Marie Antoinette was born and raised in Tampa, Florida. Passionate about community initiatives that encourage healthcare education and supports children as well as single-parent homes, Antoinette studied healthcare services, which led her into the field of anaesthesiology.

With a deep-rooted curiosity about fashion and art and how these industry sectors impact inclusivity, Antoinette’s true calling emerged when a woman in a fabric store told her “you're pretty for a dark-skinned girl”. Surprised that skin tone and color was still such a big part of society’s narrative, Antoinette started development on "MELANIN;" a documentary, book and lifestyle brand that positively demystifies colorism.

In 2021, Antoinette launched SAPPHIRE DIAMONDS. A bold and inclusive clothing brand. She also created the SAPPHIRE DIAMOND AWARDS, an award that recognizes members of the community who are making an impact through relevant socio-economic initiatives.

This year, Antoinette will launch Part II of her "MELANIN" documentary and will expand her messaging about fashion, inclusivity and art in partnership with several corporate and educational institutions around the country.

Diversity, Culture, Race, DEI Fashion, Fashion Designers, Fashion Design, Documentary, Filmmaking, Film Industry,