In the heart of Madison, Umoja Magazine made an ambitious leap by partnering with Ashro, a celebrated company affiliated with Colony Brands, to craft a unique dress made of paper for the Madison Reading Project Inc. fundraiser. This was a first for both organizations to enter this 8-year event that raises money to promote reading and literacy in Madison and the surrounding communities.
The challenge was simple yet captivating: construct a dress comprised of at least 90% paper using materials such as magazine pages, newspapers, cardboard etc., select a model and enter a contest to achieve 2025 bragging rights for creativity. Accepting this challenge would also provide promotional opportunities at the well-attended event. With Ashro’s reputation for exceptional designs featuring African-American culture, the collaboration promised to be a powerful statement of creativity and unity.
Preparation began by gathering past magazine issues from both Ashro and Umoja, offering a wellspring of vibrant colors, textures, and inspiring narratives. The team dove into the artistic tasks, tearing pages, folding them into intricate shapes, and employing techniques like crimping and hole-punching. Ideas flowed as fluidly as the sheets of paper scattered around the team. Suggestions filled the air with everything from dress designs to accessories, ultimately deciding to add a chic hat and a purse to complement the creation.
After a few Zoom sessions in late April and May, the Ashro team traveled from Monroe, Wisconsin, to unite with the Umoja crew at the Black Business Hub in Madison. Spirits were high as work assignments were divvied up, and the energy of collaboration electrified the air. However, the task was not without its challenges; as hands grew weary and fingers cramped, the team pushed through fatigue with laughter and determination while listening to musical playlists to help distract from repetitive duties. Paper cuts served as both reminders of the hard work and badges of honor, each symbolizing commitment to the project.
The dress had to be designed with a runway model in mind for the upcoming event and fortunately Akira Patterson, an enthusiastic intern from Ashro, hesitantly volunteered to model the dress. Her smaller frame reduced the amount of paper needed to create a dress that was not only eye-catching but also practical. After 2 days at the Hub (May 30th & 31st), the dress was complete, ready for its debut on June 11th at The Sylvie, the venue that hosted the Madison Reading Project’s “Read(y) to Wear” show.
The night of the fundraiser finally arrived filled with excitement and anticipation. 12 other wearable fashions were showcased, each reflecting their designers’ creativity and ingenuity. From elegant gowns to avant-garde pieces, the runway came alive with craft and artistry. Six judges assessed the creations, narrowing the contestants down to three finalists, who would return for a final presentation.
As Akira walked the runway with grace, wearing the AshMoja design, the audience remained captivated. The craftsmanship reflected their dedication, embodying the spirit of legendary Black women—brave like Harriet Tubman, strong like Coretta Scott King, brilliant like Katherine Johnson, resilient like Maya Angelou, and a champion like local legend Milele Chikasa Anana. The hat was particularly special, featuring a tribute to Anana, serving as a powerful reminder of Umoja Magazine’s founder and her contributions to the community.
At the end of the evening, excitement peaked as the audience, numbering over 500, used a QR code to cast their votes. When the results were announced, joy erupted—Ashro and Umoja had prevailed, earning the 1st place title. Akira enjoyed a triumphant walk, complete with an elegant paper crown, symbolizing victory and hard work.
This first-time entry not only showcased creativity but also served as a beacon of inspiration for the community. The AshMoja collaboration reflected the essence of coming together for a common cause, proving that through unity and creative expression, remarkable achievements are possible. Many fingers had a hand (pun intended) in making this paper project become reality and having its presentation revealed in such an elegant way, but AshMoja thanks Suzanne Sawyer (Merchandising Brand Director for Colony Brands) for ultimately designing and leading the team to this victory.
With hearts full and spirits high, the AshMoja team endeavors to return next year, eager to see what new heights their collaboration will reach. This experience left an imprint, establishing a legacy of creativity, community, and the power of collaboration through the art of fashion. Because of this paper project, the AshMoja team was formed. Because of this paper project, the AshMoja team met in person for the first time. Because of this paper project, the AshMoja team broke bread together and shared professional and personal stories. Because of this paper project, the Madison Reading Project raised over $150,000 dollars further it’s mission of connecting the community with free books and literacy resources that ignite a love for reading and affirm and reflect the diversity of young readers. Wow! Who knew that paper could carry so much weight?
