Wearing Our Stories

In 2022, UiD hosted a fashion show featuring traditional clothing from different countries, creating a space to celebrate cultural heritage and share the diverse backgrounds of each individual, while strengthening unity through connection.

Below, Gemma who captured the audience’s attention in a beautiful hanbok, the traditional dress of her home country Korea, shares her personal experience of the UiD fashion show.

One step forward, carrying a quiet tremble.

Another step, letting go of tears.

Step by step, offering hope.

“When a fellow volunteer suggested that I take part in the fashion show wearing traditional Korean clothing,” I found myself calling Korea. I hadn’t brought any traditional clothes with me when I moved to the UK, so I arranged for them to be sent over. It felt unfamiliar, and I was slightly shy about showing a different side of myself. But more than that, I wanted to support the volunteers who had been working so hard to make the show happen.

On the day of the event, the room was full of energy. Some people were setting up the stage, others were helping with makeup, generously sharing what they had, while everyone moved quickly to get things ready. Many of us models felt a little awkward, but the volunteers worked with calm focus. Little by little, a beautiful stage came together.

Wearing makeup we weren’t used to, we waited with a mix of nerves and excitement, knowing we would soon walk in front of a full audience. After being guided through the order and movements, we sat together, waiting for the signal to begin. As the rush settled, the room grew quiet. In that stillness, we encouraged one another with small, gentle words.

When the show began, the stage came alive. It was full of colour and energy, lifted further by the cheers and applause of the audience. Some walked with confidence, showing their own style, while others moved quickly, still adjusting to the moment. But every step was met with warmth. We celebrated not only the beauty of each culture, but the individuality of every person. Calls for encores echoed, and each walk was met with encouragement.

This was not a show shaped by a single designer’s vision. Instead, it was a celebration of difference. Each person wore what best represented them, and each culture brought its own unique expression. Even the applause felt personal. It was a space where people, so different from one another, could freely show their own beauty. And in that difference, we found unity, encouraging one another, standing together.

I had joined at first simply to help. But in the process, I found myself showing a side of me I don’t often share. Seeing others do the same brought a quiet sense of connection. More than anything, it reminded me how different we all are and how powerful it is when those differences come together in one space, celebrating and uplifting one another.

Just as I found the courage to walk, even with uncertain steps, supported by the applause around me, I realised that UiD has become something like a showroom in our lives — a space where we are seen and valued for who we are

Just as this space has encouraged each of us to step forward, the fashion show itself was made possible through the quiet dedication of many people behind the scenes. The idea for the event came from Tolulope Olaleye, whose vision and encouragement brought people together to take part, while also helping to shape the show with care and creativity. Volunteers generously gave their time, preparing outfits, supporting one another, and creating a space where everyone felt able to take part. Saba, who was a trustee at the time, kindly captured photographs of each model, offering her time and expertise so that these moments could be remembered.

There was no formal sponsorship for the event; instead, it was carried by the generosity, time, and willingness of those involved. The wider Drop-In space, which made gatherings like this possible, continues to be supported through the ongoing contributions of funders and donors who help provide food, space, and support for the community.

In many ways, this reflects the heart of UiD not built on a single effort, but on many hands coming together, each offering what they have, to create something meaningful for others.