BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Eight Kern County high school students were recognized for their academic achievement, leadership and community involvement during the 2026 Miss Fashionetta and Gents Program, held March 1 at the Marriott Hotel and Convention Center.
Hosted by the Kappa Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., in partnership with the Bakersfield Ivy Legacy Foundation, the annual event drew nearly 200 family members, mentors and community supporters to celebrate participants who completed the program’s five-month leadership and enrichment curriculum.
A Program Rooted in Excellence
The Miss Fashionetta Program, a signature scholarship and youth development initiative sponsored locally since 1985, continues to serve as a platform for cultivating leadership, confidence and cultural pride among high school juniors and seniors across Kern County.
In recent years, the addition of “The Gents” has expanded the program to include young men, further broadening its reach and impact.
Organizers say the program is designed to help students develop a strong sense of self while promoting academic success and community responsibility.
Five Months of Growth and Mentorship
Participants engaged in a structured series of workshops and activities focused on leadership development, effective communication and personal branding. The program also emphasized academic excellence, providing students with resources and support to help them succeed in school and beyond.
Community service remained a key component, with students participating in organized volunteer efforts aimed at strengthening their connection to the community.
In addition, local professionals and program alumni served as mentors, offering guidance and support as students navigated both personal and academic challenges.
Crowning Achievement
The program culminated in a formal gala where participants were presented by their families and recognized for their accomplishments.
Miss Madisynn Brown was crowned Miss Fashionetta 2026, while Mr. Abdur Clark earned the title of Mr. Gent 2026.
The evening also featured participation from past program representatives, including reigning Miss Fashionetta Moriah Riggins, now a freshman at Sacramento State University. Darryl Johnson, identified in the press release as the first beau of 1983, was present to crown the 2026 Gent.
In addition to the crowning, participants competed for several honors, including awards for highest GPA, personality, congeniality, community service and an Entrepreneur Challenge.
Investing in Students’ Futures
Through the program, students also had the opportunity to earn scholarships to support their post-secondary education. Since its inception, the initiative has awarded more than $150,000 in scholarships.
Program organizers say the goal is to prepare students for lifelong success by instilling values such as integrity, responsibility, friendship and compassion.
The 2025–26 program was led by General Chairperson DeAnna Lewis, with leadership from Chapter President Linda McKnight and Foundation President Raquell Jones.
Looking Ahead
As the Miss Fashionetta and Gents Program continues to evolve, organizers remain focused on empowering the next generation of leaders through mentorship, education and community engagement.
For many of this year’s participants, the experience marks not just the end of a program—but the beginning of new opportunities for growth, service and academic achievement.
