American footwear designer, Tiannia Barnes, once traded in her IT Program/Project Management career for an opportunity to step foot in the fashion industry. Born and raised in Oklahoma City, her early talents were far from fashion, as she excelled in math and science. She's an HBCU graduate that has obtained bachelor’s degrees in mathematics (Clark Atlanta University) and industrial engineering (Georgia Tech), and later an MBA (University of Maryland).
Design started innately during high school after designing her own prom dresses. Several years later in 2013, Tiannia decided to pursue her passion, designing footwear. As she rediscovered her passion, she would then attend Shoemaker School in Cleveland, Ohio where she studied the art of footwear design and pattern development. During her studies she hand-made a prototype of one of her own designs. This catapulted her into starting her own eponymous brand.
An avid supporter and participant of many organizations relating to education and youth empowerment, Tiannia is determined to give back to her community. She currently serves on the HistoryMakers Fashion and Beauty Advisory Council, former Advisory Council member for the Boys and Girls Club, is an active supporter and volunteer for Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M.) programs, and also supports Junior Achievement. Tiannia resides in New Jersey with her son.
QUOTE:
“Whatever the occasion calls for, Fashion has always had the power to make me feel beautiful, confident, and classic. I want my shoes to offer that same inspiration to women everywhere.” Tiannia says.
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