Who will walk the runway during New York Fashion Week and win $20,000? You decide.
Rossanna Gabriel
About Rossanna Gabriel
I am the Director of a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving children and families. A Dominican-born community worker, first Latina ATHENA Award recipient in Hazleton, PA, and first Latino/a elected to the Hazleton Government Study Commission.
Learn More About Rossanna Gabriel
What makes you the Next Runway Star?
What makes me the next runway star is not just how I walk the runway, but the story I bring to it. I was born in the Dominican Republic and came to the United States 14 years ago with dreams, determination, and a desire to build a better future for my son and myself. As a single mother, I worked hard to overcome challenges and create opportunities, not only for my family but for my community. Today, I serve as the Executive Director of a nonprofit dedicated to helping children and families in need. Along the way, I became the first Latina recipient of the Hazleton Chamber of Commerce's ATHENA Award and the first Latino/a elected to the Hazleton Government Study Commission. Fashion is about confidence, authenticity, and yourself. When I step onto the runway, I represent resilience, diversity, and the belief that beauty has no age, background, or limitations. I hope to inspire others, especially women, immigrants, and single mothers to believe in themselves and embrace opportunities.
What would this once in a lifetime experience mean to you and why?
This experience would mean so much more to me than walking a runway. As an immigrant woman, I came to the United States seeking a better future for my son and worked hard to build a life of purpose and service in my community. Learning a new language, adapting to a new culture, and finding my place as an adult were not easy challenges, but they taught me resilience and determination. Being part of New York Fashion Week would allow me to show the children and families I have the privilege of serving every day that dreams do not have an expiration date. It would be a powerful example for young girls and boys to see that success comes in many forms and that, with hard work, perseverance, and confidence, they can achieve what they once thought impossible. It would also inspire women, especially those who may have put their dreams aside while caring for their families and building a new life. They need to know that it is never too late to pursue opportunities, step outside, and shine.
What are you most proud of about yourself or what have you overcome and why?
I am most proud of the obstacles I have overcome and the person they have shaped me to become. I grew up in a low-income family where higher education seemed out of reach. Thanks to my parents' sacrifices and the support of my family, teachers, and organizations that believed in me, I was able to attend college. That opportunity changed the course of my life and inspired me to help others. Years later, I immigrated to the United States as a single mother and faced new challenges. Learning English while raising my son, continuing my education, and adapting to a new culture were not easy. Through perseverance and hard work, I rebuilt my career and found opportunities to grow. Today, I have the privilege of working in a nonprofit organization that supports children and families facing many of the same barriers I once experienced. My journey reminds me that one opportunity can change a life, and I am committed to creating those opportunities for others.
What would you do with the $20,000 cash prize?
Winning the $20,000 grand prize would have an even greater impact, not only on me but also on the children and families I serve every day. As the Director of a nonprofit community center in a low-income area, I see firsthand the tremendous needs of our community. I lead programs that provide education, meals, mentoring, sports, and different opportunities for underserved children. I also volunteer with other local organizations because I believe in the power of community. Our work depends heavily on donations and community support. I would use the prize to expand our programs, allowing us to serve more children through our summer camp and after-school initiatives. I would also donate at least 10% of the prize to another local nonprofit serving families in need to support its mission. Personally, this experience would fulfill a lifelong dream, but the greatest reward would be inspiring others to believe in themselves and show that when one person succeeds, an entire community can rise.
Content from Rossanna Gabriel
Interview to Rossana Gabriel
During a community event at my organization HIP
Hazleton Integration Project holds open house
The Evolution of Hazleton - Keystone Edition Reports
16 Salutes: Rossanna Gabriel
Newswatch 16's Valeria Quiñones spoke with Rossanna Gabriel as she reflected on her journey at the Hazleton One Community Center.
The Walk Challenge
Walking in front of a group of volunteers to practice
Rise is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit that helps sexual assault survivors across the country and around the world. They’ve created the most successful legislative reform movement in U.S. history: 120 laws passed, 1 UN Resolution and 112 million people’s lives impacted by their efforts.
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