Perspective: Youth Volunteer (Emma)

Getting to volunteer with the Rotaract Princess Project has honestly been such a cool experience. I’ve gotten to model in the fashion show and make reels for social media with my sister and friends, but I think my favourite part has been getting to experience everything the project stands for.

The fashion show especially felt like girlhood at its finest. A bunch of us who were basically strangers came together, tried on beautiful dresses, hyped each other up, helped each other get ready, and made sure everyone felt confident before going out to model. There was something so sweet about everyone wanting each other to feel beautiful, even though a lot of us had just met.

I also really love the sustainability side of the Princess Project. Feeling pretty and getting excited about a special event shouldn’t depend on how much money you can spend on a dress. Plus, so many of these dresses are way too pretty to be worn once, sit in the back of a closet, or eventually end up in a landfill. Giving them a second life means someone else gets to feel just as special in them while also keeping perfectly good clothing from going to waste.

Overall, I love that the Princess Project brings together so many things I care about—girlhood, confidence, community, and sustainability. I’m really grateful that I’ve gotten to be a part of it with my sister and friends, while also meeting so many amazing girls along the way.