The 2019 Bakersfield Catwalk Fashion Show
The Bakersfield Catwalk fashion show was created in 2017 by Manuel's youngest daughter, Crystal. She had lost her job as an event coordinator and so she created this show in order to help contribute to her dad's memorial scholarship.
Manuel was married to Rachel and raised six children (Manuel the III, Angela, Andrae, Erica, Marc and Crystal). Manuel served as the director of Equal Opportunity Programs & Services (EOPS) at Bakersfield College (BC); He had compassion for those that were less fortunate. The Bakersfield Californian once declared him "Champion of the Underdog."
In late November 2012, Manuel was diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS). Throughout his entire battle with GBS, Manuel kept a positive and humorous attitude. He fought with the daily support of his wife by his side, keeping him company throughout his illness. His children and close friends visited consistently and often, rooting for his recovery. Manuel passed away in July 2015 from the affects of Guillain-Barre Syndrome.
To honor his spirit and continue his legacy of helping college students, his immediate family created the Manuel Gonzales, Jr. Memorial Scholarship with the Bakersfield College Foundation.
In response to the intense, 24-hour care Manuel received throughout his battle with GBS, his immediate family decided to dedicate at least one scholarship per year to an individual pursuing respiratory therapy or certified nursing assistance.
This fashion show was created to continue the legacy of Crystal's father, Manuel Jr. All ticket sale proceeds from the show go to the Manuel Gonzales, Jr. Memorial Scholarship hosted by the Bakersfield College Foundation.
As previously mentioned, Crystal started the Bakersfield Catwalk fashion show after being laid off from her job as an event coordinator so that she can contribute to her father's memorial scholarship. With both her event planning skills and her love of fashion, she created this fashion show and donates all ticket proceeds to her father's scholarship.
The first two shows consisted of all local designers, boutiques and talent and she hopes to expand and grow the show for years to come. If interested in sponsoring or taking part in the next fashion show, then email bakersfieldcatwalk@gmail.com and follow @bakersfieldcatwalk on instagram and Facebook.
Copyright © 2023 Crystal R. Gonzales - All Rights Reserved.
Powered by GoDaddy