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Alva Chinn stands as a beacon of diversity in fashion. Her career, which flourished in the 1970s and 1980s, saw her work with top designers such as Halston, Yves Saint Laurent, and Bill Blass. Chinn was not just a model but a trailblazer, advocating for greater diversity and inclusion within the industry. Her efforts helped pave the way for future generations of models of color, making significant strides towards a more inclusive fashion world.

Richard Quiñones, the creative force behind Richard Q Couture Designs, is a native Puerto Rican, NYC veteran, and graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in Fashion Design. Quinones have earned a stellar reputation for his collections that blend glitz, glamour, and sophisticated seduction. His designs have been showcased across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Europe, solidifying his standing as a world-renowned fashion designer.

With decades of experience in the fashion industry, Quiñones's work has garnered widespread acclaim and media attention, including features on Telemundo and Univision. His meticulous appreciation for each garment he creates is both unparalleled and awe-inspiring, contributing to his long-standing influence in the fashion world.

Throughout his illustrious career, Quiñones has received numerous awards, with his most recent accolade being the Fashion Mentorship Award in 2023 during Hispanic Heritage Month. This award underscores his commitment to nurturing the next generation of fashion designers and his significant contributions to the industry.

Richard Quiñones's mission is to craft unique and stunning pieces that empower women, enabling them to feel utterly empowered and confident. His dedication to creating exceptional fashion that celebrates and enhances women's strength and beauty continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. 

Cleo Lucas is a 24-year-old Antiguan American fashion and runway model whose career has been marked by determination and creativity. Her journey into modeling began in her senior year of high school when she collaborated with various photographers to build her industry knowledge. This early exposure laid the foundation for a flourishing career.

In recent years, Cleo has made significant strides in the fashion world. She has done commercial work for Kiss Cosmetics and Envieus Designs, showcasing her versatility and appeal. Her runway experience is equally impressive; she walked for Lewis Beilharz at Runway 7 and SFW Fashion Week during NYFW 2023, and for Papillon Dezigns in February's NYFW 2024 with FMC. In March 2024, she graced the cover of Rare Magazine’s Black History Month issue, a testament to her rising influence in the industry.

Photographers Janet Wolfman and Rahul Nag

Crystal lifetime Achievement Award 

Tribute 

In Memory of Renauld White

February 1, 1944 – June 26, 2024

Renauld White: A Trailblazer in Modeling and Acting

Renauld White was born on February 1, 1944, in Newark, New Jersey, to Maybelline Scott White, a hat model, and Robert White Sr. Raised in Newark, White embarked on a remarkable journey that spanned over 50 years in the modeling and acting industries. His career began amidst significant societal challenges, yet his determination and talent propelled him to become one of the country’s foremost male fashion icons.

In 1979, Renauld White made history as the first African American to grace the cover of GQ magazine, a groundbreaking achievement that paved the way for generations of Black male models. His image adorned more than 20 issues of GQ, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams. His historic GQ cover appearance came 12 years after Sammy Davis Jr. became the first Black male celebrity to have that honor in 1967.

White’s illustrious modeling career included collaborations with prestigious European designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino, Armani, and Versace. These partnerships broke barriers and set new standards for inclusion and diversity in the fashion world. He also worked with celebrated American designers, including Bill Blass, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Jeffrey Banks, and Donna Karan.

Throughout his storied career, Renauld White achieved numerous milestones. He was the first African American male model to endorse a "White" men’s hair product, Vitalis. Fortune magazine honored him as a highly successful leader in the fashion modeling industry. He received the Style Award from the Fashion Outreach organization and the Thurgood Marshall Fashion Icon Award, cementing his legacy as a pioneer in fashion.

In addition to his modeling success, White garnered critical acclaim as an actor. His performances in regional theater productions were highly praised, with notable roles such as Julius Caesar and Malcolm X in "When the Chickens Come Home to Roost." He also appeared on television, featuring in CBS's "Guiding Light" and ABC-TV’s "One Life to Live," as well as in numerous commercials.

Renauld White’s commitment to community service was evident through his extensive involvement in social change initiatives. He shared his experiences and insights through lectures and motivational speeches at schools and universities across the country. As an ambassador for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA, he actively contributed to initiatives that promote social change and community development.

White’s upcoming book promises to offer readers an in-depth look into his extraordinary journey, detailing his day-to-day successes, the challenges he overcame, and the wisdom he gained throughout his illustrious career. His legacy as a trailblazer in both fashion and acting continues to inspire and empower individuals from all walks of life.

Photo courtesy Musa Jackson photographer J. Monroe for Ambassador Digital Magazine

Renauld White’s impact on the modeling and acting industries is immeasurable. His trailblazing achievements and dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion have left an indelible mark. His life and career serve as a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and the pursuit of excellence. Renauld White will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking accomplishments but also for his unwavering commitment to uplifting and inspiring others.

In Loving Memory of 

Renauld White

I wish you could have stayed longer; we needed more time to celebrate and rejoice with one another. This morning, I felt it heavy in my soul that I didn't get to tell you once again that you were one of my champions. I prayed, for some time I knew you weren't well and I kept checking on your care. I wanted another opportunity to tell you again, Mr. Renauld White, that your legacy will always be my guiding light.

Never shall I hold any anguish towards anyone. I will find forgiveness towards those who may have tried to hurt or insult me. I shall not place judgments upon anyone that I don't know, for I don't know what shoes they've walked in.

For the short period we shared, you were more than a handsome face and a class supermodel. You were a loving son, brother, uncle, mentor, and good friend. You were an educator, a man of the arts and humanity. It saddens me that I am unable to face you once again and hand you your Crystal Lifetime Achievement Award, but you have received a larger, much greater honor. Your spiritual father has placed you in his magnificent heart, and as he does, so shall we keep you in our hearts. Prayer to your family to find comfort in love.

Renauld White's legacy transcends the worlds of modeling and acting. His influence and spirit touched the lives of those who had the honor of knowing him, and his memory will continue to inspire and guide us. May his family and friends find solace in the love and respect he garnered throughout his life, and may we all strive to embody the grace, kindness, and resilience that he demonstrated.

By -Ja’Dee Murphy