FGI Chicago 11th Rising Star Awards
The FGI Chicago Rising Star Awards recognize outstanding emerging professionals making an impact across Chicagoland's fashion and beauty industry. Join designers, retailers, stylists, photographers, beauty professionals, content creators, fashion artists, event producers, interior designers, models, and industry leaders for an inspiring afternoon of networking, creativity, and celebration.
Experience a professional networking grazing brunch, explore exhibits featuring this year's Rising Star finalists, celebrate the 2026 FGI Chicago Rising Star Award recipients, and connect with the people shaping the future of fashion in Chicagoland.
Honoring Sharaun Brown
FGI Chicago is proud to present the 2026 FGI Chicago Trailblazer Award to Sharaun Brown, recognizing her innovation, leadership, and influence in forging new paths within the fashion industry.
Sharaun Brown is an international supermodel, television host, speaker, media personality, and Founder & CEO of The Model Tribe. A finalist on America’s Next Top Model, she has built a dynamic career spanning fashion, television, and live entertainment, most recently serving as the Official Trophy Model Presenter at the 2025 and 2026 Grammy Awards and the 2026 Disney Legends Awards at D23. Her work has placed her onstage for iconic moments alongside Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Diana Ross, Cher, Doechii, Kendrick Lamar, Ryan Seacrest, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and many more. Through The Model Tribe, Sharaun also mentors and empowers the next generation of models and creatives.
Sharaun will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the 11th Rising Star Awards.
Event Highlights
Professional networking grazing brunch
Finalist exhibits and displays
Presentation of the 2026 FGI Chicago Trailblazer Award to Sharaun Brown
FGI Chicago Rising Star Awards presentation
Post-awards networking
Event Schedule
10:30 AM – VIP Admission
11:00 AM – General Admission
2:00 PM – Event Concludes
Dress Code
Chic Brunch Attire
Ticket Options
General Admission — $75
Includes the networking grazing brunch, finalist exhibits, Rising Star Awards presentation, and post-awards networking. Limited presentation seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
VIP Admission — $100
Includes the full General Admission experience plus 10:30 AM early entry, VIP gift bag, and first priority for available presentation seating, with VIP high-top seating available as needed.
FGI Members receive $15 off General Admission and VIP tickets with their member discount code.
Buying 2 VIP tickets? Consider a $250 Starlight Sponsorship for guaranteed reserved seating, sponsor recognition, and additional event benefits.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Support Chicagoland's emerging fashion and beauty professionals while showcasing your business to an engaged audience of industry leaders, creatives, entrepreneurs, and innovators.
Sponsorship opportunities are available directly through the event page:
Starlight Sponsor — $250
Eclipse Sponsor — $500
Constellation Sponsor — $1,000
Nebula Sponsor — $2,000
Supernova Sponsor — $5,000
Each sponsorship level includes event admission, reserved seating, marketing recognition, and additional benefits based on sponsorship level. Full benefits and specifications are available in the sponsorship packet.
View the Sponsorship Packet:
https://bit.ly/FgiRsSponsor
Learn more about the FGI Chicago Rising Star Awards:
https://fgichicago.my.canva.site/
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3777451-0
Instagram: https://go.evvnt.com/3777451-2
LinkedIn: https://go.evvnt.com/3777451-3
