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Breaking barriers for women in Kelowna
Starting anew in a foreign land can be daunting, especially for women like Ghazal Shaloodegi, who moved to Canada to pursue her studies at UBC-Okanagan. As a single mother, she faced not only a language barrier but also cultural challenges that impacted her self-esteem.
Fortunately, organizations like Dress for Success are stepping in to provide the support needed to navigate these hurdles. This non-profit has been a beacon of hope for many women in Kelowna, offering resources that empower them to thrive in their careers.
Services that make a difference
Dress for Success has been operating globally for nearly three decades, but its Kelowna branch is relatively new, having opened just six years ago. According to Lori Stevenson, the executive director, the organization caters to women from various backgrounds, ages, and career stages.
“We serve women from just under 18 years old to over 60,” she explains. The services provided include access to professional attire, mentorship programs, and career services such as resume building and interview preparation. These resources are crucial for women looking to break into the workforce or advance their careers.
Growing demand amid rising challenges
In recent years, the demand for Dress for Success’s services has surged, with the number of clients tripling in just three years. Stevenson attributes this increase to the rising cost of living and housing, as well as the influx of newcomers due to global events like the war in Ukraine.
“We have a lot of new arrivals to the country,” she notes, highlighting the urgent need for support in these challenging times. The organization is gearing up for its annual fundraising campaign, ‘Your Hour, Her Power,’ which runs throughout March and coincides with International Women’s Day.
This initiative encourages the public to donate a portion of their salary to help women in the community achieve their employment goals.
Transforming lives, one woman at a time
For women like Shaloodegi, the impact of Dress for Success is profound. “They give you that opportunity to hear you, to see you and to give you that self-esteem that OK, you can do it,” she shares. As the organization prepares for an expected influx of around 300 clients in 2025, the community’s support becomes even more vital. Donations, whether monetary or gently-used business attire, can significantly change lives. To learn more about how to contribute or to seek assistance, visit the Dress for Success website and become part of this empowering movement.
