At first thought when you think of shoes, what comes to mind? Is it your Manolo Blahniks, Jimmy Choos, Ferragamos, or those lovely shoes from Bergdorf Goodman? Well, one diva doing a good thing with her shoes, not only thinks of herself but of others.

Sylvia Webb, founder and president of 40 Girls and Some Shoes, has organized shoe drives and fundraisers for the past three years to simply help those who need take the first step. And this step is out of homelessness and into transition with a pair of new or gently worn shoes. This non-profit’s basic principle: to be an agent for transformative change in the lives of those who are experiencing homelessness. Each year 3.5 million Americans experience homelessness and 23% of these individuals are children (source: National Coalition for the Homeless). Sylvia and this wonderful non-profit have managed through a vast network of partnerships and associations to provide 4,000 pairs of free shoes to these underserved groups since its inception.

Professor Diva Diaries had the opportunity to catch up with Sylvia as she was in full throttle of planning her next shoe fundraiser.  As she prepares for this event taking place this weekend in Atlanta, we wanted to capture her as the diva that she is–giving back to her community, realizing the importance of this, and just doing good and looking good too. 

What is your definition of a diva?
A woman who isn’t afraid to be herself; she is confident and understands her purpose and her gifts. A woman who doesn’t need stilettos to stand tall; she stands tall in all the SHOES she wears.

Name a diva that you identify with.
All women and women who stood up for women’s rights; the right to be free, the right to choose what happens to their bodies, the right for equal work and equal pay, and the right to choose who they love (Black, white, brown or other).

What is your latest diva purchase?

A black Tadashi Shoji dress and a great pair of shoes from Italy

What is the diva item you can’t live without?
My Mac Currant Lip Liner and Mac gives back you know?

As Sylvia stated, “shoes do not educate, nor do they guarantee a home or employment, but they can provide an increase in esteem and protect the “soles” of those looking to take what may be that first all important step in getting to the other side of their lives.”

So if you can donate divas, please do. Besides, donating a pair of shoes means room for more shoes in your closet!

Smooches,

Professor Diva Cali