Throughout my career as a high school student, I was fortunate enough to participate in the first class of Global Scholars offered at my high school. This program is presented by the Columbus Council on World Affairs and focuses on promoting higher levels of global awareness, comprehension, and advocacy. Coming from a predominately Caucasian high school, the aim of this program is the expand these students’ knowledge of other cultures and become more accepting of the differences that distinguish them from individuals across the globe. It was a 3 year program with a capstone project that must be completed upon the 3rd year.
For my Capstone Project, I chose to spread awareness and alternatives towards the detrimental and horrendous effects of Fast Fashion. My action plan was a two-part process. First, I needed to educate the public on the underlying issues behind their decisions as a consumer. One must understand that their cheap clothing comes at a much higher cost for women and children across the world. I educated the public through creating a social media account on Instagram @thecostofstyle and presenting my project to numerous classes throughout my school. The second part of my action plan was to show alternatives. After I educated my audience on the horrendous truth behind their clothing, I offered alternatives such as thrifting, spreading awareness, donating clothing, etc.
At the end of my 3rd year, the Columbus Council on World Affairs had liked my project to such a great degree that they invited me to come to their International Awards Ceremony to present the work I had been doing during my senior year. I stood in front of numerous successful men and women who each represented large companies such as L Brands, Honda, General Motors, and more, as I presented about Fast Fashion. I would be lying if I said I was not intimidated; however, I was empowered by the knowledge I had gained from my research and my initiative that I knew I had to use my voice for the victims of Fast Fashion that had been stripped of theirs.Â