This month, I am honoured to engage in a conversation with the remarkable, inspiring, and strong Georgie Harris, a digital creator and a passionate advocate for Mental Health awareness. Georgie is actively shedding light on the challenges of suicide loss and grief, normalising the importance of acknowledging one's feelings, and establishing a supportive environment for those coping with loss and personal struggles.
Q: What role do you believe education plays in fostering understanding and empathy towards mental health challenges?
Georgie: There is a new generation that really has put a massive amount of emphasis on just how important it is to have education surrounding this topic be available, known and seen. Aotearoa still has a long way to go for people to access one-on-one support, however more so now, than ever, we are seeing a rise in Mental Health and Wellbeing education. Whether that be through online seminars, mental health speakers in schools, workplace education and mental well-being first aid courses. Overall, this helps increase awareness, reduce stigma and provide knowledge on how to support those facing challenges.
I was only 23 years old when my father passed away due to his own battle with Mental Health. So to be in my early twenties and navigating such a vulnerable time with grief and the loss of a parent means that I now know and understand just how important it is to be kind to your mind and put your mental wellbeing first. I’m all for having mandatory Mental Health and Wellbeing support and education placed into schools and will continue to advocate for this.
Q: How can individuals be more supportive and understanding when someone confides in them about their mental health?
Georgie: A listening ear and a long chat with a trusted friend can often break down certain barriers for most people who have been struggling with their own Mental Wellbeing. Listening, validating and making it known to a friend that they can trust you is important. Check ins and catch ups, long walks, big hugs and telling them that you’re proud. I feel that us adults don’t hear that enough! You could also offer to take them to their GP and support them through the appointment to discuss what has been going on. Adulting can be tough, and understanding our Mental Health can be a long journey. Having great friends and family that you can lean on can make those big hurdles seem a bit more manageable.
Q: In your opinion, why is it crucial for society to openly discuss mental health and well-being?
Georgie: By talking and sharing we are breaking down so many generational barriers. It’s important at every stage of life to discuss and understand, from early childhood to adulthood. We are all human and there are so many ups and downs in life! Having people that you know you can connect with in a vulnerable way is important. We are seeing it being discussed more openly in recent years which is amazing to see whether that be through private conversations, or via the media.
Q: What's your go-to Josephine outfit when you want to feel confident and stylish?
Georgie: I love and adore my Pip shorts and Viv shirt! My Viv shirt has been such a staple throughout summer whether I’m going to the beach, out for brunch or to an evening BBQ. The Pip shorts are so beautifully made and comfortable, and to pair the two together is fabulous!
Q: If you could offer advice to inspire young women, what would it be?
Georgie: To back yourself and be confident about your decisions in life. Aim for the stars, moon, planets or anything that seems so far out of reach! If you have a dream, chase it, fight for it and work for it. The journey will be beautiful. Your 20’s are such a brilliant time to discover, create, invent, chop and change what you may love or not love so much. Your 20’s are the years to take those big, beautiful and bold adventures. Moving away from your hometown or going on those solo trips can really help you discover a different side to who you are as a person and your values. Try not to have too many regrets when you look back on certain things. You really were just making the best decision that you could at the time with the knowledge and feelings that you had in those moments! There is so much to look forward to as you grow and evolve, and you’re more special to those around you than you will ever know.
Q: What's your favourite quote or mantra that keeps you inspired and motivated
Georgie: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are” (Theodore Roosevelt). I saw this printed on a page of a magazine years ago and ripped it out. My dad found the page, framed it and hung it on the back of the bathroom door in our family home. It's actually still there! It's the perfect reminder, especially through times that may seem overwhelming.
Q: Can you share a specific moment when your fashion choices positively influenced your confidence or mindset?
Georgie: Now more than ever, I love finding quality pieces that I genuinely love, will last a long time in my wardrobe and make me feel confident within myself! When I find pieces that align with my personal style, I feel so much more confident. The Viv shirt is one piece in particular that has made me feel confident over summer. It's the perfect oversized shirt, with a pop of colour and you can pair it with the Pip shorts or even a beautiful linen skirt and over togs.
Q: In your opinion, how can fashion be a tool for breaking societal norms and promoting individuality?
Georgie: Breaking away from societal constraints when it comes to fashion is huge! I love seeing diversity around fashion and people sharing what makes them feel the most confident. A lot of people love to embrace the artsy side of fashion which is really cool to see. When I visited the 2023 Fashion Week, I was so blown away by how incredibly talented the up and coming designers are here in Aotearoa.
Q: Can you share any experiences where your fashion choices played a role in conveying a powerful message or advocating for a cause you believe in?
Georgie: Ooohh great question! I like to think that if young women do visit my social media and see what I wear, especially if it is a brand that I love and adore, they will get inspiration but feel equally as confident in who they are. I do actually take a lot of inspiration from others for their work and the showcasing of fashion around the world. I love to follow creators who give off a great image of confidence and happiness in their own skin, as well as giving others the confidence to do the same. Designers like yourself also portray such a powerful message of what it means to be conscious on the design front and to really have that customer satisfaction in mind! The designs of Josephine have given me more confidence than I ever could have imagined when I am wearing them.
Q: Can you tell us about any fashion items or accessories that hold sentimental value for you?
Georgie: I have always loved and adored thrifting. You can find some absolute gems! When I was in intermediate, mum and I found the most perfect old blue-wash Levi’s denim jacket for $10. It was my uniform of choice throughout school and into my early 20’s before I passed it onto my younger sister. It was really cool to see her love it just as much as I did. An iconic piece that is still in her wardrobe and holds so many amazing memories.
