One member of The Journal’s editorial board is an active member of the VCFS charity. They were not involved in the editorial process with respect to this story.
In a captivating blend of creativity and philanthropy, the Vogue Charity Fashion Show (VCFS) is set to take centre stage once again this year at the Grand Theatre.
Next month between March 7 to 9, the student-run fashion show will seamlessly blend fashion, dance, music, and charity into one showcase.
This year’s show, titled “Days of Being,” promises to be a visual and emotional journey through the different phases of life, from childhood to young adulthood. All proceeds raised from the show will be donated to Extend-A-Family Kingston (EAFK).
Since its inception in 1997, VCFS has raised close to $800,000 for local charities across the Kingston community. This year’s charity, EAFK, provides individuals with disabilities opportunities to develop friendships and integrate into the community. Through various programs, EAFK focuses on fostering social connections, building life skills, and promoting inclusivity.
VCFS’s partnership with EAFK goes beyond monetary , with cast and crew actively engaging in workshops, events, and volunteer opportunities.
“They’re the most welcoming people you will ever meet, they will always be greeting you with the biggest smiles and cheers,” VCFS Co-President Katarina Bojic, ArtSci ’25, said in an interview with The Journal.
As of now, over 50 VCFS club have visited EAFK to participate in various activities. Earlier this month, VCFS volunteered at EAFK to interact with individuals in the community and aid in the harvesting and distribution of hydroponically-grown greens.
For many , involvement in VCFS represents more than a ion for fashion and philanthropy. It’s an opportunity to step outside their comfort zones, develop leadership skills, and make meaningful contributions to the community.
Co-President Katie Goddard, HealthSci ’24, started as a musician in her second year and found herself drawn to VCFS for its unique blend of artistic expression and social impact. Being in a science program, Goddard wanted to find somewhere at Queen’s to keep her creativity going and express her ion for music.
With almost 180 both on stage and behind the scenes, VCFS has become a vibrant hub for creativity and collaboration. From designers to choreographers, makeup artists to models, each member plays a vital role in bringing the show to life.
The show consists of seven scenes, depicting the different phases of one’s life from childhood to adulthood.
“This year [the Creative Directors] were very inspired by wanting to tell a narrative story,” Bojic said. “It can go pretty abstract so they kind of wanted to get something more linear. I think it helps the audience resonate a little bit more directly to it.”
Goddard’s favourite scene, “First Love Fever,” captures the essence of young love and the transformative power it holds.
“It’s about that time in your life around, maybe your later adolescence, when you find whether it’s like platonic or romantic love, but someone that’s really important to you and changes the way you view the world,” she said.
Beyond the show, both co-presidents hope audience will carry with them a sense of connection and inspiration. When the curtains close, they hope audience look around and know they’re not alone in their experiences.
“We kind of all experience life in a very similar way, even though we’re all very different people and we all you know, face some of the same challenges and some of the same celebrations in life and that’s something that connects all of us,” Goddard said.
Bojic and Goddard hope the impact of VCFS extends far beyond the walls of the Grand Theatre. They hope students and audience leave inspired to volunteer within the Kingston community.
In-person and livestream tickets for the fashion show are available now and can be found on VCFS’s website. Those who are unable to attend can also donate directly to Extend-A-Family through VCFS’s fundraiser.
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