Wrapped in a red leather coat, pearls the size of Maltesers dangling from her ears, Caroline Hong is a picture of success.
And that's the way she likes it.
"When I was 12 in Malaysia, I was homeless," she said.
"I dress in luxury items now because I want to show people you can.
"It's a symbol."
Forced to leave her mother and siblings, Ms Hong was eventually taken in by a temple before moving to Australia in 1976.
Now, almost 40 years on, she will take part in her fifth Vinnies CEO Sleepout on June 19, joining the 28,000 people who sleep rough every night in NSW.
The founder of her own consulting business, she says the initiative is more important than ever because more women and children are experiencing homelessness.
But unlike single men, they're not as visible on the streets.
"When we talk about females and families, we generally don't see them," she said.
Speaking from personal experience, she is also determined to raise the profile of Asian people and immigrants who become homeless but are too proud to ask for help.
"It took me a long, long time to talk about my story," she said.
"For Asian people, it's all about face and when they're poor they don't talk about it."
Homelessness NSW spokesman Digby Hughes agrees there has been a demographic shift with more women and children without a roof over their heads.
Unless it's addressed, he says this trend could take a long-term toll on society.
"It's making it more generational," he said.
"Children who are homeless are more likely to be homeless as adults."
This year the Sleepout aims to raise $7 million - topping up the $20 million already raised since it began in 2006.
For Ms Hong, the event will undoubtedly bring back painful memories, but it is worth it if she can inspire others to give generously.
