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Kingston , ON

Ophelia (Owen) Clarke

I'm a young community leader from Rideau Heights in Kingston, Ontario, passionate about creating practical, community-driven solutions to reduce barriers and promote dignity, self-expression, and inclusion. Through my project, Open Closet, we are developing a personalized, portable clothing initiative for people who face barriers accessing clothing. Inspired by my lived experience, I believe meaningful change comes from listening to communities, building strong partnerships, and advancing social justice by reducing economic inequality and creating spaces everyone feels represented, respected, and empowered.

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Open Closet

Open Closet addresses clothing gaps—people lacking access to basic clothing in supportive environments such as schools, hospitals, shelters, nursing homes, and community care programs where basic needs are not always met. It is a "portable thrifting experience" that goes beyond simply filling clothing gaps, offering a more personal and dignified way for people to ‘shop’ for clothing rather than receiving random donated items that may not fit their needs or preferences.

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About this Project

Communities Served

My project will involve and/or impact the following communities:

    United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

    When it comes to community impact projects, the UN has created 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These are the Sustainable Development Goals associated with my project.

      How the project works

      We will partner with organizations to install 1–2 portable clothing racks that are regularly replenished as inventory decreases. Participants can complete a clothing preference form indicating their sizes and style preferences. These preferences will guide our thrifting and sourcing efforts, creating a more personalized, dignified, and accessible clothing experience.

      Project Impact

      Open Closet will improve clothing access by installing portable clothing racks within community organizations, bringing clothing directly to people who need it. Through personalized clothing preference forms, participants can share their sizes and style preferences, promoting dignity, choice, and self-expression. By reducing economic barriers and expanding access, the project aims to strengthen inclusion, confidence, and well-being.

      Project Mission

      Open Closet's mission is to improve clothing access by delivering a portable, personalized clothing experience that promotes dignity, choice, and self-expression for people facing barriers to traditional clothing services.

      Project Team

      Led by a founder and project collaborator, with support from volunteers and community partners

      • Ophelia Clarke - Founder and Project Lead Ana da Ponte Thomson - Project Collaborator