In a room full of snapbacks and kicks, ‘swagg’ spoke louder than words. Entourage, I Am Music and Media (I.A.M.M.) and My Unlimited Style teamed up to host “#Str8kicknit” in Stallings Ballroon on Nov. 2.

“The purpose of the event was to crown the King of Kickz. Each person had a display of at least 15 pairs of shoes that defined their style,” said James Gerrald, CEO of My Unlimited Style. His inspiration for this event came from the diversity that he witnessed around campus. “My team and I started talking about hosting an event surrounding sneakers and Entourage and I.A.M.M. wanted to be a part of the movement, so we collaborated and had a successful event,” Gerrald continued.

The contestants were not the only ones who had a chance to shine. Venders also came out to support the event. One vender, Sole Quest, informed students of other sneaker events as well as sneaker scholarships offered to the winners of these competetions.

Along with the men, females displayed their fresh kicks too. “Being one of the only females in the competition I wasn’t intimidated and I had just as many shoes as the men did,” said Ashley Mitchell, a senior at North Carolina Central University. Michelle had an advantage on the other ladies when it came to certain sneakers. “I wear size 7 ½ or 8 inch shoe in men’s sizes, so I can buy all the shoes that the men can buy,” continued Mitchell, as she smiled. “I have over 100 pairs of sneakers and I only displayed 22 pairs of shoes.”

Students were so interested in the array of sneakers exhibited that they even purchased them. “The event was great! There were a lot of people buying sneakers. I even thought about getting a pair for myself,” said David Johnson, a senior engineering major. Johnson also said he would definitely come out and display his own sneakers.

DJ’s were also able to compete and hype the crowd with their mixture of music. “I think this is a great opportunity to show my skills. I love music and I also love fashion, so this event made sense to attend and participate in,” said DJ Cuttz , an alumnus of Winston-Salem State University.

Eminet Taitt , a senior from Winston Salem State University, was crowned the King of Kickz. “I was very happy I was crowned the winner of this competition. There were a lot of collections here that were dope but I guess mine stood out.”

The program attracted a diverse crowd of college students. “This was such a success that we will do this event again. I am grateful to have had such a great turn out and supporters. So everyone should come back next semester to kick it with us,” said Gerrald, as he smiled.

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• Alexis White & Joliee Havner, Contributors