Sherine is a widow with a 6-year-old son, Jamal. Originally from a Suriname-based family of Indian descent, Sherine moved to the northern Netherlands three years ago, and this is her final year of study to become an Optician.

When her husband suddenly passed away in 2017 at the age of 46, her entire world was turned upside down. They had been living in Suriname and decided to move back to the Netherlands, but her entire plan - which included securing a house, finding employment, and arranging daycare - fell apart. She found herself in survival mode.

“I took the time to grieve and accept my new life. Previously, I had worked in fashion and cosmetics as a manager in large department stores, but I desired a new future. That’s why I made the decision to return to school to become an optician. Currently, I am working five days a week and dedicating additional time to my studies,” says Sherine.

When she attended her first job interview two years ago, she realized that her wardrobe was not suitable. “At Dress for Success, they treated me kindly and made me feel like a princess. They instilled confidence in me. My message is that life is not always what you expect, but when you open your heart, you can find your way to success.”