Ethan Michai Williamson
International Business with a Concentration in Entrepreneurship
Year: Senior
My name is Ethan Michai Williamson, a Senior International Business Major concentrating in Entrepreneurship from Los Angeles, California. Growing up my parents instilled the importance of gratitude and making a positive impact. So now being of service and connecting with members of my community is what I live for. As a result some of my values are benevolence, compassion and gratitude. I wish to add value to the world around me by uplifting men and women through the ministry of retail therapy and providing quality products that increase their self confidence, in turn helping them be the best version of themself to the community around them. My journey of self development has been just as turbulent as the next man’s, and I just wish to ease the journey for the next generation behind me, as those before me did. My personal passions consist of fashion, cooking, and music. And in my maturity I’ve begun to realize it’s more about the sense of community and belonging I feel when engaging in these activities.
How has attending an HBCU set you up for success?
Being able to further my education at an HBCU specifically Howard University has undoubtedly had a positive impact on my self confidence. Through the experiences of campus life and the Howard community, I have been poured into and reaffirmed by my people. As a result of being uplifted, I now feel more confident. Not only in my intellect and value proposition, but also more confident in who I am as a Black man. Being nurtured as a young adult, in a space like Howard has now allowed me to show up whole heartedly no matter what room I’m in.
How are you looking to contribute to the professional world upon graduation?
Upon graduation I’m looking to contribute youthful ideas, energy, and creativity. I consider myself a very empathetic person, so no matter what industry I’m in I’m always thinking, “What would make this worthwhile for me, if I was the customer?”. As a member of Gen-Z, we have demanded higher standards of quality, brand transparency, and authenticity from major corporations. As Gen-Z’s buying power increases, it is important for companies to further establish their relationship with the Gen-Z consumer. Because of the youthful nature of my ideas and connection to Gen-Z, this is how I will contribute, by making a meaningful connection with the target audience and fostering a sentiment of brand loyalty.
What is your dream job?
I recently learned that my ultimate dream job is to be a Philanthropist. Over the past 6 years I have been on a journey of self discovery and purpose. Recently, when recounting all of the wonderful opportunities and “First Times' ' I've experienced, I realized I was just grateful for all that I had been able to see. I also realized I was only able to see those things because someone felt that it was important for the youth to see what life has to offer. As a result, of having been blessed by so many people who just wanted to see me succeed, it has become my goal to be so successful that I too can pour immensely into someone else's.
How do you express your personal sense of style through fashion?
Fashion is my favorite medium to express my personal style. I consider myself an educated, kind-hearted young man. I believe that I do a good job of illustrating those characteristics through my use of collars, ties, loafers, fitted clothing and glasses in my outfits. However, I also grew up playing basketball and love streetwear and those things are evident in my use of vivid colors, and various fabrics and outerwear. I take pride in my appearance and also love the joy and confidence boost that comes along with finding a new piece or seeing yourself in an amazing outfit.
What role will you play in the future of fashion?
I know that I will play a large role in the future of fashion, specifically Menswear, because I have begun making clothes for myself. I have always enjoyed haberdashery and looked up to clean well-kept men, consequently I have begun immersing myself in that world as a 22-year-old man looking to mature. With my clothing brand VarsityTeam I am creating stylish Menswear for both formal wear, and athleisure streetwear. As a direct consumer of these products, I notice the gaps in the market and aspire to offer men a brand synonymous with prestige and fashionable trends. I also believe over time I will gain influence resulting from my personal fashion sense which will directly influence trends.
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