and creative director of Poshe Productions. Her career encompasses fashion show production, styling, and talent development.

She began her fashion journey as a model with Macy's before transitioning into behind-the-scenes production. Her experience includes national fashion events and a decade of touring with television personality Clinton Kelly. Through Poshe Productions, she brings creative direction, industry expertise, and professional opportunities to the fashion community

PEARL OF EXCELLENCE IN ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Jamilah Muhammad is a proud alumna of A Lady Named Pearl Foundation and a former scholarship recipient  whose journey reflects the organization's commitment to empowering young women through confidence, leadership, and personal development.

As a graduate of the modeling program, Jamilah represents the next generation of Pearls who have embraced opportunities to grow, develop their talents, and pursue their aspirations.

Her recognition with the Pearl of Excellence Alumni Achievement Award celebrates her journey and the lasting impact of investing in the potential of young women.