A fashion show to raise money for period poverty in Sheffield and “showcase passion and talent” will be held this Sunday.
The show, in collaboration with the University of Sheffield’s Fashion Society and Irise International, aims to reach a total of £500. A GoFundMe page has already raised £190.
It was the brainchild of a group of female undergraduate journalism students, whose campaign No Period Left Behind forms part of their Your Sheffield website.
Campaign manager Keren Ossou, 20, said the idea had come from personal experience.
“When I was in school there were no period products available in the bathroom, or really any effects to tackle period poverty.
“After doing research , we found that period poverty was quite a big issue in Sheffield especially since Covid and with the cost of living crisis that we are currently having. We wanted to do something to make a difference.”
She added that only half of Sheffield schools take part in the government’s scheme for free period products.
Eight members of the university’s Fashion Society will be modelling a selection of clothes, some of which are handmade.
Its president, Olivia Booth, also 20, said they were grateful for the opportunity to be involved.
“What interested us in joining the fundraiser was, of course, the charity aspect. Period poverty is obviously a huge issue.
“On top of that, we really wanted to be able to showcase everyone’s passions and talents. It allowed our members to create and model for a good cause.”
She hoped the idea of a fashion show will interest more people, specifically students, to donate.
Irise International is an award-winning charity based in Sheffield.
It has led and been involved in a number of initiatives to improve period poverty, specifically in Sheffield.
Emily Wilson, CEO of Irise International, said: “Period poverty and shame are holding people back around the world. We work with young people in the UK and East Africa to end the stigma and realise period equality for all.”
Last month, Sheffield City Council discussed “Committing the Council to Tackling the Stigma of Menopause and Period Poverty” at a council meeting.
It agreed that “period poverty is a serious issue for women in the city.”
The fashion show and fundraising event will take place at the Nelson Mandela auditorium in the Students’ Union, this Sunday at 3pm. Door open at 2.45pm.
Tickets to the fashion show are available here or you can donate via GoFundMe.
