5 ways to change a life with a pair of heels: Hawaiʻi wāhine

Yahoo

18-04-2025

HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Hawai'i State Legislature is once again proving that meaningful change can start with a single gesture, like donating a blazer or a handbag.
On Tuesday, April 15, state lawmakers delivered more than 90 bags of professional clothing to the YWCA O'ahu's Dress for Success Honolulu program.
The donation drive collected dresses, blazers, shoes, accessories, handbags and new undergarments. These were all meant to help women who are reentering the workforce after facing serious life challenges like poverty, incarceration or homelessness.
The effort is part of an annual tradition organized by State Representative Gregg Takayama (House District 34 – Pearl City, Waiau, Pacific Palisades) and State Senator Joy A. San Buenaventura (Senate District 2 – Puna).
Over the years, this drive has become more than just a clothing collection. It's become a symbol of community solidarity and a practical way to help women reclaim their independence.
'Dress for Success has transformed the lives of countless women by helping them to build confidence and prepare for new job opportunities,' said Rep. Takayama. 'Sometimes, all it takes is one outfit to help someone land a job and take that first step toward independence. We are grateful for the generosity and support shown by lawmakers, staff, and the community for this important cause.'
While clothing is the most visible part of the Dress for Success Honolulu program, it's far from the whole story. The YWCA O'ahu provides workforce readiness training, mentoring and confidence-building workshops to help women prepare for employment and long-term career growth.
Many of the women served by the program are navigating complex transitions. They have often left behind situations that may have included domestic violence, homelessness or incarceration. Dress for Success helps them enter interviews not just looking ready but feeling ready.
'The YWCA's Dress for Success initiative goes beyond just professional attire—it represents dignity, opportunity, and empowerment,' said Sen. San Buenaventura. 'When we invest in women, we invest in stronger families, stronger communities, and a stronger future.'
What makes the clothing drive so powerful is how it brings together people from all parts of the community. Lawmakers and their staff, state and city employees and residents from across the island donated high-quality, work-appropriate items.This year's collection filled more than ninety bags and demonstrated how many people care about helping women in need take the next step in life.
The donated items go directly to women preparing for interviews, starting new jobs or returning to the workforce after long absences. It's a simple act of kindness that can completely change someone's life.
Founded in 1900, the YWCA O'ahu is the oldest and largest women's membership organization in the state. It's a charter member of the national YWCA USA, which includes more than 300 local organizations nationwide.
For more than a century, the YWCA has helped women of all backgrounds grow into leaders and community changemakers.
With three centers — Fernhurst, Kokokahi and Laniākea — YWCA O'ahu offers a wide range of programs. These include transitional housing for women leaving incarceration, entrepreneurship training and community building programs for women and girls.
When a woman gets the tools she needs to succeed, the impact spreads far beyond her own life. Women who are financially stable and emotionally confident are more likely to support their families, give back to their communities, and serve as role models for others.
That's why economic advancement is a core focus of the YWCA's mission. Programs like Dress for Success, the Patsy T. Mink Center for Business & Leadership and the MBDA Enterprising Women Business Center help women gain financial independence and pursue long-term career goals.
These efforts are backed by national partners like the Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Commerce. They provide local women with access to federal support, leadership training and even funding opportunities for starting or growing businesses.
The impact of programs like Dress for Success depends on people; people who are willing to donate, volunteer or spread the word.
If you or someone you know is looking for employment and needs support, then you can email [e-mail] to be connected with Dress for Success Honolulu.
If you want to donate professional attire, the YWCA accepts gently used and new items throughout the year. You can click here to learn .
Whether it's one pair of shoes or one hour of mentorship, small efforts can help build a future where all women have a chance to thrive.
The success of the Dress for Success drive speaks to a bigger message: dignity, justice, and opportunity should be available to everyone, regardless of their past. The Hawai'i State Legislature's support is not just a one-day event. It's part of an ongoing effort to stand up for social justice, support families and strengthen communities.
By uplifting women who are rebuilding their lives, Hawai'i lawmakers and community members are helping to create a future rooted in compassion, empowerment and equality.
'I'm proud to support the incredible work being done so that every woman has the tools, confidence, and support she needs to thrive in the workforce,' said Sen. San Buenaventura.
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It's about opening doors one suit, one conversation or one vote at a time. The message is clear: when Hawai'i invests in women, the whole state rises.
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