Creative Connections Charity Fashion Show: Inclusion In Motion
Hi, my name is Cathy and I'm a fashion designer
I graduated from university just after the pandemic, a time when the world was still reeling and opportunities felt scarce. During my time as a mature student, I never had the support or guidance I needed to transition into the fashion industry. This lack of direction, combined with the challenges of being neurodivergent, made it difficult to figure out what was next.
My journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced struggles with substance misuse in my distant past, which led to me contracting Hepatitis C, a condition I lived with for 16 years before undergoing successful treatment in 2017. Shortly after, I experienced a serious diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) episode and was close to death. I have also suffered from mental health issues, especially after finishing university. These experiences have shaped who I am today, giving me a deep understanding of resilience and the importance of inspiring and helping others.
Addiction is something that touches so many lives we all know someone who has faced its challenges. That’s why this show is raising funds for charities close to my heart, including Everton in the Community and Break Free. These organizations work tirelessly in our community to support mental health and those overcoming substance misuse.
But this project isn’t just about charity; it’s about creating opportunities. Creative Connections was born out of my desire to help local designers, models, photographers, small businesses, and other creatives who, like me, lacked resources and connections. Our fashion show will feature diverse models, representing all walks of life, including those with visible and hidden disabilities, and models in recovery because I believe in celebrating individuality and breaking industry norms.
This show is more than just a runway it’s a platform to highlight incredible talent, support small businesses, and build a community where creativity thrives. With your support, we can make this dream a reality, raise vital funds for important causes, and prove that, together, we can rise by uplifting others. To find out more check out our website here. Creative Connections Website
I started Creative Connections to create opportunities for myself and other creatives, offering a platform to network, collaborate, and produce amazing content. Over time, this space has grown into an incredible community of models, makeup artists, and photographers who share my vision. Based in Liverpool, I organize and run these events monthly at my own expense, providing them free of charge because I believe in empowering and uplifting creative talent. My ultimate goal is to establish a not-for-profit CIC and secure a permanent space where our community can thrive, helping and teaching people from marginalized backgrounds while continuing to support and inspire creatives.
The funds we are raising will go towards covering the costs of the event at the Devonshire House Hotel this September. The venue is spacious, and I intend to fill it! All proceeds from ticket sales, raffles, silent auction including any leftover funds from this crowdfunding campaign will go directly to the charities once the event costs are covered.
Why we Need Your Help
To make this event a reality, we need your support for essential costs for the venue, lighting, decorations, promotional materials, entertainment, equipment such as radio hire, microphone, DJ, staff, Commentator, etc
Every donation however small counts!! Donors will receive:
£25+ A personal thank you
£50+ A shout out on social media
£100+ Name featured on event programme
£500+ Name featured on all promotional materials including website
Please donate today to help us create an unforgettable event for a worthy cause.
Thank You For Your Support!!
If you would like to get involved in the event feel free to reach out to us via our Creative Connections Website