top of page

2026 "I Am" Youth Movement

The 4th Annual I AM Youth Fashion Show (2026)

The I AM Youth Fashion Show is more than a showcase of fashion — it is a powerful platform where youth express who they are, build self-confidence, and develop a positive sense of self.

At United We Go, we believe young people need spaces where they are seen, encouraged, and given permission to grow. This event is a reflection of that commitment.

This year, we are celebrating youth empowerment, creativity, and self-expression in one of the largest youth fashion shows in the Great Lakes Bay Region.

The 2026 show will feature youth models ages 4–17 walking the runway, each representing one of this year’s five empowering I AM themes:

✨ I AM Creative
✨ I AM Strong
✨ I AM Worthy
✨ I AM Important
✨ I AM Resilient

These statements are more than themes — they are affirmations youth carry into the runway and beyond.

New for 2026: Activating Creative Expression Through Wearable Art

This year, we are expanding the program to encourage youth not only to model confidence — but to create it.

Through our new Wearable Art Workshops, youth are invited to activate their creative essence by designing and painting their own clothing, accessories, and even custom I AM pieces that may be featured in the final fashion show.

From hand-painted jackets to personalized apparel, participants can bring their own vision to life and, in some cases, walk the runway wearing pieces they helped create themselves.

Because self-expression is not only about what we wear — but what we imagine, make, and embody.

More Than a Fashion Show

The I AM Youth Fashion Show is a confidence-building journey where youth develop:

  • Self-expression

  • Stage presence

  • Communication skills

  • Leadership

  • Creativity

  • Friendship and community connection

What happens on the runway is only part of the transformation.

What happens before the runway — the training, the courage, the collaboration, and the belief built along the way — is where the real magic lives.

merch front.PNG
merch back.PNG
IMG_1024
IMG_1067
IMG_1039
IMG_1056
IMG_1069
wearable workshop flyer
656075718_936959779151313_1304884393888330017_n.jpg

This exciting event will showcased local and regional talent, celebrating the creativity, confidence, and individuality of young models. Whether you're a parent, family member, or community supporter, we invite you for being in this event to celebrate our youth and their inspiring journeys.

More information is coming ( vendors, designers, artists)

Thanks ABC 12 for sharing this event in our region!

Sponsor A Youth Fundraiser

"Say Yes to Our Youth model" and be part of their journey to confidence and self-expression. Your support helped cover their training, and participation in the 2026 I AM Youth Fashion Show—empowering them to shine on and off the runway.

2.png
3.png

I AM themed T-shirt 

2025 I AM Youth Fashion Show Highlights

Key Highlights:

  • Youth Models: 54 (Ages 4–17)

  • Attendees: 270

  • Vendors: 5

  • Designers: 5

  • Volunteers: 30

  • Speakers: 5

  • Live Musicians: 4

  • Facebook & Instagram Reach: 50,000–60,000 with over 80 combined posts

 

Impact:
Youth participants walked the runway with boldness and grace. Empowerment themes—I AM Confident, I AM Loved, I AM Enough, I AM Kind, I AM Unique—were reflected not only in outfits but in the spirit of every child. The show served as a platform for storytelling, representation, and community pride.

Aubriella, Bay County

Loved walking and expressing my emotions and confidence! 

Kenra, Bay City

That it was truly all about the kids! My son said he enjoyed making new friends.

Kristen, Bay County

The confidence boost for all kids regardless of abilities 

Our Team.

It takes a village to make event like this happen, every year, we assemble a special team to plan, execute and present this special event for our youth in our region. 


Past Event Highlights
 

bottom of page