From Project Runway to Rural PA

Danville, PA – At the DRIVE office we’ve had a plethora of memorable days, but among the most exciting was the arrival of fashion designer Ayana Ife. Having recently moved to Danville, a quick online search for local resources for entrepreneurs led her to DRIVE’s front door.    
Known for her groundbreaking work in modest fashion and her appearance as runner up on Project Runway Season 16, Ayana quickly found the resources she needed to support her growing business through the creation of her design studio at the DRIVE Professional Building and the support of staff at DRIVE and the Bucknell University Small Business Development Center.
With a background that spans more than a decade in the fashion industry, Ayana has built a career rooted in purpose: combining design, mission, and functionality. Her work has been featured in Marie Claire and Vogue Arabia and her commitment to ethical, sustainable, and inclusive fashion continues to gain recognition worldwide.

Launching Ayana Active
In 2025, Ayana launched Ayana Active, a performance-ready modest wear line designed to support women’s movement and confidence. The debut collection, titled “Pep Talk,” features coordinated activewear sets that are stylish, functional, and affirming. Each piece is designed with thoughtful detail—including upside-down motivational messages the wearer can read while working out—emphasizing the line’s focus on wellness, identity, and self-empowerment.

International Stage: Abu Dhabi and Milan
Ayana showcased the “Pep Talk” collection at Modest Fashion Week in Abu Dhabi in April 2025. Her runway presentation was part of an event spotlighting modest fashion as a growing global industry. She also participated in industry discussions that explored how values-based fashion is reshaping international markets, reinforcing her commitment to thoughtful growth.
Soon after, Ayana brought her work to The White Show in Milan, one of Europe’s premier fashion trade events. Her attendance helped position Ayana Active on the global stage and allowed her to engage with buyers, explore potential partnerships, and continue refining her business approach and brand messaging in line with her design philosophy.

Global Reach, Rural Roots
Since moving to the area, Ayana has connected with the region’s small business ecosystem and found support through DRIVE’s entrepreneurial resources. As part of her engagement with DRIVE, she’s presented to local and state leaders and elected officials, made local business connections, and shared her journey with fellow entrepreneurs in the region. This April, she pitched Ayana Active at the Ben Franklin Technology Partners Venture Idol earning the $2,500 Judges’ Choice Award.

Ayana’s presence adds to the diversity of industries represented in the greater Susquehanna Valley—and serves as a powerful reminder that creative, globally-minded businesses can thrive in rural communities. Her experience reflects the kind of entrepreneur DRIVE is proud to support: bold, mission-driven, and committed to building something lasting.
DRIVE is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs at every stage—from concept to scale—and to help connect them with the tools, space, and networks they need to succeed. Ayana’s story is one of many that demonstrate the power of local infrastructure in supporting global ambitions.
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Interested in launching or growing your business in the region?
DRIVE can help. Explore our incubator spaces, resource navigation, and tailored support for small business owners and prospective entrepreneurs. Email us to learn more at info@driveindustry.com!