Don Smith’s recent homecoming to Flint marked a reunion even larger than the one it promoted.

Billed “The Return – A Live Motion Story Fashion Presentation Show,” the event was Smith’s first collaboration with fellow city native and social media savant KendallKyndall in several years. But “The Return” also reconnected Smith with local energy and talent.

“Collaborating is what’s gotten me where I am,” he says.

Since his early days working with best friend Kendall Kyndall, a fellow high school drum major, Smith, also known as “Don the Junkman,” has traveled extensively, designing clothing for singers Fantasia Barrino, Wyclef Jean and other luminaries.

Meanwhile Kendall Kyndall was named BET’s “Social Media Hustler of The Year,” garnering 1.2 million Instagram followers.

The Return’s red carpet event co-sponsored by TheHUB Flint and runway show, brought the pair together for an April 8 celebration Smith hoped would inspire other Flint artists and entrepreneurs. Local designers, models and photographers responded with excitement and enthusiasm.

“Flint definitely came out and showed love,” Smith says. “I definitely did if for the city. It wasn’t for me.

“It turned out well. I’m very satisfied.”

Following  is an exclusive interview with Don Smith and TheHUB’s Kala Wilburn, who was also The Return’s red carpet host.

Unless otherwise noted, photos courtesy of Don Smith

  Don “The Junkman” Smith, Fantasia Barrino, Flint’s fashion culture, Kala Wilburn, Kendall Kyndall, KendallKyndall, Social Media Hustler of The Year, The Return – A Live Motion Story Fashion Presentation Show, Wyclef Jean

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