Stepping Out and Pitching Status Apparel DC at Pull Up & Pitch DC

In September, I did something that pushed me out of my comfort zone — I stepped up and pitched Status Apparel DC at Black Girl Ventures’ Pull Up & Pitch DC event.

For those unfamiliar, Pull Up & Pitch is a high-energy pitch competition designed to give entrepreneurs the chance to share their ideas, connect with other business owners, and get real-time feedback — all in just a few minutes. No slides, no fancy presentations. Just you, your story, and your vision.

I didn’t walk away with a win this time, but honestly, I gained something just as valuable. The experience gave me the opportunity to introduce Status Apparel DC to a new audience — people who had never heard our story before — and it reminded me how important it is to keep sharpening how I tell that story.

When you’re building something you believe in, every moment like this matters. It’s easy to only celebrate the victories, but sometimes the lessons and the growth come from the moments that don’t end with a trophy.

I left inspired by the other entrepreneurs in the room — their creativity, passion, and drive reminded me why I started this journey in the first place. At the end of the day, you win some, you lose some, but it’s always worth a try.

The next opportunity is just around the corner, and I’ll be ready for it — with a stronger pitch and an even clearer sense of what Status Apparel DC stands for.

Thanks to Black Girl Ventures for creating spaces where entrepreneurs like me can pull up, share our stories, and keep growing.

Until next time —Keep showing up. Keep building. Keep believing.

— Gabriel Massalley

Founder, Status Apparel DC

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Recap Video for Black Girl Ventures Pull Up and Pitch DC event