Who will walk the runway during New York Fashion Week and win $20,000? You decide.
Mackenzie McClain
Must finish first in their group to advance to the Semifinals.
Voting for this round ends on August 28, 2026 at 10:00 PM EDT
About Mackenzie McClain
I’m 32 years old. I’ve been modeling and on the runway for 10 years. It has always been a passion of mine and I’ve been blessed to be able to inspire others in my community and collaborate with local designers. Assisting through connection.
Learn More About Mackenzie McClain
What makes you the Next Runway Star?
*I am to me even if I’m not to you.* I know that I am more than capable. My goal is to inspire my community. I am African-American neurodivergent (AUDHD) woman with something to say. There are so many things that I’ve had to learn throughout my life and the level of confidence that I chose to build up instead of crumbling under the pressure of life, that I want to share with others. I love assisting; this life is all about what you do with your next step. It’s about how you respond, not react. I learned that on the runway & I am blessed to have been able to make it to different casting auditions and meet the beautiful strangers that I have by taking the leap to go it alone. Even though I was never alone in those moments, I’ve met such beautiful people who are passionate about the path of self discovery , peace ,Creativity, childlike-curiosity , multi-dimensional artistic collaboration.) My hope is to meet more individuals to be able to bring more creative ideas to life
What would this once in a lifetime experience mean to you and why?
This once in a lifetime experience would be just that *once in a lifetime*. I only have one life to live..to walk with my head held high . Walking the runway in New York City would be an amazing experience . To be able to share that with beautiful,creative individuals is an absolute blessing in my eyes. Being able to share with those around me who may fear such a thing; to tell them that it is possible and show them also.
What are you most proud of about yourself or what have you overcome and why?
I am most proud of my perseverance, strength and faith. Something only passed down to me through my family. I am deeply proud of where I am currently in life after dealing with my father‘s passing at a young age, dealing with trials and tribulations afterward. learning that I was neurodivergent at 31 years old, which made me have to completely take a step back and look at my life completely differently. Emotions ,mindset ,actions I’ve had to reflect on my entire being because of that new information. Proud of my career path, currently working as an Enrichment Instructor for babies 3 months- 5 years old. Where I create lively, engaging learning environments for young children through art, music, movement, and imaginative play. In this role, I follow a structured curriculum, lead group activities, and foster social development—helping children build confidence, independence, and curiosity with hands-on classroom experience. I’m extremely proud and in love with what I see in the mirror.
What would you do with the $20,000 cash prize?
I will invest in my community orgs that support; people of color lgbtq+ parents, women & child enrichment development protective workshops. Future plans for my family & myself.
Content from Mackenzie McClain
Blue Beach dress model walk
Fashion Royale at the Hines history center, 2026
Vote for Mackenzie McClain
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