The Friendship Circle recently held an inclusive fashion show.
The Friendship Circle hosted its powerful ‘SEE ME. OWN IT. Diversity on the Runway’ fashion show, where members modelled side-by-side with their volunteer buddies, celebrating the belief that fashion belongs to everyone.
Across two evenings, more than 400 guests packed the Hilton Suite. Clothing sponsors N. Brown and Chums generously provided the outfits worn on the runway. Other sponsors included Manchester Drinks, Online Home Shop, Swizzels, The Pilot Group, and Quest – which also supplied everyone with a goody bag.
The show opened with an energetic performance by the Friendship Circle drummers. This was followed by an inspiring address by Hannah Cohen, who shared her journey through personal loss, visual impairment, and ultimately, empowerment, captivating the audience with her resilience.
Guests were also treated to a contemporary dance by Avi Pash and a heartfelt rendition of ‘That’s What Friends Are For’ sung by Elliot Sayers, with the audience joining in for the chorus.
Throughout both evenings, Friendship Circle member Hannah Mendell served as a charismatic MC guiding the audience through a programme filled with emotion and celebration. Alayne Levy delivered a moving speech about her daughter, Hannah, and the profound impact The Friendship Circle has had on her life: “When I reflect on everything that the FC does for Hannah, there’s one thing that as a mother I’ll forever be grateful for… the FC enables Hannah to be Hannah.”
Guests rose to their feet as models lit up the runway with courage and confidence. The atmosphere was electric as the community came together to celebrate individuality and inclusion. The event raised an incredible £55,000, directly supporting The Friendship Circle’s mission to build an inclusive community, one friend at a time.
