Desmond Sam never waited for a lane to open up for him—he created his own. From growing up in Brooklyn’s Flatbush to becoming a force in New York’s fashion and nightlife scenes, Dez has always trusted his instincts, even when the world around him couldn’t yet see his vision. His journey is one of self-determination, of making space where none existed, and of refusing to conform to an industry that often tried to box him in. Whether navigating fashion as a young Black queer creative or building Dine with Dez, the hottest new dinner party series popping up in cities across the country, Dez has proven time and time again that when the doors don’t open, you knock harder—or better yet, build your own.