Canadian Fashion Supports Crohn’s & Colitis Canada in Fall Fashion Show

For the first time, real people affected by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis will be walking the runway wearing Canadian designs, with their ostomy bag proudly on display, in the 13th Edition of International Fashion Encounter. Taking place on September 22 at the Mercedes-Benz Downtown Toronto location, the fashion show will be revealed to Canadians in a show-stopping display of design influenced by Canada’s multiculturalism. The event supports charitable partner Crohn’s and Colitis Canada and will showcase a mix of Canadian and international design talent who will unveil new Spring/Summer, Fall/Winter and Couture collections on the runway. Canadian actress Chantelle Leonardo-Fernandes, wife of Canadian singer Shawn Desman, will be one of the models in the show. We chatted with Chantelle to learn more. —Noa Nichol

Hi Chantelle! Please tell us a bit about yourself to start.

My name is Chantelle Leonardo, 42-year-old wife and a mom of 3. I was a professional dancer from the early age of 15 and can be seen in movies such as Hairspray, Honey, Shall We Dance, Cheetah Girls and many more. For 18 years I operated and owned a dance studio where I taught recreational and competitive dance. At the age of 35, I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis and struggled for many years. At the age of 41, I had to undergo emergency Ileostomy surgery and now live my day-to-day life with an ostomy bag. I mentally struggled with the changes in my body and thought I would never love myself again. I now am a confident woman sharing my story and being a positive advocate to young girls, women and the Crohn’s/Colitis community.

This fall, in Toronto, you’ll be walking the runway in the 13th Edition of International Fashion Encounter! Tell us why you are participating in this show, and what the cause behind it is.

I was honored to participate in this fashion show because this is all so new to me, and I think it’s important to show the world that this disease doesn’t define me/us.

For those who don’t know, what is Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis? How do these conditions impact Canadians, like yourself?

UC is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, and it attacks your large intestine. This disease impacts your day-to-day life, and no one would ever know. My quality of life got so bad I couldn’t take my kids to the park or go for a walk around the block.

What does Canadian fashion mean to you?

Canadian Fashion means a lot to me because I love to support talented brands/companies that are local.

What’s your personal style mantra?

My personal style mantra is “Confidence is the best form of fashion.”

Who will this show benefit?

Crohn’s and Colitis Canada will benefit from this show, and I’m so happy to be a part of it.

internationalfashionencounter.com