A former Cork Rose is spearheading a major event to raise funds for a small Irish charity working in Kenya.
Jennifer Byrne, the 2022 Cork Rose, who is also studying a PHD in International Development, is organising a ‘Bring a Dress, Buy a Dress’ in what’s shaping up to be a glitzy and glamorous occasion.
A long-time lover of gently used clothes, Jennifer says they formed a huge part of her Rose of Tralee wardrobe, and she is urging people to think ‘second hand’ in a bid to help the circular economy and aid sustainability as well as raising much needed funds for Brighter Communities Worldwide.
She says
“I made a conscious effort to include some second-hand pieces in my Rose Wardrobe, and these ultimately became some of my favourite outfits. I sourced occasion dresses and ball gowns from local charity shops, and borrowed what I could from friends. During the Rose of Tralee Festival, many of us also swapped outfits and shared accessories, creating our own little sustainable community”.
“Now, 2 years on from my Rose of Tralee experience, I get to marry these two passions in my role with Brighter Communities Worldwide, an Irish charity working in partnership with communities in Kenya. As a fundraiser for our international development work, we are hosting a ‘Bring a Dress, Buy a Dress’ event on the 28th of September at the Sirius Arts Centre in Cobh, where we are asking people to donate their pre-loved ball gowns, and pick up something nearly-new. By doing this, we are not only saving beautiful dresses from landfill, but also supporting a really good cause”.
As a passionate advocate for sustainable development and community empowerment, Jennifer has combined her academic pursuits with her commitment to making a positive impact. Currently pursuing her PhD in International Development, she has focused her research on innovative solutions to global challenges, particularly in underprivileged communities.
“During my time as the Cork Rose, I also spoke a lot about my other passion – international development. Having studied International Development and Food Policy at UCC, and subsequently doing my PhD in the same area, I shared stories of my work in various charities throughout Ireland and abroad, hoping to inspire others into the same area.
“Brighter Communities World is a superb charity, it works in partnership with local communities in Kenya ,creating sustainable and lasting change through education, health, and economic empowerment initiatives. Its unique model of working has paid dividends, making real improvements to the quality of life that people can enjoy”.
“I have always loved dressing up, ever since I was a little girl. Even now, any chance I have to don a ball gown, I will grab with both hands. I’m so looking forward to our event on the 28th September and people will have the opportunity to show off their fabulous frocks at our Kenya Ball on the 30th November, one of the highlights of the Cork social calendar”.
“I am thrilled to combine my passion for fashion, sustainability, and international development in this event,” said Jennifer. “The Buy a Dress, Bring a Dress is not just about finding a beautiful dress; it’s about coming together as a community to support a cause that can make a real difference in people’s lives.”
