Behind the Runway: Nia Noelle on Fashion Week Columbus and the Power of Local Style

Did you know Columbus is ranked as the third largest city in the country for fashion design? Most people don’t — but Nia Noelle wants to change that.In this premiere episode of Inside Northwest Columbus, I sit down with Nia Noelle, the powerhouse Program Director behind Fashion Week Columbus, to talk about how our city has become a national force in fashion—and why it’s time more people took notice.We cover a lot in this conversation:What goes into planning a full week of fashion shows and eventsHow Fashion Week Columbus helps local designers get discoveredThe role fashion plays in building community and opportunityWhy Columbus is a creative city on the riseNia also opens up about her personal journey—how she went from radio personality to nonprofit leader, and why she believes fashion should be accessible, inclusive, and empowering.This year’s Fashion Week Columbus runs September 10–14, and it’s packed with opportunities to engage with designers, experience the runway, and connect with the city’s creative scene. Whether you’re into fashion or not, you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for what’s happening right here in our backyard.If you’re a small business owner, a creative, or someone who just loves to see passion in action, you’re going to love this one.Want to attend this year’s shows or get involved?Visit: fashionweekcolumbus.orgAnd be sure to subscribe to Inside Northwest Columbus — where we shine a spotlight on the people, ideas, and businesses shaping the future of our community.