Birmingham's "fairy godmother" making sure everyone can go to the prom
Stefanie Lakin runs Madrina, which helps disadvantaged girls and boys still go to prom with the perfect outfit.
Last updated 21st May 2024
Birmingham's very own "fairy godmother" is back again to make sure that everyone can go to the prom.
Madrina, ran by Solihull teacher Stefanie Lakin, helps students that can't afford to buy a dress or a suit for the end of year event.
Stefanie, now in her second year of doing this, began when she found out that students at her own school weren't going to prom because of the cost.
Upset by what she'd heard, Stefanie then swung into action and put out a call for donations of prom dresses and was overwhelmed by the response.
Since then, Stefanie launched Madrina UK and has been travelling from school to school in the city to make sure no one gets left out of their prom.
Her choice of dresses and suits have grown, with companies in America donating outfits for her to offer to students.
Stefanie said: "The response was huge, there were so many different schools that were saying they had students that needed help and support and it just went from there really.
"We have a range of emotions, the squeals of delight when they find a dress they love, the boys just staring at themselves in the suits. When they find that outfit, it's just amazing to see.
"Prom's should be inclusive for everyone, there should be no barrier about getting an outfit.
"The ball should be accessible for everyone and not just a few."
You can find out more here.