About Us

Our Mission and Vision

Our Mission: To provide YYC youth and young adults with free, accessible clothing and essentials through an online thrift store that centres dignity, choice, and respect. We believe that everyone deserves access to basic necessities without judgement or financial barriers, and that having the freedom to choose what you wear can be a powerful step toward confidence and stability. Our Vision: A community where no young person goes without essential items, and where support systems are built on compassion, inclusion, and empowerment. Through this platform, we aim to reduce barriers to access while fostering a sense of belonging and self-worth for youth navigating housing insecurity.

Our Story

Empowered Essentials is a student-led capstone project in the Child Studies program at Mount Royal University, developed in response to gaps identified through a community needs assessment in Calgary. The initiative focuses on increasing access to basic needs through trauma-informed supports that prioritize respect, privacy, and choice. Empowered Essentials includes the creation of thoughtfully assembled hygiene kits, as well as an online platform that allows youth to select complete outfits at no cost through a shopping style experience. Together, these components aim to reduce barriers to access while supporting the well-being and autonomy of youth and families.

Meet the Team

The people behind the mission.

Attashia Gauthier

Hey, I am a student at Mount Royal University here in Calgary, where I am completing my last year of Child Studies. My focus is Child and Youth Care Counselling, which I use to support young people grow and thrive through a trauma-informed lens. Helping increase access to supports for Calgary youth is a passion that has led me to this project.

Zara Altimimi

Hi, I'm a Bachelor of Child Studies student specializing in Early Learning and Child Care. I'm passionate about building inclusive, meaningful environments where every child/youth feels supported, seen, and capable, being able to support their development by valuing relationship-building and integrity.

Rachelle Broer

Hi! I am a student majoring in Child and Youth Care Counselling. I am passionate about creating safe, inclusive spaces where individuals can feel heard, valued, and empowered while using a trauma-informed approach that centres dignity and choice.

Alexis Stewart

I’m a fourth-year Mount Royal University student in a Bachelor of Child Studies, majoring in Child and Youth Care Counselling. I’m passionate about working alongside youth and young families and am committed to creating supportive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based programs that help young people thrive.