Star Stories: VIP Empowerment

In our latest round of Stars for Stars awards, VIP Empowerment has been recognised for founder Vie Portland’s inspiring work in Southampton.

The organisation is dedicated to helping individuals embrace who they are, build their self-esteem and grow their confidence.

Vie’s nomination and our subsequent award highlight her powerful contribution to mental wellbeing across our city.

She says: “It’s such a wonderful accolade and a joy that it’s all about kindness and promoting good mental health.”

Promote empowerment

VIP Empowerment and Vie were praised by their nominator for the way they help people, how they promote empowerment and how they boost positive self-identity.

The organisation’s ethos is built on kindness, self-acceptance and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to feel confident and capable. Its workshops, coaching sessions and empowerment programmes create safe, uplifting environments where people can explore their strengths and recognise their worth.

Positive impact

The nomination submitted to us reinforced the organisation’s positive impact. The nominator explained how VIP Empowerment works mainly with women and young people and how important that was.

They emphasised the supportive, affirming nature of the organisation and its commitment to building resilience.

Pride in identity

Through creative empowerment activities, one-to-one support and group sessions, VIP Empowerment offers tools that help people navigate challenges, recognise their strengths and take pride in their identity.

This approach aligns closely with the purpose of our Stars for Stars initiative, which is to recognise organisations that actively nurture positive mental wellbeing and create environments where people feel understood and supported.

VIP Empowerment with Vie continue to uplift our citywide community with their message of confidence, authenticity and kindness.

Want to nominate your star/stars?

We’re looking for nominations for our spring set of stars. If you know an organisation, business, charity or person who is helping make Southampton a brighter, kinder place for us all, please nominate them here!

Like to know more about our initiative, click here.

Photograph with thanks to Tim Kenyon Photography.