Recently, I had the chance to volunteer my time with Meta Centre in Toronto, Vaughan, and Scarborough for three days, and it turned into one of those experiences that will stay with me for the rest of my life and bring a smile to my face every time I think about it.

The idea was to create something special for women with disabilities - and not just to snap some photos, but to create a full photography experience that would help them feel beautiful, cared for, and celebrated. And what better way to do it than around International Women's Day!

I posted in my Facebook Group, Collab in Toronto, seeking makeup artists who would love to be part of this beautiful event and volunteer their time and talent to help the ladies get ready. Below, I tagged their Instagram accounts because they were such a lovely part of this. Their work, energy, professionalism, and kindness helped make the whole experience feel even more special.

Ariel: their.aestheti

Lori: __makeupbylori 

For this special event, I created a setup with a floral swing, made a peach-and-pink colour bouquet, and brought one of my photography robes and a boho dress for the portraits. Meta staff also created other floral elements like the crowns, headpieces, and beautiful bouquets. We wanted it to feel soft and a little magical - something different from everyday life. Something that would make the women feel absolutely beautiful, dressed up and seen.

This beautiful initiative was designed by Elisa Fronczak, Community Inclusion and Development Lead at Meta Centre, and I really want to mention her because this whole experience was clearly built with so much heart. You could feel that the goal was to create a moment that really felt empowering and joyful.

A big thank you also goes to the Meta Centre staff, who were amazing throughout all three days. They helped with hair and makeup, supported the women during the sessions, and were just so present and helpful the whole time. It really felt like everyone came together to make the ladies feel special.

What I loved most about this whole experience was seeing the reactions. Some women seemed a little shy at first, and then little by little, they opened up. There were big smiles, laughs, and those quiet moments where you could tell someone was really feeling good about themselves.

Below, you can see the portraits we created - all full of confidence and joy.

Photography can be beautiful on its own, but sometimes it becomes something more. Sometimes it gives someone a chance to see themselves differently, even just for a moment. And that matters.

I’m really grateful I got to be part of this.