By: Tory Tillery
Young Fashion Show is about dreams, courage, and a new generation of runway stars taking their first confident steps into the fashion world. Its impact is undeniable. In an industry where children’s shows were often small-scale or charming side acts, YFS breaks the mold. Bold, large-format productions rival major fashion week in energy and execution.
And here, the spotlight belongs entirely to the next generation. Founded by U.S.-based producers Taras Lavrovskyi and Diana Hetun, Young Fashion Show continues to grow, opening doors for young talent across the country. With vibrant productions and professional mentors, YFS creates a space where children can gain confidence, develop their skills, and take their first steps toward a future in fashion — truly a place where stars are born.
Seven-year-old Sarra Dzhemela from Michigan began her runway journey with Young Fashion Show, stepping onto a professional catwalk for the very first time at the YFS show in Chicago. That debut became the starting point of her modeling path. Soon after, her journey continued in New York, where she took part in another major Young Fashion Show, appearing with even greater confidence and presence.
And now, let’s return to where it all began.
Sarra’s mother, Iryna Dzhemela, was the first to discover Young Fashion Show and suggested it to her daughter simply out of curiosity, she recalls. At that moment, Sarra was longing for something inspiring, something new. That small spark from her mother became the beginning of a journey that started with Young Fashion Show — and continues to unfold today.
With excitement and anticipation, she and her mother submitted their application to the Young Fashion Show. They waited anxiously for the results, and when the confirmation finally came, they learned that Sarra could begin preparing for the runway.
It was also a moment of courage. Stepping onto the runway meant facing a large crowd, dozens of children, and several days of rehearsals. She moved through training, guidance from YFS curators, coaches and finally the show itself, where she had to match the pace and presence of older participants, and she carried herself beautifully.
One of the most meaningful highlights of The Young Fashion Show in Chicago was the privilege for its young participants to bring the collections of 18 fashion brands to the runway. And what a special thrill it was for Sarra when she was chosen to showcase clothing by Mia Belle Girls, a brand with over a million followers on social media that has earned its place on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing companies and become one of the most beloved labels among moms seeking style, quality, and memorable moments for their children. Each look delivers a strong visual impact while maintaining comfort for young models, making Mia Belle Girls a go-to choice for stylish kids’ wear. “I couldn’t believe my luck! Such a big famous brand preferred me! On top of that, Mia Belle Girls gifted me a dress to remember my participation in the project!” the young model shares.
Representative of the brand Mia Belle Girls:
“Watching Sarra on the runway was truly a joy. She has a natural confidence and calm presence that feels far beyond her age, and she wore the Mia Belle Girls outfit with such grace and ease. It was clear how much heart and excitement she brought to the show, and we were honored to have her represent our brand. Sarra’s debut was both beautiful and memorable, and we look forward to seeing her continue to grow and shine.”
For Sarra, this was truly a significant milestone. For first-time models, YFS is more than just a runway — it’s a true launchpad for success. Scouts, designers, and brands watch closely. Aspiring young models gain high-quality runway experience, while parents see a safe, professional environment where children can explore modeling — whether as a potential path or an unforgettable memory.
Another special moment for Sarra came when the brand Sandra & Sabrina CO. noticed her charm. When Sarra submitted her application to the Young Fashion Show, the designer saw photos of her with her mother, Iryna, and decided to invite them both to present the family look on the runway.
Walking the catwalk in beautiful dresses, mother and daughter shone together, dazzling the audience with their presence. For them, it was a truly memorable moment they will cherish for a lifetime. Her mother felt the joy of her daughter’s success while holding her hand.
“She was genuinely happy. When she walked the runway, you could see it in her eyes,” her mother, Iryna, recalls.
Sarra continued her journey with Young Fashion Show, embarking on a tour across American cities and becoming a participant in another major show in New York. There, she stepped onto the runway at one of the city’s most iconic and prestigious venues — Cipriani 25 Broadway. Known for its historic architecture, grand marble columns, and luxurious interior, the venue provided a breathtaking backdrop for a fashion show of international scale.
At the Cipriani 25 Broadway runway, Sarra represented Mini Me and Mama among 23 fashion brands. This experience marked a new chapter in her modeling journey. Mini Me and Mama, a brand that brings the elegance and charm of European children’s fashion directly to Clackamas Town Center, is known for turning life’s most meaningful moments into something truly magical — a feeling Sarra conveyed effortlessly on the runway.
Having achieved her first runway success in Chicago, Sarra was already ready to reach for new heights. There is no doubt that Sarra will achieve great success. She has already faced a remarkable challenge for her age: moving to the United States. Sarra arrived with her family at age four, after the war began in Ukraine. “Most of her memories from Ukraine have faded, but the traditions haven’t. Now we live in Michigan, where she has adapted wonderfully. She goes to school, has many friends, and attends Ukrainian school every Saturday to stay connected to her language and roots. And of course, there is dance. For her, dance is not just a hobby—it’s a true love,” her mother explains.
Even at such a young age, Sarra had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in a major American project like the Young Fashion Show. She stepped onto a professional runway with confidence, embracing every moment with energy and grace. The experience ignited something powerful within her—a real passion for modeling. “I felt like my idol, Georgina Rodríguez! I realized that if I work hard, I can walk runways just like her,” Sarra reflects, her eyes shining with ambition.
For her mother, seeing her daughter so genuinely happy on stage was emotional: “Watching your child fulfill her dreams is a feeling you can’t describe. You can only experience it. Pride, joy, happiness.”
At the Young Fashion Show runway in Chicago, Sarra was composed and focused. She already has a signature look: strong, confident, intense — as if she were not seven, but a seasoned fashion-week model. There was a special sparkle in her performance: new friends, beautiful designs, the magic of the stage, and the confidence that comes with a first big success.
The debut of young model Sarra Dzhemela marked the beginning of her journey with a successful first appearance at the Young Fashion Show in Chicago. That confident start soon led her to the runway in New York, opening a new chapter in her modeling path. Guided by her natural charm and strong potential, Sarra continues to grow — with ongoing dance training and runway practice — already counting the days until her next shows
Her love for exploring new experiences and showcasing her talents reflects her family’s passion for travel. Sarra has already visited fashion capitals like Paris in France, as well as other European countries. She has also discovered the United States, traveling to Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Chicago, New York and other cities. Thanks to the Young Fashion Show, Sarra Dzhemela officially presented herself as an emerging model, and now Sarra dreams of conquering the world’s biggest runways. “But her biggest dream is to live in places where fashion trends are born, like France or Monaco,” her mother adds.
For Sarra, Young Fashion Show was more than a performance. It became her first major step toward confidence and self-belief. Ahead of her lie new runways, new dreams, and new victories. Watching her on the catwalk, one thing is clear: this is only the beginning. The next generation of fashion stars has arrived, and Sarra Dzhemela is leading the way!
