Why I’m Pouring My Heart into the Courage Couture Gala
Disclosure: To ensure timely and informative content, this blog post has been enhanced or generated in part through use of AI writing technology.
Photo: Iya Thomas. In this photo, Leah and I are working on the gala at my home.
Every year, I dedicate my design expertise to a cause close to my heart. This year, I’m honored to collaborate with the Courage Couture Gala, a vital fundraising event hosted by the Sexual Assault Advocacy for Victims Everywhere (SAAVE Me) organization.
Sadly, like many, I’ve encountered numerous survivors of sexual assault within my own community. Hearing the stories of friends has often left me feeling deeply saddened and powerless, imagining the pain they must have endured. My hope is that, by volunteering and serving on the planning committee, my efforts can contribute to empowering survivors everywhere.
The Courage Couture Gala is the vision of my close friend and the aunt to my daughters, Leah M. Forney, a survivor and tireless advocate who has dedicated herself to training and working on behalf of sexual assault survivors. This black-tie gala will be held at the historic Prince George’s Ballroom in Landover, Maryland. On Friday, October 24, we will unite to celebrate the voices of survivors and raise crucial awareness about sexual violence.
The gala will feature keynote speaker Dr. Dominique Pritchett, mistress of ceremonies Precious S. Brown, and survivor Corinna Dunn. Attendees will enjoy a southern-style buffet dinner catered by Ka’ribbean Fire, based in La Plata, Maryland, along with non-alcoholic drinks. Music will be provided by DJ Paul. The evening will also include a powerful program filled with survivor stories, inspiring speeches, and special performances. This night is about connection, celebration, and advocating for change.
My support for the Courage Couture Gala and SAAVE Me extends beyond simply sharing this event. I’ve been deeply involved from the start, serving as the creative director and shaping the event’s identity system, including the logo, color palette, typography, and photographic style. A key aspect of our goal was incorporating teal into the color palette, the official color symbolizing support for survivors of sexual assault and violence. Given the seriousness and sensitivity of this subject, my team and I have been committed to ensuring that our imagery and the overall tone of the event are respectful and mindful.
My parents instilled in me the importance of leading by example. Using my skills to give back to causes like the Courage Couture Gala is how I want to be remembered. I hope my involvement inspires others to contribute to their local communities and the causes they care about. To learn more about the Courage Couture Gala, please visit saaveme.org.
Early bird tickets go on sale Sunday, April 6! This is your chance to secure your spot at this powerful and important event at a special price. Don’t delay – these tickets won’t last long! Be a part of the change. Purchase your early bird tickets now and stand with survivors.
P.S. If you’re a not-for-profit seeking creative and design support for 2026, please reach out to me at latoya.burris@gmail.com. You can find more information about my pro bono services in my FAQs.