This weekend, the Teen Fashion Academy will host the “Uniquely Capable Prom and Fashion Show,” a free event celebrating individuals with special needs. The event, open to children and adults facing challenges or disabilities, will take place at the Stanley White Recreation Center on Third Avenue in New Bern at 6 p.m. on Saturday.
New Bern police officers will join participants on the runway, and the evening will feature dancing, door prizes, and various fun activities. Erica Latrice, co-chair of the Uniquely Capable Prom, expressed her enthusiasm for the event. “It’s just so much excitement, and just a time where everyone can really let their hair down and just enjoy themselves with no judgment – nothing – just go in and have a great time,” she said.
The program will also honor the memory of Jalen Bryant, a Craven County teen who was active in the Teen Fashion Academy over a decade ago. Jalen passed away at age 15 from osteosarcoma, a childhood cancer. His mother founded the nonprofit Jalen Nation to fulfill his dream of helping pediatric cancer patients. “Sometimes kids battling cancer, even if they defeat cancer, sometimes they end up having special needs,” she said.
Jalen’s mother will be present at the event to accept donations for her nonprofit.
