A New Chapter: Ghazal Shaloodegi’s Journey to Canada and Self-Discovery
Ghazal Shaloodegi, a determined single mother from Kelowna, British Columbia, embarked on a life-changing journey when she moved to Canada a few years ago to pursue her education at the University of British Columbia-Okanagan. Leaving behind the familiarity of her homeland, she faced the daunting task of building a new life in a foreign country. For Shaloodegi, the challenges were multifaceted—navigating a new language, adapting to a different culture, and rebuilding her self-esteem in an unfamiliar environment. Despite these obstacles, her resilience and determination have been key to overcoming them. Her story is one of courage and transformation, made possible in part by the support of a nonprofit organization called Dress for Success.
Overcoming Barriers: The Role of Dress for Success
For many women like Ghazal Shaloodegi, the journey to independence is fraught with challenges. Dress for Success, an international nonprofit organization with a presence in Kelowna for the past six years, has been instrumental in helping women overcome these barriers. Lori Stevenson, the executive director of Dress for Success Kelowna, explains that the organization serves women of all ages and backgrounds, from teenagers to those in their 60s, providing them with the tools and confidence they need to succeed. “We never know when life circumstances are going to throw a curveball at us or things are going to change,” Stevenson says, highlighting the organization’s commitment to supporting women at every stage of their lives.
Dress for Success offers a wide range of services designed to empower women and help them achieve their employment and financial goals. These include access to professional attire, personal and professional development programs, mentorship workshops, and career services such as resume writing and job interview preparation. For Shaloodegi, the organization has been a lifeline, providing her with the self-confidence and support she needed to rebuild her life. “They are very welcoming,” she says. “They gave me that self-confidence, that self-esteem.”
A Growing Need for Support
The demand for Dress for Success’s services has grown significantly in recent years. In the last three years alone, the number of clients seeking support has tripled, a trend that Stevenson attributes to several factors. “I think the cost of living [is a major factor],” she says. “We are looking at unprecedented housing costs and costs of living.” Additionally, recent global events, such as the war in Ukraine and the influx of newcomers from the Middle East, have brought many people to Canada, increasing the need for support services.
Empowerment Through Support
At the heart of Dress for Success’s mission is the belief that every woman deserves the opportunity to thrive. The organization’s programs are designed to break down the barriers that stand in the way of employment and financial independence. For Shaloodegi, the support she received went beyond practical assistance. “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 says. This sense of validation and empowerment is what makes Dress for Success so impactful, helping women like Shaloodegi believe in their potential and take control of their futures.
Giving Back: The ‘Your Hour, Her Power’ Campaign
As part of its efforts to continue providing these vital services, Dress for Success Kelowna is gearing up for one of its main fundraising campaigns of the year. Called “Your Hour, Her Power,” the campaign runs throughout the month of March and coincides with International Women’s Day. The campaign encourages individuals to donate one hour of their salary or any amount they are comfortable with to support women in their community. The funds raised will help women like Shaloodegi, who is one of approximately 300 women expected to seek out the organization’s services in 2025.
For those who wish to contribute, donations can be made through the Dress for Success website. Additionally, the organization accepts gently used business attire at its office located at 1272 St. Paul Street in Kelowna. Every contribution, whether financial or material, helps empower women to overcome their challenges and achieve their goals.
A Message of Hope and Empowerment
Ghazal Shaloodegi’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of community support. With the help of Dress for Success, she has been able to overcome the challenges of starting a new life in Canada and is now working towards a brighter future for herself and her family. Her journey serves as a reminder that no matter how difficult the path may seem, there is always hope for a better tomorrow.
For more information about Dress for Success Kelowna and how you can support their mission, visit their website or drop by their office. Together, we can help empower women like Ghazal Shaloodegi to achieve their full potential and create a more inclusive and supportive community for all.
