Award-Winning Fashion Model Justyn Burgest-Graham Inspires Dallas County High School Students to Turn Passion into Purpose

Photographed by GZTV, Franklin Salters

Dallas County, Alabama – On May 6, award-winning international fashion model and successful Atlanta entrepreneur, CEO of GZTV, Justyn Burgest-Graham delivered an inspiring keynote speech titled “Turning Passion into Purpose” at Dallas County High School. The 23-year-old Georgia State University graduate, known for his standout appearances at New York, London, and Atlanta Fashion Weeks, shared his journey from aspiring model to influential entrepreneur, encouraging students to embrace their insecurities, love themselves, and boldly pursue their dreams.

Photographed by GZTV, Frank Salters, Popular Theory

From Runways to the Big Screen

Justyn’s influence extends far beyond the runway. In addition to walking for global fashion weeks, he has worked with iconic brands like Nike, Adidas, and Jordan. His on-screen presence includes a role in the film Praise This, directed by Tina Gordon and starring Druski, Chloe Bailey, and Kountry Wayne. Beyond his own career, Justyn has mentored over 100+ models now signed to top agencies like MMG, Ursula Wiedmann Models, Alima Model Management, and agencies in Tokyo, LA, and NYC, demonstrating his commitment to lifting others as he rises.

Photographed by GZTV, Franklin Salters

Empowering the Next Generation

The event, coordinated by Amir Kelly, Dallas County High Marching Band Director, came just ahead of the band’s first conference appearance in eight years, set to take place at Tuskegee University. Kelly, reflecting on the impact of the visit, said, “We wanted Justyn to bring inspiration to our kids, and they were very excited for this moment.”

As he spoke to the students of the first high school ever established in Dallas County, Alabama, Justyn shared a message of self-acceptance and fearlessness, urging them to see their unique traits as strengths.

Photographed by GZTV, Franklin Salters

Building the Future with WHYME

Justyn also used the occasion to announce the launch of his new nonprofit, WHYME, aimed at empowering young creatives at universities across the nation. As part of this initiative, he introduced the $3,000 Fashion Futures Scholarship, designed to support an emerging creative graduating in 2026. This scholarship is a testament to his belief in the power of creativity and the importance of investing in future leaders.

For more information on the scholarship, visit www.gztvnetwork.com/whyme.

Photographed by GZTV, Franklin Salters, Wearing Astrum Tech Headphones and Drinking Renegade Lemonade Sparkling Wine

A Visionary Approach to Fashion

Arriving in a vintage trench coat, classic vintage dress shirt, tailored Express blazer and pants, and low-top Doc Marten boots, Justyn set the tone for the event with style and confidence. He prepped for his keynote with Astrum Tech headphones and a glass of Renegade Lemonade Sparkling Wine, embodying the blend of creativity and confidence that defines his brand.

Photographed by GZTV, Franklin Salters

A Message of Inclusivity

Justyn’s words resonated beyond the runway, even inspiring a teacher in the audience who shared, “I wanted to know if I could model myself, and he said, ‘Fashion is for everyone,’ and that I can do it at my size.”

As Justyn Burgest-Graham continues to push boundaries in the fashion world, his message of turning passion into purpose serves as a powerful reminder that true success lies in embracing who you are and empowering others to do the same.