Fashion show to support local women’s refuge charity

A special fashion show is coming to Cork city this weekend, bringing together style, empowerment, and a powerful personal message.

Cork Runway 2026 will take place at Cyprus Avenue this coming Sunday from 6pm. The event is being organised by Lydia O’Keeffe, a Miss Universe Ireland 2026 finalist who is representing her home county as the ‘Lady of Cork’ for Lady of Ireland 2026.

For Lydia, this is much more than a standard fashion show. The event is a fundraiser for Cuanlee Women and Children’s Refuge, a local charity that holds a deeply personal meaning for her. Lydia spent two years living at the refuge having experienced homelessness from before her daughter was born until she was one year old. Now, she is using her platform to speak out about her experiences, break the stigma, and help other families facing similar hardships.

Co-hosted by The Model Podcast, the evening will feature ten talented models from pageant and modelling backgrounds. Guests can look forward to a glamorous red carpet arrival, a dedicated media section, and a fun runway competition judged by experienced pageant veterans.

Lydia said: “This is much more than a fashion show for me. It is an opportunity to use my platform and my own experience of homelessness and recovery to give back to a refuge that supported me during an incredibly difficult chapter of my life, while celebrating the strength, resilience, and confidence of women.”

Any support is hugely appreciated to help Cuanlee continue their essential work for women and children in the region. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast or simply want to support a fantastic local cause, Cyprus Avenue is the place to be this Sunday.