From the Runway to Real Talk.

My Experience with the Men Against Abuse Initiative.

One weekend in Spring, I stepped into something completely new—I walked the runway.......Yes! you read that right..

Believe it or not, I found myself strutting (nervously at first!) down a catwalk. But this wasn't about fashion in the traditional sense. It was about purpose. It was about using a platform—literally and figuratively—to support something I've been passionate about for a long time: men’s wellness and the fight against abuse.

Thanks to Dr. Oyinkansola Jinadu, founder of the Honeydrops Foundation, I had the opportunity to participate in an unforgettable event that blended fashion with a powerful cause. The Foundation, known for its various community-focused initiatives, hosted an event in honor of Men’s Health Month that spotlighted the need to break the silence around abuse and mental health among men—especially Black men.

The event, titled “21st Century Men Against Abuse Fashion & Fireside Chat,” was held at a local establishment and featured a unique runway show with a twist. Alongside a few seasoned models were men from different walks of life—entrepreneurs, leaders, everyday role models—who boldly stepped onto the runway in solidarity.

......I was one of them.....

And while I may not have modeling experience, I knew the best way I could show support was to show up.

In addition to the fashion show, it featured a Fireside Chat which included

Junior Ezeonu, councilman of Grand Prairie and currently representing Mayor Pro Tem Jorja Clemson. At only 27 years old, he’s a powerful example of youth leadership in action.

Boris “Greg” Chestnut, an accomplished author and a mental health advocate, who spoke with raw honesty about the challenges men face and how we can rise above them—together.

Personally, I had a blast. I laughed, learned, and connected with some incredible people who I now consider part of my growing community.

The Honeydrops team did an outstanding job of organizing the event. It was clear that behind the scenes, there were hours of planning, sacrifice, and passion poured into making it all happen.

As a podcaster, a supporter, and now—unexpectedly—a runway walker, I can honestly say this was one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had. And I look forward to continuing this journey.

To Dr. Oyinkansola Jinadu and the entire Honeydrops Foundation team: THANK YOU for creating space for men to be seen, heard, and supported.

If you're reading this and feel inspired to be part of this mission—whether through volunteering, donations, or spreading awareness—you can reach out via email at info@honeydropsfoundation.org or check out the foundation’s Instagram page: @honeydropsfoundation.

Let’s keep walking this walk—on the runway, in our communities, and toward a better, more compassionate future.

#MenAgainstAbuse #MensHealthMonth #HoneydropsFoundation #CommunitySupport #MentalHealthMatters #BlackMenHealing #WalkWithPurpose #FiresideChat #PurposeOverPose