Meet Kelly C. Hood

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kelly C. Hood. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Kelly C. , so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?

Being the only one in the room has taught me how to stand firm in who I am, even when I feel unseen or misunderstood. I’ve learned that my perspective is my power; it allows me to bring something different to the table that no one else can. Instead of shrinking, I use those moments to educate, to connect, and to lead by example.

It’s also taught me to prepare twice as hard, to walk in confidence, and to build relationships rooted in respect. I remind myself that I belong in every space I walk into, not because of validation from others, but because I’ve done the work to be there. And when I show up fully as myself, I make space for the next person who looks like me to walk in a little easier.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

a fashion model, show producer, and creative director passionate about curating spaces that highlight talent, innovation, and confidence. As the producer of Danville Fashion Week and the founder of the Southern Virginia Fashion Council, I’ve dedicated my work to building platforms that showcase diversity and elevate the next generation of creative professionals be remembering our textile history

Beyond fashion, I’m deeply committed to my community — from advocating for mental health awareness through Focus Point Mental Health, to inspiring young women as the Bonner Middle School Cheerleading Coach. I believe in teaching confidence, discipline, and teamwork, both on the runway and on the sidelines.
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And at home, I’m proud to stand beside my husband, a dedicated city councilman, as we both work in different ways to serve and strengthen our community. Together, we believe in showing what leadership looks like not just in title, but in action.”

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Resilience has carried me through moments when I didn’t have all the answers or when doors didn’t open right away. Whether in fashion production, coaching, or community work, I’ve had to remind myself that setbacks aren’t the end, they’re part of the process. My advice to anyone early in their journey is this: don’t let “no” discourage you. Let it redirect you. Keep showing up, because consistency will take you places talent alone can’t.

Relationship building has been the foundation of every opportunity I’ve had. I’ve learned the importance of connecting with people — genuinely — not just for what they can do, but for who they are. Networking isn’t about collecting contacts; it’s about creating community. For those starting out, invest time in listening, learning from others, and showing up where you can add value. That’s how you earn trust and open doors.

Vision has kept me grounded and forward-focused. As a producer, coach, and leader, you have to be able to see what doesn’t yet exist — and believe in it enough to bring others along. My advice? Take time to clarify your why. Know what drives you and revisit it often. That’s what keeps you aligned when things get hard.

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?

We’re always looking to collaborate with people and organizations who share our passion for creativity, community, and purpose.

That includes designers, models, stylists, photographers, mental health advocates, educators, and local businesses who want to be part of something that uplifts others and highlights talent across Southern Virginia and beyond. Whether it’s through Danville Fashion Week, nHAUS Magazine or community events, we believe collaboration creates lasting impact.

We value working with folks who are:
• Innovative – those who think outside the box and bring fresh ideas.
• Community-minded – people who want to give back and make a difference.
• Committed – individuals who show up with integrity and follow-through.

If you’re reading this and feel aligned with that energy, we’d love to connect. You can reach out directly at [email protected], or send a message through any of our platforms to start the conversation. Let’s create, inspire, and build together.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thehausoffashion.net

Image Credits

Designer and Photographer- Jasmine Rhodes / Kitty & Rhodws