A unique fashion show will help celebrate six decades of the Big Island Substance Abuse Council and the dedicated support and services it has given to Hawaii Island individuals and families on the road to recovery from drug or alcohol abuse.
For 60 years, BISAC, has been at the forefront of the fight against substance abuse and addiction through its comprehensive treatment programs, innovative resources and compassionate care.
To commemorate this milestone, BISAC will host the “Runway to Resilience Fashion Show,” at the Hilo Palace Theater on Saturday, featuring designs by Chief Executive Officer Dr. Hannah Preston-Pita and modeling by individuals in active substance recovery.
Last month, the novice models tried on their custom-designed outfits and practiced their runway walks for the first time.
“Before we started the model workshop, we opened up about how this is all about celebrating who they are,” Preston-Pita said. “When designing the clothes, I kept their journey in mind and wanted to showcase their individual resilience and recovery.”
While the models were initially nervous, fashion show producer Raynn Dangaran coached them through runway walks and saw their anxiety dissipate quickly and turn into inner confidence unique to each person.
“I love introducing the world of modeling to people who may not have had the opportunity to model before. It’s not just about showcasing clothing, it’s about getting on stage and feeling confident in yourself,” Dangaran said. “In a couple hours, I got to see them transition from feeling nervous to breaking down walls to find that inner confidence.”
Although it was his first time modeling on stage, Tyler Cooper looked natural practicing his runway walk with his partner, Bosilka “Miracle” Nash, as they both sported big smiles.
“This is super exciting, actually. I usually take selfies, I’ve never done something for an audience before,” Cooper said. “When the countdown to walking starts — that is when the anxiety and adrenaline hits. Once you start, everything fades, and it is a super fun time.”
According to Preston-Pita, she wanted the models to be people in recovery from substance abuse to show others that seeking addiction treatment for yourself or loved ones can be meaningful, positive and life-saving.
“Doing this while being with others in recovery has been a really positive experience for me and my journey. I’ve been struggling for years, but am now finally on the right track,” Cooper said. “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to showcase what recovery can really look like.”
While the fashion show is the main event, the festivities will feature live performances from Puna Taiko, Halau Kaleo A Keahilapalapa, Ho‘e Feti‘i and Oahu-based entertainer Myshaan. There also will be food concessions and a silent auction, with the funds raised going toward BISAC and its services.
“I think it’s a momentous thing for any organization to sustain 60 years, and we’re excited about this event and everything to come after,” Preston-Pita said. “While (BISAC) began well before my time, we still have the same mission that was set before us and are working toward that every day.”
BISAC was created in 1964 to battle alcoholism on Hawaii Island and has since become a multimillion dollar nonprofit that has expanded its reach throughout the state while aligning its services to the ever-changing behavioral health field.
“Our journey over the past six decades has been deeply impactful and profoundly meaningful. We have seen countless lives transformed through the power of recovery and the unwavering support we provide,” Preston-Pita said in a press release.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our employees, board members and volunteers, past and present, who have made our mission possible. Your dedication and compassion are the bedrock of BISAC, and together, we are making a difference, one life at a time.”
Those interested in celebrating BISAC’s 60 years of resilience, recovery and hope can attend the “Runway to Resilience Fashion Show” at 6 p.m. this Saturday at the Palace Theater. Tickets are available online at hilopalace.com.
Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
