At the High School of Fashion Industries, stories of creativity and ambition fill every hallway. But every so often, a story comes along that feels especially meaningful — a story of a student who once walked these halls with big dreams and has now returned to inspire the next generation.
Class of 2016 — A Foundation in Fashion
A proud HSFI Class of 2016 graduate, Aliyah Laureano continued her education at the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), where she majored in Fashion Business Management and specialized in Interior Design.
Her time at FIT sharpened her business acumen while allowing her creativity to evolve beyond the classroom. But the roots of her journey? They were planted right here at HSFI.
A Runway Moment to Remember
When asked about her fondest memory as a student, one moment stands above the rest: her senior fashion show.
Designing a jumpsuit and matching clutch for the runway was more than just an assignment — it was a milestone. Watching her friend confidently model her creation under the bright lights was a proud, emotional, and unforgettable experience. It was the moment when her passion transformed into purpose.
“That was when I realized this wasn’t just something I liked to do — it was something I was meant to pursue.”
Why Come Back?
Returning to HSFI wasn’t just a career decision — it was a calling.
HSFI was where her creativity was nurtured and where she first began taking her dreams seriously. It was a place that saw her potential before she fully understood it herself. Coming back as a staff member allows her to give back to the very community that shaped her during such a formative time in her life.
Now, she supports students who are standing exactly where she once stood — full of ideas, ambition, and limitless potential.
“It feels surreal to walk the same halls, but now in a position to guide and uplift.”
More Than Fashion
Born and raised in Harlem, New York, she proudly represents her roots in everything she does. A creative at heart, she has been designing since she was a little girl — sketching ideas long before she ever imagined building her own fashion brand.
Outside of work, she prioritizes balance and growth. Traveling and immersing herself in new cultures fuel her inspiration. Health, fitness, and her relationship with God are central to her life. Family remains a cornerstone, as her creativity was nurtured at home from a young age.
Everything she does is rooted in passion, faith, growth, and staying inspired.
From student to staff, her journey is proof that dreams cultivated at HSFI don’t just stay in the classroom — they evolve, expand, and sometimes even come full circle.