The University of the Virgin Islands Student Government Association will present AfroMode, an African Fashion Show celebrating Black and Virgin Islands culture, culminating in the Miss Black Virgin Islands 2026 Coronation, on Saturday, Feb. 28, at the 13D Research and Innovation Center on the Orville E. Kean Campus on St. Thomas.

AfroMode is slated to be a vibrant cultural celebration spotlighting African and Virgin Islands heritage through fashion, performance, and pageantry, serving as a student-led platform for cultural education, artistic expression, and leadership development. The event will culminate in the coronation of Majestik Freedom as Miss Black Virgin Islands 2026. Freedom is a member of the Black Heritage Committee, a 2025 UVI graduate in Fine Arts and Education, and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership.

The event serves as a fundraiser and reinforces UVI’s commitment to student leadership development, cultural education, and academic advancement.

“I am excited about this event, as it represents the heart of student leadership and cultural expression at UVI,” said Jenai Brooks, president of the Student Government Association. “Events like this aim to enrich our campus life by creating a space for students to celebrate their identity, build community, and learn from each other outside of the classroom.”

“AfroMode represents more than a fashion show—it is a living expression of identity, heritage, and pride,” said Dara Monifah Cooper, advisor to the UVI Black Heritage Committee. “Through this celebration, we uplift students, honor Black and Caribbean culture, and invest in future leaders. As the only institution of higher learning in the territory, it is our responsibility to educate year-round, which is why the Black Heritage Committee is a standing committee of the Student Government Association and not simply a seasonal club.”

Doors open at 4 p.m., with vendors available prior to the 5 p.m. showtime. The evening will conclude with the coronation of Miss Black Virgin Islands 2026, crowned by former Miss Black USA Virgin Islands titleholder Bria James.

“This event coincides with the 100th anniversary of the national observance of Black History Month in the United States,” said Dr. Leslyn Tonge, dean of Students on the Orville E. Kean Campus. “As the only Historically Black College and University outside of the continental United States, students and the broader community are invited to join us as we learn more about our rich African and Caribbean heritage. This will be a glimpse of the Black Heritage Committee’s ongoing efforts to put Black excellence on display.”

Clothing and accessory sponsors include New Africa Market, Miss Naturalista, All Around You Bush Tea, K. Elinah Accessories, and Amour Magique. Student brands, including Elev-8, will also be part of this event. Strategic marketing support is provided by Conch Shell Media LLC.

Persons with event, sponsorship, or vendor inquiries should contact Dara Monifah Cooper, Black Heritage Committee advisor, at (340) 693-1083.

All media inquiries should be directed to the University of the Virgin Islands Office of Public Relations at pr@uvi.edu | (340) 693-1059.

 

About the UVI Black Heritage Committee

The University of the Virgin Islands Black Heritage Committee is a standing committee of the Student Government Association, operating under the SGA’s executive branch. In accordance with the Student Government Association Constitution, the Committee is responsible for planning and implementing programs that promote Black cultural awareness, particularly during national Black History Month observances, while maintaining year-round programming that supports cultural education and student engagement.

The Black Heritage Committee advances initiatives that celebrate the African diaspora and Caribbean heritage, foster student leadership, and support community-centered learning experiences. Its programs often involve collaboration with campus partners and community organizations and reflect UVI’s mission as a Land-Grant institution committed to public service and cultural enrichment.