Founder and Fashion Creative Director L.A. Ray is making waves in the fashion industry with her innovative approach to melding fashion with mentoring and community service. The mastermind behind Haus of Noire and Crisp NYC, Ray brings over 14 years of experience to the table as she spearheads projects that are as impactful as they are stylish.
Haus of Noire, a New York-based non-profit organization, is not your typical fashion brand. Ray’s brainchild aims to foster growth and mentorship among young individuals through the Haus of Noire Mentoring Program. This program provides at-risk youth aged 5-21 with essential workforce development skills and mentoring to help them achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. Through comprehensive education in self-esteem, anti-bullying, and model-related training, Haus of Noire equips its students with the tools needed for a successful career in the fashion industry.
Ray’s dedication to empowering the next generation of fashion industry leaders led her to establish the Haus of Noire Academy, a prestigious school program that lays the foundation for budding talents to thrive in the competitive world of fashion. With a focus on instilling confidence and professionalism, the academy prepares students for a bright future in the industry.
In addition to her philanthropic pursuits, Ray ventured into the world of footwear with Crisp NYC, a highly-rated sneaker cleaning company that marries fashion and cleanliness. Established in 2021, Crisp NYC offers top-quality cleaning and restoration services while also providing internship programs and job opportunities for young individuals passionate about sneakers. Committed to giving back, the company annually donates new and gently used sneakers to local charities, embodying a spirit of community and goodwill.
Looking ahead, Ray envisions further impact in the next five years through her creative direction and production endeavors. Her goal is to continue inspiring and mentoring young talents who aspire to carve out a name for themselves in the fashion industry. With a strong dedication to her craft and community, Ray is set to lead the industry to new heights, empowering individuals to unleash their full potential.
In Ray’s own words, Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. With a mindset rooted in resilience and innovation, Ray embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship, continually pushing boundaries and seeking new avenues for growth.
As a piece of exciting news, Haus of Noire is taking its programs beyond New York City, with an upcoming expansion to Washington DC slated for May 2024, bringing its unique blend of fashion and mentorship to a wider audience.
With a strong foundation in luxury goods, L.A. Ray is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the fashion industry, blending creativity, community service, and entrepreneurship to drive positive change and inspire the next generation of leaders.
