South LA showed out. At VSEDC’s Inaugural Grand Pitch in 2024, founders from across the community put their vision on the line—and proved why this neighborhood is a live wire for entrepreneurship. We’re proud to share that Crystal Crawford, founder of Liberated Eyewear, took home third place and a $10,000 prize, sponsored by Comerica. Consider it fuel for the next chapter of advanced lens tech, fashion-forward design, and community impact.

Why does this matter? Because programs like VSEDC don’t just hand out trophies—they build founders. From hands-on coaching to real-world pitch pressure, the support turns great ideas into bankable businesses that hire locally, educate customers, and raise the bar for what’s possible in South LA.

Crystal said it best:

“I would like to give VSEDC a shoutout for recognizing what the businesses in South LA are doing. All the resources they have to support us are very meaningful. I’d like to give a personal shoutout to Rashunda Rene, [who coached us for the competition.] She’s just phenomenal in mentorship. She’s such a pillar of this entire program. She did one-on-one coaching to make sure I was assured of myself before doing [the Grand Pitch Competition].” — third place winner Crystal Crawford, Liberated Eyewear

That confidence—and that community—are the real wins. The check helps, too. We’ll be putting this momentum toward expanding ClarityCTRL™ HD Digital Lenses, leveling up education around eye health, and continuing our mission to merge luxury design with real-world vision protection.

Huge thanks to VSEDC, Comerica, and coach Rashunda Rene for investing in founders who build where they live.

Next up: more innovation, more access, more clear vision.

Want in? Join the list, shop the collection, and see what precision looks like: www.liberatedeyewear.com

Relive the excitement: VSEDC’s Inaugural Grand Pitch Competition is a Resounding Success - VSEDC

Learn how you can help:Grand Pitch 2025 - VSEDC

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