Things have come full circle for Cloverdale’s Bukkie Adewuyi.
When Adewuyi came to Canada a few years ago, she used the services of a charity called Dress for Success Vancouver. Now she’ll be speaking at the group’s fundraising event in November, called the Success Luncheon, supporting the group that supported her.
Dress for Success has also named her their 2024 “Inspiration Award” recipient. The registered charity is “committed to empowering women in our community into employment, financial independence, and personal success."
Adewuyi said the charity has afforded her many opportunities to meet with other professional women and helped her build a network of contacts.
“I came to Canada from South Africa less than five years ago,” Adewuyi said in a press release. “I've made big changes in that time and am so honoured to have my success recognized with this award.”
For recieving the award, Adewuyi will speak at the luncheon about how Dress for Success helped her adjust to her new life in Canada and support her as she tried to access professional networks and be part of the community in the Lower Mainland.
"The professional women’s group is such a valuable resource that started a positive ripple effect in my life,” she added. “This organization and the friends I have made are so close to my heart.”
Adewuyi will be one of several guest speakers at the Success Luncheon along with the CBC’s Michelle Eliot.
Amanda Sayfy, the executive director for Dress for Success Vancouver, said aside from the charitable aspect, the luncheon offers her organization an opportunity to highlight the work they do and to “celebrate the dedication” of their staff and volunteers.
“In the current economic climate, and with the financial pressures in our region, it is more important than ever for Dress for Success Vancouver to secure funds to support our clients to access and sustain equitable employment,” Sayfy said. “This event is important for so many reasons.”
Dress for Success works with social and employment agencies to support those in need as they look for work. The organization was started 25 years ago out of St. Patrick's Parish in East Vancouver where the initial volunteers gave out free interview outfits to women facing “barriers to employment.”
According to the release, “Dress for Success Vancouver has served over 44,000 women in the Lower Mainland—offering dressing services, professional resources, mentoring, access to professional networks, and a community of support.”
Dress for Success will host its 12th annual luncheon Nov. 20 at the Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver. For tickets, visit successluncheon.ca.
