Fashioning a cause

Fashion and mentoring refugee students are usually worlds apart but a style extravaganza next week will bring the two together.
Organised by Business and Professional Women (BPW) Geelong, the fashion show features top frocks, shoes and headwear from leading Pakington Street boutiques.
BPW Geelong President Belinda Lyle said funds raised by the fashion spectacular would go to BPW’s structured two-year student mentoring program which supports selected students in year 11 and 12 at North Geelong Secondary College.
“Our current program supports seven young ladies who are refugees from the Thailand-Burma border,” Ms Lyle said.
“With English as a second language, cultural differences and financial challenges, VCE is hard enough without some of the added pressures these young women have in their lives.
“These girls need structure and guidance and we tackle subjects such as personal hygiene, diet, study skills, how to start a conversation, public speaking, motivation, goal setting and relaxation techniques.”
Ms Lyle said students attended monthly BPW events and had the opportunity to network with women of all ages from small business owners through to corporate executives.
“Upon graduation, students are treated to having their hair and make-up done, going shopping for clothes suitable for work, and having professional headshots taken by Pam Hutchinson Photography.
“We have been funding the mentoring program for some time but with an additional number of students coming on board this year, we are seeking financial support from local businesses and organisations.”
The Ageless Beauty, Fashion and Style show will be emceed by personal stylist Emma Murphy of Style Duo.
Pakington Street stores supporting the show include Harley and Me Boutique which will be showing its exclusive range and The Laboratory with trendy brands including Alessi, Ellis and Dewey.
Designer outfits from Benning Boutique with well-known brands such as Mela Purdie, Verge and Anthea Crawford will also be on show.
Sergio Fashionable Italian Shoes, the stunning headwear collection from Alice Goes Out and make-up tips from Flawless Beauty Concept will be on display.
The fundraiser will be held on 14 June at 5.30pm at The Mercure, Geelong.
Tickets, including a cocktail, a two-course meal and a $50 goodie bag, are $80 and are available at trybooking.com/LGMF.