Makeshift boutique helps BU students build confidence

Brandon University turned a classroom into a temporary 'Confidence Closet' offering about 900 donated professional clothing items free to students; organizers say the event aims to help students prepare for interviews, co-op placements and early careers.

A classroom in Brandon University's Education Building was turned into a temporary boutique on Friday for the university's first Confidence Closet. Room 107 held about 900 pieces of donated professional clothing, some new and many gently used. The event gave students free access to outfits for interviews, co-op placements and other professional settings. Organizers say the idea grew from a smaller "teacher's closet" concept and expanded with help from staff, faculty and community donors. Key details: - The Confidence Closet took place in Room 107 of Brandon University's Education Building and opened Friday morning. - Organizers collected about 900 donated items from across campus and the wider community, including some new pieces still bearing tags. - Students browsed racks and tables and were encouraged to take multiple items so they could leave with complete outfits. - Volunteers included a BU alum who runs an online secondhand boutique and helped students select garments; the event also emphasized sustainability through clothing reuse. - Coordinators said the project began from a faculty member's "teacher's closet" idea and that they are considering making it an annual event. Summary: The initiative aimed to reduce a common barrier for students entering the workforce by providing free professional clothing and promoting reuse. Organizers reported strong turnout and positive reactions from students. They are discussing whether to hold the Confidence Closet annually.