Black Queer-Owned Brand Burghàlie Launches Spring 2025 Fashion Competition with $3K Prize & MAC Partnership
- Brandon Adams
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Exclusive | Fashion & Beauty
The Burghàlie Academy of Visual Arts presents the 4th Annual Spring 2025 Burghàlie Fashion Competition: The Burghàlie Resort (TBR). Slated for May 2nd in Atlanta, the fashion-forward event serves as a launchpad for aspiring models to display their talents through a competitive series of industry-focused challenges, culminating in a live finale that attendees will be able to experience in person.
The TBR Fashion Competition will provide unparalleled exposure and vast career opportunities, with past partnerships including MAC Cosmetics, Diva Davanna, Aveda Art Institue, Paul Mitchell The School, and The New Black Wall Street Market. Regarded as “The Biggest Fashion Competition on the East Coast”, the selection process is highly competitive with only 60 models chosen to participate.
Burghàlie is inclusive by nature, serving as a bridge in the fashion world by providing access and opportunity to young artists. Burghàlie’s signature fashion competition, TBR, extends that spirit through empowerment, education, and mentorship.
“TBR was created to shine a spotlight on emerging talent in the fashion industry. Too often, opportunities are gatekept and reserved for a select few, not based on skill or dedication, but on popularity and access," Burghàlie Chief Executive Officer, Rashaad Smith exclusively tells Gaye Magazine.
"Having faced similar barriers myself, I wanted to use Burghàlie’s network and resources to break down these walls–connecting rising talent with industry leaders like MAC Cosmetics and providing professional training from experts such as Diva Davanna."
Smith continued, "Our goal is to equip participants with knowledge, connections, and opportunities that can elevate their careers. Every Burghàlie project is designed to leave a lasting impact, ensuring that those involved walk away with something valuable–whether it be a tangible opportunity or a meaningful relationship."
Founded in 2017 by Rashaad Smith and Brandon Jones, Burghàlie prioritizes unity and connection over individualism.
“As a Black queer man raised in South Georgia, I know firsthand what it’s like to feel excluded. Growing up in the Bible Belt, I faced bullying, humiliation, and even rejection from family members. Burghàlie was born from my desire to create a different reality–one where self expression isn’t stifled but celebrated. More than a fashion brand, Burghàlie is a movement—a lifestyle rooted in unity, creativity, and inclusion.
"Our mission is to bring people together through fashion and art, transcending race, ethnicity, and sexuality. Regardless of our differences, our shared love for fashion connects us, and through that, we can build more inclusive and empowering community.”
Models will have the chance to win a $3000 cash prize and prestigious awards. Furthermore, thanks to Burghàlie’s partnership with M•A•C Cosmetics, contestants will also have the opportunity to win the inaugural MAC Award for Excellence in Beauty and Fashion award, along with an exclusive invitation to join the MAC Creator Pro program.
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Burghàlie Academy, an organization whose mission beautifully reflects M•A•C’s longstanding commitment to celebrating all ages, all races, and all genders. Together, we are proud to introduce the inaugural M•A•C Award for Excellence in Beauty and Fashion at this year’s TBR competition. This award honors a contestant who truly embodies the shared values of creativity, inclusivity, and self-expression that both M•A•C and Burghàlie champion.”, Global Associate of M•A•C Pro & Artist Relations Lyric Christian tells Gaye.
“In addition to receiving this recognition, the award recipient will also be invited to join the M•A•C Creator Pro Program—a six-month ambassador experience designed for emerging artists and professionals. Through the program, participants receive monthly product and creator briefs with opportunities for social media features and deeper engagement with the M•A•C Pro community.”
“We look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership and celebrating the next generation of boundary-breaking beauty and fashion talent.” – Lyric Christian
The Burghàlie Resort Fashion Competition will take place May 2nd, 5:00pm - 8:30pm EST at Society Atlanta Rooftop. To purchase ticket to attend and additional registration details use this link.