Launch of Chch “Dress for Success” Affiliate

Thursday 21 August 2003

You know, one of my biggest regrets in life is that it took me so long to get a suit. From the day I did, I found out that life just looks so much better when you are well dressed.

I always remember it as the day my IQ doubled, I suddenly became much more charming and people were even pleased to have me in their shops. I had arrived.

There are of course some doubters to this day that I am ever going to make it as any sort of fashion plate. Never mind. My

point is that like it or not, shallow as it may seem this world of ours does have a strong dash of theatre to it.

Bearing in mind my own personal experience and the fact that eventually I got a day job that's also a night job I am absolutely behind the idea of Dress for Success. It happens to be, as they say today, reality based.

Earlier today I was asked to go along as guest greeter and provocateur to a forum on skills and employment issues in Christchurch and Canterbury. Part of the idea of the day was

to identify some of the barriers to getting a job at a time when jobs are heading toward an all-time high.

They have identified the skills barrier as a major hurdle for many. My pick is that it will be that much easier to jump that hurdle in the right outfit.

I note that Dress for Success says your most important goal is building the self-confidence of women looking for work. You do this by giving a hand up by supplying the clothes.

I also note to my pleasure that you are totally reliant on the generosity of the general public for clothes and money. There always seems to be a vocal segment of society willing to

comment on the lives of the unemployed. Now you have given them a chance to put their money and their clothes where their mouths are.

The rest of us of rather better goodwill will also be delighted to pitch in and help. I am delighted to be here and to lend you my support and best wishes.