Supported by Pasifika Futures (PFL), the programme has a strong focus on self-discovery and confidence-building, and is open to people of all ages and backgrounds. 

"Our team have been working with schools, assisting individuals back into the workplace, strengthening the relationships between mums and their children, and delivering capacity building workshops for the Pacific fashion community. 

As the only provider of this service nationwide, the demand for our programme from the Pacific community has grown rapidly over the past couple of years. Pasifika Futures has been instrumental in the running of our programmes and have allowed us to work with more of our community."  

Born and raised in Ōtara, Swann is no stranger to the creative industry, with over a decade of experience in fashion. She attributes her success to her faith and is motivated to make fashion more accessible. 

"With God's guidance and strong will-power I chose to keep at it, even when I wanted to give up, and it has worked in my favour.  

Dressed in Confidence was created as a way for me to give back to my community by educating our participants on fashion and the positive impacts fashion can have on people." 

Swann has set some big goals for the year, striving to work with 3,000 participants by the end of 2023. She is already on her way to achieving this with the set-up of her new home studio – a space she says will allow them to grow their reach and help others realise their self-worth.  

"The most rewarding part about this work is witnessing participants have their 'a-ha!' Moment! I want everybody to know they are capable of greatness."  

To celebrate International Women's Day 2023, Swann shares some encouraging words for our Pacific women. 

"You ARE enough – don't ever let anyone think you don't have what it takes!"

Follow the Dressed in Confidence journey here: https://dic.org.nz/

Images sourced from Dressed In Confidence / Nora Swann