Two SCAD Atlanta fashion design students, Jujuan (JJ) Lewis and Samalie Kabenge, were awarded the prestigious 2026 CFDA X Melvin and Monique Rodriguez Family Foundation Scholarship.
Both students received a $25,000 scholarship to support their education and professional development.
The scholarship was established by Melvin and Monique Rodriguez, entrepreneurs and co-founders of the multicultural haircare and beauty brand, Mielle Organics. Applicants were invited to submit concepts that explored hair, including its textures, densities, colors, and patterns, as a conceptual foundation for creative expression.
Samalie’s concept, “U Forgot to Pick Me Up” is a futuristic interpretation of modest fashion that balances structure and imagination. It combines Bauhaus principles with the instinctive mark-making of a child, transforming a forgotten classroom into a space for creativity.
JJ Lewis explored three distinct American themes for his fashion concepts – “American Prep, Eternal Autumn, and Social Renaissance” – creating luxury visual narratives that use fashion to explore the intersections of identity, culture, and lived experience.
The CFDA is a nonprofit trade organization dedicated to promoting the American fashion industry and runs educational and philanthropic initiatives to support the next generation of industry talent, according to a press release.
