Items have been donated and collected over recent weeks to create a pop-up gender affirming shopping experience at the Nanaimo Unitarian Church on Townsite Rd. this Saturday. (submitted photo/Ash Horner)

By Alex Rawnsley

all inclusive

‘Be part of a community:’ gender-affirming shopping experience created in Nanaimo

Nov 30, 2024 | 6:05 AM

NANAIMO — Offering a safe, inclusive space for those on their gender journey find new fashion is behind a new event being hosted Saturday.

The Unitarian Church at 595 Townsite Rd. in Nanaimo will host “Transform Your Closet” on Saturday, Nov. 30 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., a free pop-up clothing shop for trans, non-binary or queer people looking to adjust, update or completely change their wardrobe.

Co-organizer Ash Horner told NanaimoNewsNOW the event is centred around a safe, welcoming environment.

“If someone’s nervous and the thing that is stopping them from coming to something like this or an event, is they don’t know anyone or maybe nervous to come by themselves, please reach out…let us know and we’re happy to meet people and hook them up with a volunteer that can walk around with them, help people feel comfortable and safe coming.”

Suits, dresses, other clothing, accessories and shoes have all been donated from community or local businesses and will be on offer free of charge.

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Some companies will be in attendance not only providing products, but also offering tailoring of clothes on site for a donation.

Horner said they’ll even have a makeup artist doing demonstrations and tutorials for new looks.

The idea is to offer a barrier-free avenue to affirming ones gender identity, whatever it is for the individual.

“I’ve always been on a gender journey I guess, I just never really knew it. About a year ago, I really started looking at ti on every level: what it meant to me, what it meant on a biological level, I just really did a deep dive. One of my dear friends really inspired me, she said this event could be something that we do for not only me, but the community.”

It’s hoped if successful, the event can be something which happens multiple times a year.

Co-organizer Erica Bakewell added the welcoming environment for all, regardless of their gender identity or background, is vital.

“We’re trying to give accessibility in a way that’s safe, just come, be part of a community, come be in this building and surrounded by people who care about your journey. Let’s work together to find new pieces or outfits or let’s do your makeup in a way that makes you feel see in a way that you want to be seen.”

More details can be found here.

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