Next Generation Children’s Show Director
-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Kim T. Preston and how would you describe yourself to someone who has never met you?
I’d say I’m a thoughtful and caring person who leads with fairness and professionalism. I’m someone who shows up for others, often putting their needs before my own. I try to bring a sense of humor and lightness into any space that I’m in. At my core, I’m selfless, supportive and committed to creating positive experiences for the people around me.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I was born and raised in Roanoke in a home where respect wasn’t optional – it was a way of life. My parents worked hard and made sure that my siblings and I were always supported, loved and disciplined. We grew up in a neighborhood where everyone looked out for each other. The adults on our street helped raise all the kids. When people say, “it takes a village,” I understand that deeply, because that’s exactly how I was brought up.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
I chose to start working while giving myself time to think about whether I wanted to attend college. At graduation, I was awarded a cheerleading scholarship, which provided me the opportunity to continue my education and step confidently into the next chapter of my life.
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
My official title is Roanoke Fashion Week Director of the Next Generation Children’s Fashion Show. In this role, I have the privilege of coaching young models as they learn to walk the runway and develop poise, confidence and stage presence. I am truly grateful to be supported by a dedicated team of coaches – Sonja Parker, Lisa Holt, Kim Garst, and LaSonya Poindexter. We all share the responsibility of preparing our models and helping each show come to life.
How important is family to you?
Family is extremely important to me – they’re my foundation and my greatest support system. At the end of the day, they’re all I have, and that means everything to me.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
It would include Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, J Moss, Yolanda Adams, Rance Allen, Luther Vandross, the Commodores, Earth, Wind & Fire and T.I. I would make sure to mix in a little jazz as well.
What are some of your favorite Roanoke memories?
These all come from the experiences that shaped me over the years – Hilda Day’s Charm School, cheerleading, track, gymnastics and modeling with the Jasmine Models, which was founded and owned by the late Harry Alexander. More recently, I’d say being part of Roanoke Fashion Week for the past seven years under Erica Jenkins. But above everything else, my greatest memories will always be raising my two beautiful daughters.
What are some of your hobbies?
My hobbies include spending quality time with my family, especially my daughters and my grandbaby, going for walks, and listening to music. I enjoy cooking new recipes, traveling with my husband and having cookouts and dinners with loved ones. Talking on the phone with my sisters is always a highlight. I also value staying connected with friends and making time to nurture those relationships.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of family?
Throughout the years, different individuals have influenced me in meaningful ways, each contributing something unique to my growth and journey. I am thankful for Eric Johnson (Channel 10/Sports Director), whose presence as host has been an important part of the Roanoke Fashion Week Kids Show. His contribution has meant so much to all of us.
I also want to express my sincere gratitude to Erica Jenkins. For the past two years, she has trusted me to oversee the kids’ show and has welcomed my ideas, my experiences and my leadership. Her confidence in me has allowed me to lead with integrity and purpose, and I am truly appreciative.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
I would tell her to never be afraid to reach for the sky. Dream bigger, believe deeper, and trust that she is capable of more than she ever imagined. I’d remind her to be careful about whom she accepts criticism from. Not every voice deserves space in her spirit. I would tell her to stand tall, be unapologetically herself, and make choices that honor her future. And I’d encourage her to save her money, stay focused and remember that every step she takes is shaping the strong woman she will become.
