La La Anthony is pledging her support for Black designers during New York’s biggest week in fashion. To uplift emerging HBCU designers during New York Fashion Week, the superstar –who attended the prestigious HBCU Howard University– has partnered with UPS for the company's third season as a sponsor of NYFW: The Shows. 

The upcoming show, known as "BIG MOTION," will showcase the creations of three Black designers who are alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The featured designers include the dynamic duo of Nola McEachin and Shaq Robotham, founders of The Brand Label, Undra Duncan, the visionary behind Undra Celeste New York, and Chelsea Grays, renowned for her eponymous label. Each of these talented designers has been granted $150,000 to support their respective fashion presentations.

Speaking with PEOPLE, Anthony emphasized the need to amplify marginalized voices within the fashion industry, particularly Black designers. She passionately expressed, "The fashion world has historically overlooked Black communities, despite our significant influence in setting trends. It's crucial that we receive the support and recognition we deserve." She further highlighted, "HBCUs are incubators for incredibly talented creative entrepreneurs, and I applaud UPS for its commitment to diversity by investing in programs like this."

For the actress, the opportunity to assist others holds immense personal satisfaction. She shared, "There's nothing quite like the feeling of helping individuals with a vision and passion, especially when they lack the necessary resources. Putting people in positions to succeed is truly fulfilling." Anthony believes in the power of belief, noting, "Sometimes, all someone needs is for someone else to believe in them."

Reflecting on her college experience at Howard University, the BMF actor emphasized the importance of forming connections with like-minded individuals who shared her experiences. She expressed her desire to be surrounded by peers who "looked like me, understood what it meant to be me, spoke like me, walked the same path, and shared the same cultural background, including the daily challenges we faced."