GOLDSBORO, N.C. — Bryan Rashon Lewis, a 34-year-old educator, coach, and multi-talented artist, is bringing something unprecedented to Goldsboro: a family-friendly sneaker showcase designed to unite the community and showcase the city in a positive light. Scheduled for August 9th from 12 PM to 5 PM at Rosewood High School, “Bryan’s Sneaker Showcase” represents more than just a convention—it’s a testament to resilience, community spirit, and the power of perseverance.
From Tragedy to Triumph: A Story of Determination
Lewis’s journey to organizing this community event is remarkable. Fifteen years ago, on October 11, 2010, his life changed dramatically when a severe car accident left him paralyzed and requiring a wheelchair. The accident necessitated multiple surgeries, including six throat surgeries, and what many would consider insurmountable challenges. However, Lewis chose a different path than despair.
“I could have been in this predicament for 15 years depressed in my home, or I could be what I’m doing now, and I choose to be who I am now,” Lewis explained during a recent interview.
Rather than letting his circumstances define him, Lewis has built an extraordinary life. Returning to work at Zaxby’s in 2012, and started back with coaching in 2024 as a beloved coach and teacher at his alma mater, Rosewood High School. He has released 17 music albums since 2018, all produced using only his fingers and thumbs. His accomplishments extend beyond music—he’s an actor, the first paraplegic model ambassador for Fashion Nova, a podcaster, and now an event organizer.
More Than Just Sneakers: A Community Vision
Lewis emphasizes that his showcase differs significantly from typical sneaker conventions. “It’s not just about sneakers. It’s not just about clothes,” he said. “It’s about bringing people of all races, religions, whether you’re gay, straight, doesn’t matter what background you are, bringing a community together for something good.”
The event will feature diverse vendors including massage therapists, food trucks, local businesses, and the Arts Council of Wayne County. Lewis is personally funding a sneaker competition with $500 for first place, $275 for second, and $175 for third place. The showcase will also include live music, dancing, and opportunities for community networking.
Changing Perceptions of Goldsboro
Lewis acknowledges that Goldsboro has faced challenges with its reputation. “I’ve noticed over the years, Goldsboro has gotten a bad rap for crime, drugs, things like that,” he observed. “When I talk to some people from outside of the city, they’re like, ‘I don’t want to come to Goldsboro.'”
His vision extends beyond a single event. Lewis hopes to eventually move the showcase to the Maxwell Convention Center, creating an annual tradition that draws visitors from Charlotte, Greensboro, Durham, Raleigh, and Greenville. “My goal is by the third year, we will have this Maxwell Convention Center” he said.
Community Support and Charitable Giving
Despite organizing the event independently and funding it personally, Lewis has received support from various community partners. Saksys, his former employer, previously helped renovate his home for wheelchair accessibility after his accident. The Arts Council of Wayne County is participating with a raffle component.
Lewis plans to donate a portion of the event’s proceeds to a local charity, carefully vetting organizations to ensure legitimacy. “I want it to be a charity, or even if it’s like something at the Boys and Girls Club, I want to give it to something in the community,” he stated.
Accessibility and Family Focus
Admission to the event is $10, with children 5 and under entering free—a deliberate decision Lewis made after observing other conventions charging children. The event will feature cashless entry through tap-to-pay systems, and Lewis is encouraging attendees to bring their families for a wholesome community experience.
Album Release and Business Innovation
Coinciding with the showcase, Lewis will release a new album. Attendees can scan QR codes to access his music platforms and receive 10% off merchandise at his table—a creative marketing strategy that combines community engagement with artistic promotion.
Looking Toward the Future
Lewis’s ultimate message transcends the event itself. As someone who has achieved remarkable success while navigating a significant disability, he serves as an inspiration for perseverance and community engagement. “Don’t let nothing stop you,” he encourages. “If you’ve got one arm, if you’ve got one leg, if you’ve got both arms and both legs… if I can do it, you can do it too.”
The Bryan’s Sneaker Showcase represents more than a local event—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when individual determination meets community spirit. As Lewis continues to experience gradual improvements in his condition, reporting new sensations and feelings returning to his body, his faith and commitment to serving others remain unwavering.
Event Details
What: Bryan’s Sneaker Showcase
When: August 9th, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Rosewood High School Gymnasium, 900 Rosewood Road, Goldsboro, NC 27534
Admission: $10 (children 5 and under free)
Features: Vendor booths, food trucks, sneaker competition, live music, dancing, massage therapy, and community networking
For more information about the event, making donations for the event, or to inquire about vendor opportunities, supporters can connect with Lewis through:
Facebook: Bryan Rashon Lewis
Paypal: [email protected] or @bnice2514
Zelle: [email protected]
Cashapp: $BillyRUReady
Phone Number: 919-222-6080
Bryan Lewis continues to coach and teach at Rosewood High School while pursuing his various artistic and entrepreneurial endeavors. His story serves as a powerful reminder that circumstances need not define limitations, and that community engagement can transform individual challenges into collective opportunities for growth and unity.
