Fashion Drive for Change Had a Record-Breaking Night in Calgary
For an evening of innovation, cultural collaboration and reimagining the future of fashion education—the unparalleled donations were just a bonus.
This year’s Fashion Drive for Change event delivered all the glitz and glam a gala can offer with a healthy serving of record-breaking philanthropy.
On October 24, the fashion community came together in support of the Wood’s Homes Foundation. Held against the sleek backdrop of the Jaguar Land Rover Showroom in Calgary, some of Canada’s most stylish arrived dressed to the nines for an evening of giving. The result? An incredible $100,000 auction turnout from the evening’s most charitable attendees.
The event was presented by the Toronto Fashion Academy in partnership with the Fashion & Entertainment Council of Canada, alongside numerous supporting sponsors. “Fashion Drive for Change is more than an event—it’s a platform that elevates community, creativity, and compassion,” says Jason Cameron, CEO of Toronto Fashion Academy. “This event is about celebrating Canadian talent while supporting those who need it the most.”
The recipient foundation of this year’s donations, the Wood’s Homes Foundation, is Alberta’s trusted children’s mental health centre. The organization is on a mission to break cycles of trauma, building brighter futures through the support of over 20,000 children annually.
“I was deeply moved by the way fashion and philanthropy came together to shine a light on children’s mental health. Your support is more than stylish—it’s transformative,” expresses Bryan Goehringer, director of the Wood’s Homes Foundation. “Every donation helps us provide critical care, safe spaces, and hope to young people who are struggling.”
The event shed light on yet another important organization in the Canadian fashion ecosystem: Black Designers of Canada. Along with the Toronto Fashion Academy, the collective showcases the diversity among the industry’s designers, offering newcomers to the fashion scene an experience ripe with opportunities to push the needle forward in terms of possibilities.
A luxurious fashion show, brought to life by Black Designers of Canada founder George Sully, was one of the highlights of the evening. Featuring the work of Toronto-based Rhowan James Homme and Kaela Kay, their vibrant designs were a testament to the powerful storytelling fashion wields.
“On behalf of Black Designers of Canada, I am truly honored to help provide designers from our index to participate in the Fashion Drive for Change,” says Sully. “Collaborations like this not only celebrate the remarkable talent within our community but also demonstrate the power of fashion to create meaningful impact.”
Fashion Drive for Change marked an evening of sartorialism and philanthropy, made possible with the support of HP Canada / INTEL, Moët & Chandon, Dobel Tequila, Rubicon Exotic, Winston Smoke Club, Untitled YYC, MC College, Aldo Bando, Make Up For Ever, Pro Loft, Infinity Booth YYC, Marchon Eyewear, Milpit Homefood, Blowers & Grafton and Elevate Auctions.
Check out more memorable moments from the event below.
Photography by Fynn Badgley, courtesy of Toronto Fashion Academy
