As we begin the countdown to Illuminate 2026, we’re excited to introduce some of the incredible people, partners, and creative minds helping bring this year’s Annual Fashion Show to life.
This month, we’re proud to feature Amari Samya, Founder and CEO of Selfie Cincy. Through innovation, creativity, and a passion for building community, Amari has created one of Cincinnati’s most unique experiential destinations – making her an exciting partner as we continue preparing for Illuminate.
Meet Amari
“Amari Samya is an entrepreneur, creative strategist, and community builder dedicated to using storytelling, technology, and immersive experiences to connect people and strengthen communities. She is the Founder and CEO of Selfie Cincy, Cincinnati’s immersive content house and selfie museum, where visitors become the work of art through interactive installations, events, and creative programming.
A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a degree in Theatre Performance and a Global Education Certificate, Amari combines her background in entertainment, marketing, and business development to create innovative experiences that support tourism, small businesses, and emerging creators. She recently completed her MBA at the University of Cincinnati’s Lindner College of Business.
Recognized for her leadership and impact, Amari is a Mortar Cincinnati Judges’ Choice and People’s Choice Award recipient, Warren Bennis Leadership Scholar, and active advocate for entrepreneurship and workforce development throughout the City of Cincinnati. Through Selfie Cincy, she has welcomed thousands of visitors, partnered with local organizations, and created opportunities for youth, artists, and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents.
Amari’s mission is simple: create spaces where people feel seen, celebrated, and empowered to share their light.”
Why We’re Excited
At Dress for Success Cincinnati, we believe confidence has the power to transform lives. Through career development, professional styling, and community support, we help women step into new opportunities with confidence and purpose.
That shared commitment to empowering others is what makes our partnership with Amari and Selfie Cincy such a natural fit. Together, we’re creating an experience that celebrates confidence, creativity, and connection while supporting women throughout Greater Cincinnati.
This October, guests attending Illuminate 2026 will have the opportunity to experience a special collaboration with Selfie Cincy as part of an unforgettable evening dedicated to empowerment, transformation, and impact.
While we’ll keep a few surprises under wraps for now, trust us when we say – you won’t want to miss it.
Stay Tuned…
This is just the beginning.
Over the next several months, The Glow Up: Behind Illuminate will take you behind the scenes to meet the people, partnerships, and creative collaborators helping bring Illuminate 2026 to life.
Stay tuned as we visit Selfie Cincy for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look and share more about the immersive experience coming to this year’s Annual Fashion Show.
