A Gown, A Girl, A Legacy: Meet Nizyah Hall, Our 2025 Prom Girl

Confidence. Grace. Resilience. Nizyah in her custom butterfly gown, designed with her journey in mind.

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At Maryum K. Shadeed, fashion is more than fabric it’s identity, affirmation, and freedom stitched into every seam. Each year, we honor this mission by selecting two deserving young women one junior, one senior to receive a custom-made prom gown. It’s our way of boosting self-esteem one thread at a time and reminding them they are worthy of feeling radiant.

This spring, we had the absolute joy of designing for Nizyah Hall, a 17-year-old junior at Mergenthaler Vocational-Technical High School. Her story, strength, and vision made this year’s project unforgettable.

A Butterfly in Bloom

When Nizyah shared that she wanted her gown to symbolize a butterfly, we knew this would be special. Butterflies represent transformation, freedom, and growth through hardship and that’s exactly what she embodies.

She is the eldest of her siblings, a quiet leader in her family, and a young woman who continues to blossom despite unimaginable loss. Two years ago, Nizyah lost her father to gun violence. His absence is deeply felt but his spirit walks with her through every milestone.

Though he couldn’t be physically present, Nizyah carried her father’s love with her.

Held by her mother’s love, Nizyah walks in strength. Her siblings Big sister, nurturer, and leader.

The Design & The Dress

This year’s design was bold, ethereal, and unapologetically elegant just like the young woman wearing it. Crafted in a radiant emerald green, the knee-length gown featured soft skin-toned tulle beneath and shimmering gold appliqué across the bodice, placed to resemble a butterfly in flight. The symbolism was intentional. It was a nod to transformation, grace, and resilience all the things Nizyah carries within her.

Completing the look were delicate strappy heels adorned with tiny golden butterflies reminding us that even the smallest details can carry meaning.

This wasn’t just a prom dress. It was her armor. Her celebration. Her statement of becoming.

Designer Maryum K. Shadeed with Nizyah a moment stitched with care and sisterhood.

Thank You to the Village

Moments like this don’t happen alone. They are made possible by generosity, care, and belief. We extend our deepest thanks to everyone who made this year’s Prom Girl gift possible:

🦋 Laaiqah Abrams

🦋 Seana Coulter

🦋 Mya Henson

🦋 Blair Harding

🦋 Jewl Johnson (Nizyah’s loving mother)

🦋 Geneva Shadeed

🦋 Dorien Robinson

🦋 Shamika Thompson

🦋 Jasmin Wilson

And to 📸 Trey Smith thank you for donating your photography services and capturing every magical detail.

Why We Do This?

Prom is more than a night. For some, it’s a reminder that they are seen, celebrated, and deeply valued. For Nizyah, it was a turning point proof that joy is still possible, even when grief walks beside you.

At Maryum K. Shadeed, we’ll continue to boost self-esteem one thread at a time because every young woman deserves to feel beautiful, powerful, and whole.

Wrapped in love. Rooted in legacy. Ready for what’s next.

Want to help us create the next unforgettable moment? Every purchase supports this mission. Shop with us, donate, or spread the word and help another girl step into her light.

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