-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Erica Jenkins and how would you describe yourself to someone who has never met you?
I would describe myself as a visionary, a creator and someone who leads with purpose. I’m passionate about building platforms that give other individuals opportunities – especially those who have been overlooked. I’m driven, resilient and deeply community focused. At my core, I genuinely want to see people win, grow and feel seen. That is what fuels everything I create.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
While I was born and raised Roanoke, I also spent a lot of time in New Jersey. That balance gave me the best of both worlds – the culture and fast pace of the North, along with the strong sense of community and deep roots in the South. My upbringing shaped my appreciation for diversity and the importance of staying grounded, regardless of where life takes you.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
At 18, I was selected by Eastern Airlines to become a flight attendant. Unfortunately, the airline closed, forcing me to shift my career path. I stepped into modeling and began exploring different opportunities. I became a mother at 23, which became a defining moment in my life.
Before transitioning into real estate and property management, I worked in various corporate roles. From there, I expanded into podcasting and event production. After attending a fashion week in a different city, I came back home more inspired than ever – and that’s when I thought to myself, “We need this in Roanoke.”
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I am the owner, executive producer and director of Roanoke Fashion Week®. My responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of the brand – from creative direction and show production to partnerships and team leadership. I focus on creating opportunities for models, designers and boutiques while ensuring every event reflects our mission of inclusivity and community impact.
How important is family to you?
Family is everything to me. They are my foundation, my motivation and my support system. Everything I build is rooted in creating something meaningful – not just for my family, but for the extended community that has become like family to me over the years.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
My playlist would be a mix of R&B, house, classic soul and feel-good hip-hop. It’s all about music that lifts your mood and keeps the energy right.
What are some of your favorite Roanoke memories?
Some of my favorites go back to my early modeling days. It’s where I first stepped into that world with my mom. And where I’ve been able to come full circle by creating opportunities for others. Seeing the community come together while building something meaningful…those are moments that I will forever cherish.
What are some of your hobbies?
My hobbies naturally align with my passion – I love fashion, styling and producing events. I also enjoy mentoring, creative planning and finding new ways to bring ideas to life. Outside of that, I value meaningful conversations and genuine connections.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of family?
Tommy Page at NFX helped shape my business mindset. I’ve also learned a great deal from mentors like Nikkita Wallace of Winston-Salem Fashion Week and Kevin Parker of Philly Fashion Week. Observing their work, receiving their guidance and attending their shows gave me valuable insight that helped me grow.
Equally important are the people who have stood beside me on this journey. Kim Preston has been with me from the beginning, through every high and low. Her consistency means everything. Sonja Gravely has also been a constant, showing up year after year with the same passion and belief in what we’re building. Diane Glenn has also become a strong driving force in helping push things forward.
There have also been many other mentors and creatives who have influenced me. Some through inspiration, others through lessons. All those experiences helped shape my commitment to creating a more inclusive and empowering space for others.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
I would say to embrace being different and trust the journey. I would remind her that she is beautiful and not to take the word “no” so personally. Every experience – good or bad – has purpose. Most importantly, I would tell her not to seek validation from others, but to walk confidently in who she is and what she’s called to do.
