Dress for Success empowers disadvantaged women to success by providing a range of training and interview skills programmes. Our service prepares them to enter, or re-enter the workforce, to regain self-confidence and self-esteem, and to become the best versions of themselves. Financial success starts with the ability to earn an income, and most of our clients have families to support, so gaining employment allows them to find housing, get children to school, and to put groceries in the cupboard – simple goals that many of us give little thought to.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be true to yourself and don’t second-guess your decisions. Embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Oh, and stay away from the red Fiat 125 – it isn’t the great Italian you’re looking for!
What do you love about your job?
Many of our clients have been unemployed for some time, whether through challenges life has thrown at them, or by circumstances, such as redundancy or divorce. The ability to help them regain their confidence and their sense of purpose is humbling. Our clients have such strength and courage, it’s so rewarding when they discover their own self-belief.
Tell us about a recent Bay event you have attended?
I love attending food festivals and markets. There are so many wonderful flavours and ideas that I get quite carried away with the selections. I will never forget being introduced to smoked garlic at the Mt Maunganui Saturday market – I use it in so many dishes.
What would you study if time and money allowed?
I would love to retrain as a Massage Therapist. I feel there are so many benefits from massage and reflection, balancing the body and mind, and taking time to remove ourselves from a busy world, just to focus on our own body’s needs.
Where would you love to visit one day, and why?
Every girl dreams of visiting Paris, however, my preference would be the south of France and the lovely villages that meander along the wine regions and around the Pyrenees mountains. Remote, picturesque, and very French.
How do you clear your mind after a stressful day?
Swimming and walking my dog, Max, are my go-to ways to exercise. Swimming is my favourite stress reliever – once I’m in the water, everything just melts away except for the rhythm of swimming.
