OIFW Announces New Board Members and Updates for Summer 2025

Orlando, FL – April 30, 2025 – Orlando International Fashion Week (OIFW) proudly introduces several new and returning members who have joined the OIFW leadership team for the highly anticipated Summer 2025 shows. These team members bring a wealth of expertise, passion, and dedication, ensuring the continued growth and success of OIFW as it sets the stage for a remarkable future in the fashion industry.  

New Additions to the OIFW Team:

OIFW is thrilled to welcome five new individuals to its leadership team:

Advisory Board:

• Paula Wyatt, Chief Excitement Officer, Anything is Posh Able®
  As a highly respected event strategist and communication consultant, Paula has been integral in helping Central Florida’s most admired organizations elevate their brands. She founded Posh Abilities, a nonprofit organization that provides complimentary event planning and image-building services to nonprofits. A recognized leader in Orlando, Paula’s extensive experience and community involvement make her a powerful addition to the OIFW team.
  
• Carilyn Egleé, Fashion Consultant & Leadership Coach
  With over 20 years of experience, Carilyn is a dedicated image consultant and leadership coach, empowering individuals to reach their professional and personal goals. Carilyn’s coaching and consulting expertise helps individuals in fashion and leadership develop confidence and clarity to succeed, both professionally and personally.

Team Members:

• Special Thompson, J.D., Legal Advisor
  After passing the New York State Bar exam in 2024, Special brings her extensive legal expertise to OIFW.  Special’s skills in legal research, contracts, and compliance will help ensure OIFW’s operations meet the highest standards.

• Cristina Medina, HR Onboarding and Process Manager 

Cristina brings over four years of experience in human resources and process management. With a focus on enhancing organizational efficiency and supporting team development, Cristina plays a crucial role in supporting OIFW’s operations and internal processes.

• Kathleen Marinez, Event Coordinator
  Kathleen has been instrumental in the success of past OIFW events. With her advancement to a more prominent role, she is now responsible for ensuring the seamless coordination and execution of OIFW’s events. Her commitment to detail and organizational excellence is vital to OIFW’s continued growth.

Team Advancements:

OIFW is pleased to announce that Anelya Alim, Award-Winning Makeup Artist (Makeup School NYC), and Lana Light, CFP®, CRPC™, Treasurer & Certified Financial Planner®, have both moved up to the Executive Committee. Their leadership, expertise, and tireless dedication to OIFW continue to propel the organization forward. Their new roles will help shape the future direction of OIFW.

The Returning OIFW Members:

We also recognize the invaluable contributions of the OIFW team, whose commitment and passion for the organization ensure that OIFW remains at the forefront of the fashion, art, culture, entertainment, and education industries:

Advisory Board:

• Thali Sugisawa, Director of Cultural Tourism, United Arts of Central Florida 
• David Wheeler, Chief Executive Officer, Global Peace Film Festival
• Nadege Wilson, Fashion Stylist & Influencer, SolviaMode Boutique
• Chalo Garcia, International Liaison, InterModelo Magazine

Team:

• Cheryl Thomas, Professional Services
• Daryl Maeder, Nonprofit Admin
• Ashleigh Mausser, Owner of AshRock Art

Advocates:

• Ted Bogert, Community Builder, Mortgage Professional, Broadcaster, and Speaker
• Barbara Hartley, Executive Director, Downtown Arts District
• Luis Martinez, MBA, Deputy Manager of Multicultural Affairs, City of Orlando
• Coralie Claeysen-Gleyzon, Chief Curator, Orlando Museum of Art
• Terry Olson, Chief Instigator, FusionFest
• Liz Sheppard, Owner of Bebe’s & Liz’s Boutique, Beauty and Fashion Icon

Executive Committee:

• Rob Henlon, M.A., Executive Director & Co-Founder
• Jessica Henlon, PhD Candidate, Chair & Co-Founder
• Starr Dalton, Secretary & Co-Founder
• Rosanna Tran, Reality TV Show Producer, Entrepreneur

Upcoming Events:

• Model Casting Call – May 4, 2025:
  OIFW is proud to partner with the Downtown Arts District to host a Model Casting Call on Sunday, May 4th, from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM at CityArts Gallery, Downtown Orlando. Models will have the opportunity to be selected by OIFW designers, fashion brands, and the OIFW Board of Directors for the Summer 2025 shows.  The Downtown Arts District is the sponsor of this event.
  
• OIFW 2025 Shows – June 8th:
  Join us for the highly anticipated OIFW 2025 shows at the Winter Park Events Center on Sunday, June 8th. Two spectacular shows will be held at 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM. These shows will feature cutting-edge designs from local, national, and international designers, showcasing the best of fashion, art, and culture, with a special feature from Macy’s, coming from the Mall at Millenia.
  

About Orlando International Fashion Week:

“The City Beautiful: Where Fashion Inspires, and Tourism Ignites”
Orlando International Fashion Week (OIFW) is the premier fashion event in Orlando, Florida, showcasing the best in fashion, beauty, art, and culture. OIFW celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion while elevating the city’s status as a global hub for creativity and artistic expression. The event brings together designers, emerging talents, and industry leaders worldwide for runway shows, exhibitions, educational sessions, and immersive experiences. OIFW is committed to creating opportunities for innovation and artistic expression while contributing to the growth and development of the local community.

For more information and to register for the casting call and shows, visit www.oifw.org.

Media Contact: Email: admin@oifw.org