Meet CRISTINA MCINNES

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to CRISTINA MCINNES. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

CRISTINA, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.

How I Found My Purpose Through Cristina’s Closet

For as long as I can remember, I’ve believed in the power of kindness and the strength of community. I’ve always felt a deep responsibility to help others, especially those facing hard times. But like many people, I spent years searching for what that would look like for me. I didn’t know then that my purpose wasn’t something I would stumble upon — it was something that would grow from my own experiences, struggles, and a simple act of giving.

Cristina’s Closet was born out of a very real, very personal understanding of what it feels like to be in need. I’ve experienced seasons in my life when resources were scarce and opportunities felt out of reach. I know the feeling of walking into a room and hoping your appearance doesn’t give away your struggles. I know what it means to feel overlooked because of circumstances beyond your control.

One day, while helping a friend prepare for a job interview, I realized how something as simple as a clean, well-fitting outfit could completely change a person’s confidence. That moment stuck with me. I started collecting gently used professional clothing from friends, family, and community members. What began as a few outfits in the backseat of my car quickly turned into something so much bigger.

When I opened Cristina’s Closet in April 2022, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I just knew I wanted to create a safe, judgment-free space where anyone could come, get what they needed, and leave with dignity. The response from the community was overwhelming. People weren’t just in need of clothing — they were in need of connection, hope, and the reassurance that someone cared about them.

Through this journey, I found my purpose: to serve, to uplift, and to remind people of their worth. Cristina’s Closet isn’t just about clothing; it’s about opportunity, second chances, and believing in people before they believe in themselves. Every time I see someone walk out our door standing a little taller, it reminds me why this work matters.

I’ve learned that purpose isn’t always loud or flashy. Sometimes, it starts in the quiet moments — a conversation, a donation, a simple act of kindness. My purpose was always within me; it just needed the right space to bloom. Cristina’s Closet is that space. And every life we touch is a reminder that we are all more alike than we are different.

This isn’t just my purpose — it’s my promise.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

At Cristina’s Closet, I have the privilege of helping people in one of the most meaningful ways possible — by providing them with clothing, confidence, and a sense of hope during some of life’s toughest moments. We offer free, professional, and everyday clothing to anyone in need, no questions asked. Whether it’s for a job interview, the first week at a new job, or just to feel good about themselves again, we’re here to help.

What makes me feel most excited is seeing the instant transformation in someone’s face when they realize they’re not being judged — they’re being cared for. It’s those moments when a person looks in the mirror, stands a little taller, and smiles with pride because, for the first time in a long time, they feel seen and valued.

Cristina’s Closet is special because it’s more than clothing — it’s about restoring dignity and showing people they matter. Every piece of clothing has a story, and every person who walks through our doors leaves with more than just an outfit; they leave with a little more confidence and hope than they came in with.

This is why I do what I do, and it fills my heart every single day!

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back on my journey of opening Cristina’s Closet, there were three qualities and skills that made the biggest impact in bringing this dream to life:

1️⃣ Compassionate Leadership

I learned that leading with heart matters. Compassionate leadership means seeing people for who they are, not just what they need. It’s about creating a safe space where everyone feels valued and welcomed. This quality allowed me to build trust with the community and form lasting partnerships. My advice: Never underestimate the power of kindness in leadership. People will forget what you said or did, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.

2️⃣ Community Connection & Networking

Building meaningful relationships within the community was one of the most important tools I had. By reaching out, showing up, and collaborating, Cristina’s Closet became more than a service — it became a community effort. My advice: Don’t be afraid to ask for help, share your vision, and create partnerships. Your mission will grow faster and stronger when you involve others in it.

3️⃣ Adaptability & Resourcefulness

Starting something from the ground up meant I had to be flexible, creative, and willing to figure things out as I went. From finding clothing racks to managing donations and learning nonprofit operations, adaptability kept me moving forward. My advice: Be willing to pivot. The road won’t always look like you imagined, but stay committed to your ‘why’ and trust that you’ll learn what you need along the way.

If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone chasing a dream like this, it would be: “Start small, lead with love, and let the community shape your journey. Purpose isn’t always found in big moments — it’s built in the everyday acts of showing up for others.”

What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?

Over the last 12 months, my biggest area of growth has been learning how to trust myself as a leader and embrace the idea that I don’t have to have all the answers to make a difference.

When I first started Cristina’s Closet, I often second-guessed decisions, worried about doing everything perfectly, and felt the weight of wanting to get it “right” for everyone who walked through our doors. But this past year taught me that leadership isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence, heart, and showing up even when the path isn’t fully clear.

I’ve grown in my ability to delegate, ask for help, and surround myself with people whose strengths complement my own. I’ve also learned to celebrate small wins, take lessons from setbacks, and trust the mission enough to know that every step forward, no matter how small, matters.

Most importantly, I’ve grown in grace — for myself, for others, and for the process. And that growth has made me a better leader, a better listener, and a stronger advocate for the people we serve.

This past year didn’t just build a better nonprofit — it helped build a more grounded, resilient, and purpose-driven version of me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cristinascloset.org
• Instagram: cistinasclosetyuma
• Facebook: cristinascloset

Image Credits

Cristina McInnes