Background

Runway for HOPE Ottawa (RFH ) is a not-for-profit event production that was founded in 2012 by Andre Rodrigues. The goal of the organization is to provide semi annual events where entrepreneurs can learn, network , create connections and showcase their brands and business in order to gain visibility and credibility. The founders of the organization wanted to engage the Ottawa community with the fashion industry and at the same time give back . RFH has raised over 16.000 thousand dollars to CHEO ( Children`s Hospital Of Eastern Ontario ) . Proceeds from this event will be directed to the CHEO Foundation to assist doctors, nurses and staffs at CHEO who handles over 500,000 patient/families .

Our Mission

Runway for Hope Ottawa is a non-profit organization. Our main goal is to promote local talent in Ottawa’s fashion industry while raising money for local organizations.

Our Vision

Runway for Hope Ottawa aims to increase the amount of public recognition for local fashion designers and local clothing. A future goal is to eventually have Ottawa recognized for its local fashion talent and to increase tourism to the nation’s capital for this very reason. Furthermore, the organization would like to see Ottawa’s fashion designers gain nation-wide recognition by eventually broadening the scope and providing them with exposure in fashion events outside of Ottawa. With increasing support for Runway for Hope Ottawa, Canada’s capital has the potential to gain as much recognition as Montreal and Toronto’s fashion industry.

Our team

Brittany Houston Leo
 Lead Backstage Coordinator

Brittany is now taking on the role of Backstage Manager after participating in several seasons as Lead hairstylist for Runway for Hope. Currently employed at Pierino Scarfo Salon as a Master Stylist. Specializing in creating custom hairstyles for clients using appropriate cutting and colouring techniques to best suit their needs. Program Coordinator/Creator and Hairstylist for Free Haircutting at St. Luke’s Table since April 2016. St. Luke’s Table is a drop in center for those in need of a supportive environment within the community. Previously a part of the Educational/Artistic Team for KMS California. A professional hair care product line owned by KAO Canada. Future goals are to focus on volunteer work to support the community and to collaborate creative projects with other artists.

Gabrielle Peterka
 Lead Hairstylist

Gabrielle Peterka is a local hairstylist from Ottawa, ON. With over a decade of supporting local charities, Gabrielle has always felt a strong passion for using her skills to benefit the community. After 5 seasons of being part of the backstage hair team, she is very excited to co-lead the team this spring’s edition of Runway for Hope.