A Night of Fashionable Impact
In our first annual Fashion with Passion charity gala, guests experienced an unforgettable evening where high fashion became a force for change. A premier runway event designed to uplift, empower, and advocate; we couldn’t be more proud of the models and our team for putting on such an incredible evening, benefitting gender-affirming healthcare and LGBTQ+ rights. The spectacular night brought together trailblazing designers, changemakers, and passionate advocates, all united by a shared vision: a world where healthcare, self-expression, and dignity are accessible to all, regardless of gender identity.
At the heart of the event was Erik Wise, founder of Urban Native, whose designs embodied a fearless embrace of diversity, culture, and inclusivity. Erik’s work—previously showcased at New York Fashion Week—drew inspiration from global traditions, bold prints, and flowing fabrics, ensuring that every individual, no matter their gender, body type, or identity, felt seen, valued, and celebrated. His boutique’s philosophy, “Fabulous is the Only Option,” aligned seamlessly with Love The Golden Rule’s commitment to providing compassionate, affirming healthcare to underserved LGBTQ+ communities.
Every step on the runway represented more than just fashion—it was a statement of visibility, acceptance, and empowerment. Raising over $6,000, we are proud to direct these proceeds from to directly support lifesaving transgender healthcare services, free HIV testing, and medical support for those who often face systemic barriers to care. Whether in attendance, offering a donation, or sponsoring the event, our community members weren’t just enjoying a night of couture and creativity—they became part of a movement dedicated to equity, inclusivity, and meaningful impact.
Supporting Gender-Affirming Care Through Style
Fashion has long been a powerful form of self-expression, allowing individuals to present themselves authentically to the world. But at Fashion With Passion, style served an even greater mission—one that directly supported the transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse community through life-changing medical care, advocacy, and support.
Hosted by Love The Golden Rule, the event was more than just a night of glamour. It was a rallying cry for equity in healthcare. Every ticket purchased and every bid placed in the auction helped remove barriers to care for LGBTQ+ individuals—many of whom still face systemic discrimination in medical settings. Thanks to the generosity of our guests and sponsors, proceeds from the evening are funding gender-affirming hormone therapy, PrEP access for HIV prevention, free HIV and STI testing, and holistic services designed to support trans and non-binary patients.
It was a particularly moving evening for Dr. Bob, founder and medical director of Love The Golden Rule. Among the many powerful moments of the night, he shared how deeply meaningful it was to witness patients walking the runway—individuals he has supported through their personal journeys of self-acceptance, healing, and confidence in their identity as transgender women.
“To see someone I’ve walked alongside in their transition step onto that stage with pride and strength—it’s why we do what we do,” shared an emotional Dr. Bob during his speech.
Seeing patients that we have come to know as family celebrated, empowered, and embraced by the community underscored exactly why events like Fashion With Passion matter.
The need for healthcare equity has never been more urgent. Florida continues to see some of the highest rates of new HIV diagnoses in the nation, and competent, affirming care for transgender individuals remains out of reach for too many. Fashion With Passion gave our community a chance to stand up—and show up—for those who need it most. With your support, Love The Golden Rule will continue to expand its reach, ensuring that every individual—regardless of gender identity or financial status—can access the care they deserve.
Guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening filled with:
A dazzling runway show featuring Urban Native and guest designers
Exclusive New York Fashion Week looks making their local debut
Silent and live auctions filled with luxury items and one-of-a-kind experiences
Complimentary hors d’oeuvres for every guest
An open bar with signature cocktails, wine, beer, and more
Inspirational speeches from Dr. Bob Wallace and Rob Hall, founder of Winter Pride
And most importantly, a shared commitment to advancing transgender healthcare access
We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who made the night a success—and we can’t wait to see you next year for an even bigger celebration of style, strength, and solidarity.
Showcasing The Designer: Erik Wise
Fashion visionary Erik Wise, founder of Urban Native, brought his bold, inclusive designs to the Fashion With Passionrunway, reinforcing his belief that everyone—regardless of age, body type, size, or gender identity—deserves to feel seen, valued, and stylish. His signature pieces embraced vibrant prints, striking patterns, and flowing silhouettes, drawing inspiration from his travels and cultural heritage. Recently featured at New York Fashion Week, Urban Native blended traditional influences with modern, urban aesthetics, creating fashion that is both accessible and empowering.
“Urban Native was born out of my international travels. I take ‘native’ prints and colors from around the world and design them into ‘urban’ styles that can be appreciated by everyone,” said Wise. “Working with Love The Golden Rule for Fashion With Passion was an opportunity to use fashion as a platform for change—to give back to the community and support those who need access to essential medical care.”
This powerful collaboration between Urban Native and Love The Golden Rule went beyond showcasing runway designs—it was about breaking down barriers and advocating for equitable, gender-affirming healthcare. Both organizations share a deep commitment to empowerment, inclusion, and advocacy, using their platforms to create tangible change in the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals.
At Fashion With Passion, Wise debuted a stunning selection of exclusive designs, including pieces showcased at New York Fashion Week and brand-new creations made specifically for the event. His work served as a testament to the idea that fashion is more than clothing—it’s a celebration of identity, confidence, and visibility.