Claire Giacobbe – Style and Confidence Coach

I was born in the nearby town of Maidenhead, at the Canadian Red Cross Hospital, to interracial parents. Growing up in Chalvey, Slough, surrounded by a blend of cultures helped me to shape my identity of my mixed heritage and develop a sense of belonging.
For a time, I lived away from Slough and experienced a lack in cultural diversity, which only deepened my appreciation for Slough’s inclusive community. This realisation drew me back every weekend to reconnect with my family and friends, strengthening my bond with the town. During this period, I earned the nickname “The Slough girl,” a title I carry with pride and honour, always hearing “You can take the girl out of Slough, but you can’t take Slough out of the girl”.
My professional journey unfolded in Slough at a well known chocolate factory, where I not only learnt a multitude of skills but also discovered my true purpose, community engagement. It was here that my affection for working with and for the community deepened.
My connection with Slough has lots of major milestones, meeting my husband, the birth of my children and the shared history with my family.
In 2020, after mentoring and coaching individuals in Slough through community programs, I made a courageous decision to pursue my passion. I embarked on a journey to obtain qualifications in coaching and personal styling. At the height of the pandemic, I found myself facilitating employability courses and conducting coaching sessions, particularly focusing on dressing for success. It became evident to me how many people were lacking in confidence. Fuelled by this realisation and my enthusiasm, I made the bold choice to leave my corporate job and establish my own business, I Got Style, which was born in 2021.
My passion for style extends beyond personal style and confidence. I am deeply committed to reshaping the perception of Slough’s style. Through this project, I aspire to instil positivity and foster a sense of empowerment within the community. I am dedicated to transforming the town’s undeserved negative perception by highlighting its rich culture and the vibrant stories of its residents.
Each person, with their unique background and experiences, adds to the richness that defines Slough as a place of unexpected beauty.
Supporting the volunteers who contributed to this project has been one of the most powerful experiences. Their stories are not just narratives of personal achievements or challenges, they are powerful affirmations of our people and the strength of our community. Listening to their stories has been profoundly engaging and inspiring. Each volunteer brings a unique perspective and a wealth of experiences that enrich the fabric of our community. Their dedication and passion have shown me that Slough has its own style and unique spirit within its stories.
Through the collective efforts of the volunteers and the compelling stories they share, we are celebrating diversity, resilience and the vibrancy of Slough.
My aim is to ensure the town is recognised for its beauty and acknowledged not only by its residents but by all who visit. This project is by far my proudest yet, highlighting the true essence of Slough.