Editor's Note
“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” ~ Muhammad Ali
WELCOME to the sixth edition of Doing Good Deeds! It’s an absolute pleasure to continue this journey with you, as we spotlight the extraordinary efforts and dedication of those who are committed to making a lasting impact on our world. Each edition acts as a reminder that collective action can generate ripples of positive impact that reach beyond our immediate communities.
As we embark on this new chapter, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our diverse community and the stories that inspire our shared mission. This edition is unique, as it introduces a variety of forward-thinking initiatives and innovative approaches that are making real, lasting differences. From addressing the challenges of waste in the fashion industry to promoting women’s leadership, and from breakthroughs in holistic health to safeguarding our marine ecosystems, these stories reflect our enduring commitment to building a brighter, more sustainable future.
This edition also provides updates on our ongoing projects, including the continued success of the Small Animals Protection Project, which has made impressive strides thanks to your generous support.
Your engagement is what makes Doing Good Deeds more than just a magazine—it’s a movement.
As you navigate through these stories of hope, innovation, and resilience, I encourage you to reflect on your own contributions and the impact you wish to make. Whether you’re already deeply involved in these efforts or just beginning your journey, your support and participation are vital in driving this movement forward.
Thank you for being an integral part of Doing Good Deeds. Together, let’s continue to champion kindness, advocate for justice, and inspire one another to make a difference in the world.
P.S. Your support is invaluable. Please help us spread the love by sharing this magazine with your networks.
P.P.S If you have a good deeds story please reach out to us at [email protected]. We would love to hear from you.
Supporting the Karma Dog Project: A Lifeline for Stray Dogs
In the heart of Peedam, India, a remarkable initiative is making a profound difference in the lives of stray dogs. The Karma Dog Project, an inspiring effort under the umbrella of Green Sakthi, is dedicated to providing care and protection to the many stray dogs in the area.
Focusing on humane solutions, the project provides essential care, medical treatment, and sterilisation to manage the stray dog population. With the support of volunteers, the project is creating a more compassionate community, educating locals on animal welfare while ensuring the dogs receive the attention they deserve.
These animals, often overlooked and left to survive on their own, are receiving a second chance at life thanks to the tireless work of the Karma Dog Project. As part of our commitment to supporting meaningful causes, Doing Good Deeds is proud to spotlight this incredible project and invite our readers to get involved.
The Mission of Karma Dog Project
The Karma Dog Project is committed to providing essential care to stray dogs that would otherwise be left to fend for themselves. These dogs, often referred to as “Indie Dogs,” are more than just strays—they are companions, therapists, and loyal friends to those who take the time to care for them. The project’s efforts include providing food, shelter, medical care, and most importantly, love to these animals who have been neglected or abandoned.
One of the critical initiatives within the Karma Dog Project is the Small Animal Protection Program, which focuses on desexing and treating stray dogs to improve their health and control the population. This program is essential not only for the well-being of the dogs but also for the community, as it reduces the risks associated with large populations of stray animals and creates a more harmonious environment.
The Impact of Your Support
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the Karma Dog Project has now raised $12,925.82 of our $100,000 goal. These funds are making a real difference in the lives of stray dogs in Peedam, India.
With these contributions, the project has been able to provide essential medical treatment, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering services. This not only improves the health and well-being of the dogs but also helps control the stray population and prevent the spread of diseases.
Additionally, the project continues to engage with the local community, educating residents on the importance of animal welfare and involving them in the care of stray dogs. This grassroots involvement is key to fostering a culture of empathy and responsibility, ensuring the long-term success of the Karma Dog Project.
How You Can Help
The Karma Dog Project relies on the kindness and generosity of individuals like you. Here’s how you can make a difference:
- Donate: Your financial support is critical in providing the necessary care for these dogs. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps to feed, treat, and protect these vulnerable animals. Donate Now to the Karma Dog Project and be a part of this life-saving mission.
- Follow and Share: Follow and share the Karma Dog Project on social media to help raise awareness and encourage more people to get involved in supporting this important cause.
- Organise Your Own Birthday Fundraiser: Celebrate your birthday by making a meaningful impact through Green Sakthi’s birthday fundraiser. Instead of gifts, you can ask your friends and family to contribute towards important causes supported by Green Sakthi, including environmental and community welfare projects.
Here’s how you can get started:
- Select the project you want to support from Green Sakthi’s initiatives.
- Contact Green Sakthi at least 10 days before your birthday to set up your fundraiser.
- Share the fundraiser link with your loved ones and invite them to contribute.
- Volunteer: If you are in South India, consider volunteering your time to help care for the dogs. Your presence and compassion can make a world of difference to these animals.
Turning empathy into action
The Karma Dog Project is a shining example of how compassion and community action can transform lives—both human and animal. By supporting this initiative, you are not only helping to protect and care for stray dogs but also contributing to a broader movement of kindness and responsibility.
How are you contributing to a kinder, more compassionate world? In what ways can you take meaningful action, not just for the animals in need, but for the greater good of your community?
Reflect on how small acts of kindness, like supporting initiatives such as the Karma Dog Project, can create ripple effects of change.
What’s one step you can take today to turn empathy into action?
Circular Sourcing: Transforming Fashion Waste into Sustainable Opportunity
The fashion industry, often criticised for its environmental impact, faces a significant yet less visible issue: fabric waste. While much attention is given to discarded clothing, the vast amounts of unused fabric sitting idle in warehouses are often overlooked.
These unused fabrics, often off-cuts, deadstock, or overproduced materials, are a largely untapped resource. Instead of being discarded or incinerated, they present a unique opportunity to be reintegrated into the supply chain. Circular Sourcing has recognised this potential, turning these surplus materials into valuable products, reducing waste and supporting a more circular economy. By bridging the gap between waste and use, Circular Sourcing is leading the way in sustainable fashion solutions.
Circular Sourcing, a Melbourne-based online platform, is at the forefront of addressing this problem. Founded by Courtney Holm, this innovative business is transforming surplus fabric into valuable resources, offering a sustainable solution to the industry’s hidden waste.
The Vision Behind Circular Sourcing
Courtney Holm, a fashion designer with a passion for sustainability, was alarmed by the excess material she found while sourcing fabrics for her own label. Realising the potential of these unused resources, she envisioned a platform where surplus fabric could be sold rather than wasted. With the support of a grant from the Victorian government’s Circular Economy Business Innovation Centre, Circular Sourcing was launched, making this vision a reality.
The Impact of Circular Sourcing
Circular Sourcing is more than just an online fabric store; it represents a shift towards a circular economy within the fashion industry. The platform allows anyone, from home sewers to established fashion brands, to purchase high-quality surplus fabric that would otherwise go to waste. This not only helps to reduce fabric waste but also creates a new revenue stream for businesses, allowing them to recover some of their production costs.
For small businesses, this platform has been a game-changer. Designers like Jillian Boustred and manufacturers like Stephen Morris-Moody have successfully turned potential waste into economic opportunity, keeping thousands of metres of fabric out of landfills each year. Circular Sourcing is proving that sustainability and profitability can coexist harmoniously.
A Broader Vision for Sustainability
While Circular Sourcing is already making significant strides in Australia, Holm envisions expanding this model across the Asia-Pacific region. Given that much of the world’s garment manufacturing takes place in Asia, the potential for circular sourcing in these markets is immense. Holm sees a future where circular sourcing becomes a standard practice, significantly reducing waste and promoting sustainability on a global scale.
How You Can Support Circular Sourcing
The success of Circular Sourcing demonstrates the power of innovation and collective action. Here’s how you can contribute to this important initiative:
- Purchase Surplus Fabric: Whether you’re a home sewer or a fashion designer, consider sourcing your materials from Circular Sourcing. Every purchase helps reduce waste and supports sustainable practices.
- Follow and Share Circular Sourcing: Help spread the word about Circular Sourcing by following and sharing their social media pages. By raising awareness, you can help encourage more businesses and individuals to adopt sustainable practices.
- Support Circular Economy Initiatives: Are you a designer or brand with surplus fabric? Partner with Circular Sourcing by participating in their Sell With Us initiative, where you can list your unused fabrics for sale. This program allows you to minimise waste, promote sustainability, and contribute to the circular economy.
Circular Sourcing is leading the way towards a more sustainable fashion industry by addressing the often-overlooked problem of fabric waste. This innovative platform not only reduces waste but also provides economic benefits to businesses and offers consumers the opportunity to make more sustainable choices.
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” — Robert Swan
Are you relying on others to drive change, or are you taking responsibility for the impact your choices have on the environment? Reflect on how your personal decisions, like supporting sustainable initiatives such as Circular Sourcing, can contribute to solving the global problem of waste. What steps can you take to make more eco-conscious decisions in your daily life?
By supporting Circular Sourcing, you’re contributing to a movement that prioritises sustainability and responsibility in fashion. Together, we can work towards a circular future where nothing goes to waste.
Unlocking Potential: The Mission of Sliding Doors Foundation
Joe Collins founded the Sliding Doors Foundation to create life-changing opportunities for disadvantaged youth, inspired by the transformative scholarship he received as a young man.
The foundation’s mission is to provide “sliding doors moments” that unlock the potential of talented young individuals facing adversity. Through academic scholarships and strategic partnerships, the foundation aims to empower future leaders and make a lasting impact on their communities.
In this interview, Collins discusses the foundation’s journey, its challenges, and his vision for global expansion.
Q: Can you share the story behind the founding of Sliding Doors and what inspired you to start this foundation?
Joe Collins: The Sliding Doors Foundation (SDF) was driven by a desire to provide young talented, but disadvantaged, people with a moment in time to unlock their potential by providing a sliding doors moment. The inspiration for this came from my own journey as a young man who was given an opportunity through an academic scholarship to achieve the foundation to develop a successful career and life. Without this I wouldn’t have impacted the lives of others. We at the SDF want to empower our future leaders to change the life of others.
Q: What is the primary mission of Sliding Doors, and how do you aim to achieve it?
Joe Collins: The SDF mission is to provide a sliding doors moment for talented, but disadvantaged young people to maximise their potential for themselves and others.
Q: Can you describe some of the key programmes and initiatives that Sliding Doors is currently involved in?
Joe Collins: At present the focus is on providing young students in years 7-12 with an academic scholarships who satisfy our key criteria. We are also moving towards assisting /supporting young people achieve university and trades success. We are in addition, establishing strategic partnerships with other foundations to provide a more holistic support for ongoing mentoring.
Q: How do you measure the impact of your programmes on the communities and individuals you support?
Joe Collins: Early days but we have a range of measures we have developed that over time will provide a picture of our impact.
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you face in achieving the goals of Sliding Doors, and how do you overcome them?
Joe Collins: Obviously like all Foundations achieving the level of funding to maximise the impact for young people is a challenge. The other challenge is to ensure we impact /find the right young people to allocate funds.
Q: Can you share a success story or an example of how Sliding Doors has made a significant difference in someone’s life?
Joe Collins: Well, there are a number of these, each recipient has a background of disadvantage, a few, unfortunately have had to deal with domestic violence and abuse. Without the support of the SDF, their future may have been bleak.
Q: How does Sliding Doors collaborate with other organisations or stakeholders to enhance its impact?
Joe Collins: Strategic collaborations and partnerships is an essential requirement to implement our strategic plan. Collaborations include academic institutions, government agencies and other foundations. We also are establishing partnerships with private sector organisations to support the foundation achieve its objectives.
Q: What role do volunteers and supporters play in the success of Sliding Doors, and how can individuals get involved?
Joe Collins: Like all foundations and charities we rely on the goodwill of many people from the board down. Our functions/events/sponsorship activities are largely provided by volunteers.
Q: What are your future goals and vision for the foundation, and how do you plan to expand your reach and impact?
Joe Collins: The SDF vision is to make a global impact. Our governance framework provides for the establishment of State/regional and international chapters who will operate largely independently but within the governance policies and legal framework of the parent body. We have already established two chapters in Victoria and South Australia.
Q: For our readers who are inspired by your mission, how can they help support Sliding Doors or get in touch to contribute?
Joe Collins: There are a number of ways:
- Be part of establishing a chapter in your region.
- Our impact is largely impacted by the provision of corporate sponsorships, it is a great opportunity for the private sector to make a positive impact to the community and positively impact their brand.
- Reach out to be part of our many events and functions,
- If you have links to young people who might qualify for a scholarship, organise an application through our website.
- If you can, provide a direct donation through our website.
A Historic Victory for Animal Welfare – The End of Live Sheep Export in Australia
In a monumental win for animal welfare, Australia has taken a significant step towards ending the cruelty of live sheep exports by passing a historic bill that will see this inhumane practice phased out by May 2028. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the fight against animal cruelty, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the relentless efforts of advocates and supporters across the country.
The Power of Collective Action
The journey to this victory has been long and challenging, requiring countless investigations, media exposés, and the unwavering dedication of activists and everyday Australians alike. The success of this campaign is a testament to the power of collective action and the impact that persistent advocacy can have in bringing about real change.
Since the early 2000s, Animals Australia has been at the forefront of exposing the brutal realities of live sheep exports, from sheep being tied to car roof racks in extreme heat to enduring horrific conditions at sea. These shocking revelations have sparked public outcry and galvanised support for a ban on live exports, ultimately leading to this landmark legislation.
The Impact of Your Support
This historic decision is a direct result of the efforts of those who stood up against animal cruelty. However, the work is not over. Until the last sheep leaves Australian shores, continued vigilance and support are essential. Every voice counts in ensuring that this transition is completed successfully and that no sheep suffers in the interim.
How You Can Help
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the progress of this legislation and other animal welfare initiatives. Knowledge is power, and staying informed allows you to continue supporting these causes effectively.
- Donate: Your financial contributions can help sustain ongoing efforts to protect animals from cruelty. Support organisations like Animals Australia in their mission to end the live export trade for good.
- Support Through Your Purchases: Another meaningful way to contribute to animal welfare is by purchasing the Animals Australia’s Kinder World’ 2025 calendar.
Beautifully illustrated by a member of the Animals Australia team, this limited-edition calendar not only brightens up your space but also supports crucial efforts to protect animals. Each purchase makes a difference, helping to fund initiatives that advocate for a kinder world.
- Raise Awareness: Share the news of this historic victory with your friends and family. By spreading awareness, you can help ensure that animal welfare remains a priority in future legislative decisions.
Play Your Part
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” — Mahatma Gandhi
How does your personal stance on animal rights align with your actions?
Reflect on the recent victory to end live sheep exports and consider what role you can play in advancing the humane treatment of all animals. What more can you do to support efforts that fight against animal cruelty and promote a compassionate future for all beings?
Fighting Food Waste: How End Food Waste Australia is Making a Difference
Australia produces enough food to feed 75 million people each year, yet millions of Australians face food insecurity daily. This paradox highlights the urgent need for initiatives like End Food Waste Australia’s Food Rescue programme, which aims to tackle this issue head-on by redirecting surplus food to those in need. The initiative collaborates with some of Australia’s largest food rescue charities, including Foodbank, OzHarvest, and SecondBite, to ensure that perfectly good food is not wasted but instead goes to feed the hungry.
The Power of Food Rescue
The Food Rescue programme is a critical part of the fight against both food waste and food insecurity in Australia. By partnering with growers, wholesalers, retailers, and logistics companies, the programme captures surplus food before it becomes waste and redirects it to food rescue organisations. These organisations then distribute the food to charities and community groups that support Australians in need. This system not only reduces waste but also provides essential nutrition to millions of people who might otherwise go hungry.
The Importance of Your Support
Your support is crucial in continuing the fight against food waste and food insecurity. Donations help fund the logistics needed to transport, store, and distribute food effectively across the country. By contributing to this cause, you are directly helping to feed those in need while also reducing the environmental impact of food waste.
Get Involved
- Spread the Word: Share the mission of End Food Waste Australia with your community. Raising awareness is a powerful way to encourage more people to get involved in the fight against food waste.
- Volunteer: If you have the time and resources, consider volunteering with one of the food rescue organisations. Your efforts can make a significant difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity.
“In a world where so many go without, wasting food is more than just a loss—it’s a missed opportunity to help those in need.” — José Andrés, Chef and Humanitarian
What role can you personally play in reducing waste—whether in your workplace, home, or community—to ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for all?
Perhaps you could start a workplace food-sharing initiative where employees can bring surplus food from home to share with colleagues, raise funds together to donate to local shelters or even venture out of the office together and feed two homeless people where you work. This simple practice can reduce individual food waste and create a sense of community while supporting those in need.
By taking small steps towards reducing food waste, each of us contributes to a larger movement that tackles both food insecurity and environmental challenges. Every action, no matter how small, creates ripples of change that impact the lives of many and the wellbeing of our planet.
Tackling Plastic Waste – A Growing Concern for Australians
A recent YouGov survey has highlighted a significant concern among Australians regarding the use of plastic in their daily lives and its impact on the environment.
With 78% of Australians expressing worry about the nation’s plastic use, it’s clear that this issue resonates deeply with the public. The survey further reveals that 81% of Australians are concerned about plastic use globally, while 63% are particularly troubled by the amount of plastic used in their own homes. This growing awareness reflects a collective recognition of the harmful effects of plastic pollution on both human health and the planet.
Taking Action Against Plastic Waste
In response to these concerns, many Australians are adopting more sustainable habits in their daily routines. For instance, 71% now carry reusable shopping bags, 53% reuse takeaway containers, and 51% bring their own reusable bottles or cups. These small but significant actions contribute to reducing the overall plastic footprint. However, there is still a long way to go, as the survey also indicates that women are more likely than men to practise these habits, suggesting a need for broader engagement across all demographics.
The call for stricter regulations is also growing, with 61% of Australians supporting a ban on disposable coffee cups and 57% advocating for the prohibition of plastic wrappers for food items. These findings suggest that you, the public, are ready for more comprehensive policies that can significantly reduce plastic waste and promote environmental sustainability.
How You Can Help
If you’re concerned about the impact of plastic waste, there are several ways you can contribute to the solution:
- Adopt Sustainable Habits: Start by incorporating simple changes into your daily routine, such as using reusable bags, bottles, and containers. Choose fruit and vegetables that are not wrapped in plastic at the grocery store. Avoid buying water or soda in plastic bottles. Carry a reusable coffee mug.
- Switch to Reusables: Invest in reusable bags, water bottles, and containers. Keeping them easily accessible in your car or workspace can make this transition smoother.
- Opt for Bulk Buying: Purchasing food and household products in bulk helps to minimise packaging waste. Many stores now offer bulk bins for dry goods and cleaning supplies
- Eliminate Single-Use Plastics: Refuse plastic straws, cutlery, and packaging. Bring your own reusable alternatives, such as metal straws and bamboo cutlery
- Rethink Food Storage: Replace plastic wraps and ziplock bags with glass jars, bento boxes, or beeswax wraps to store food(
- Support Local Farmers’ Markets: Buy produce directly from local markets where it is often sold without packaging, and remember to bring your reusable bags.
Take Action
The concern over plastic waste in Australia is growing, and it’s encouraging to see more people taking action. However, there is still much work to be done. By continuing to raise awareness and adopt sustainable practices, we can collectively make a significant difference in reducing plastic pollution and protecting our environment for future generations.
What steps are you taking to reduce plastic waste in your daily life?
What one more simple practical action can you take in your daily life to make a positive impact?
Pro Tip: You could start using a refillable water bottle instead of buying plastic bottled water. This small shift can greatly reduce the amount of plastic waste you generate, as well as save money in the long run, while keeping plastic out of landfills and oceans.
Rising Costs in Eyecare and the Role of Sight For All
The rising cost of eye care in Australia is becoming a significant barrier for many people, leading to a concerning trend where individuals are avoiding necessary treatments due to financial constraints.
This issue is especially challenging in rural areas, where access to affordable eye care is limited. Sight For All is stepping in to provide free or subsidised services, ensuring that those in need receive critical eye care and supporting sustainable solutions through specialist training.
According to recent research, nearly one in four Australians are opting out of prescribed eyecare services because of the associated costs. This issue is further exacerbated by declining Medicare rebates and the increasing gap between subsidised care and the actual costs of services.
Those without private health insurance or those in poorer health are particularly affected, with many unable to afford the out-of-pocket expenses required for essential eyecare.
The Impact on Eye Health
This financial strain is not just a matter of inconvenience; it has serious implications for public health. Early detection and treatment of eye conditions are crucial in preventing more severe outcomes, such as vision loss. However, with the costs of services like retinal imaging and other diagnostic tools being prohibitively high, many Australians are missing out on these critical interventions. This gap in care can lead to a higher incidence of preventable blindness and other vision-related issues, particularly among vulnerable populations.
How Sight For All is Making a Difference
Amid these challenges, organisations like Sight For All are stepping up to bridge the gap. Sight For All is dedicated to eliminating avoidable blindness and vision impairment across the world, with a focus on empowering communities through education, training, and provision of necessary equipment. By offering sustainable solutions and focusing on long-term impact, Sight For All is helping to ensure that more people, regardless of their financial situation, have access to the eye care they need.
The organisation’s efforts are not limited to Australia; Sight For All works internationally, especially in low-income countries where the burden of visual impairment is the greatest. Their work is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in addressing global health challenges.
How You Can Help
You can support Sight For All’s mission by making a donation, volunteering your time, or spreading the word about their work. Every contribution helps to provide essential eyecare services to those who need it most.
“Good vision is not a privilege, it’s a right. Everyone should have access to the care they need, regardless of their circumstances.” – Dr. Sanduk Ruit, co-founder of the Himalayan Cataract Project
How can you contribute to making vision care more accessible in your community or network?
Practical Tip: Next time you update your prescription glasses, consider donating your old pairs to charities that redistribute them to those in need, ensuring someone else benefits from clear vision.
Less is More: How RecycleSmart is Leading the Way in Sustainable Living
The constant push to consume and keep up with trends often leads to unnecessary waste. However, a shift towards sustainability is challenging this mindset, promoting the idea that less truly is more. RecycleSmart, a leading platform in waste management and recycling, is at the forefront of this movement, encouraging Australians to embrace underconsumption and reduce their environmental impact.
The Rise of Underconsumption
A recent social media trend, ‘underconsumption core,’ showcases the value of using what you already have rather than constantly seeking new products. This approach not only saves money but also significantly reduces waste. RecycleSmart champions this idea by encouraging consumers to get the most out of their products—whether it’s cutting cosmetics packaging in half or reusing and repairing items instead of buying new ones. This shift is crucial in moving towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
RecycleSmart’s Role in Promoting Sustainability
RecycleSmart provides practical solutions for reducing waste, making it easier for Australians to recycle correctly and efficiently. Their services include the ‘Power Pickup,’ where they collect soft plastics, e-waste, textiles, and other hard-to-recycle items directly from your doorstep. By making recycling convenient, RecycleSmart empowers individuals and families to take action against waste, ensuring that more materials are kept out of landfills and given a second life.
Beyond recycling, RecycleSmart also promotes the importance of mindful consumption. They encourage people to repair and reuse items, buy second-hand, and think twice before discarding something that could still be of value. This approach helps the environment and fosters a culture of sustainability that can inspire broader societal change.
How You Can Make a Difference
- Start Recycling Smart: Sign up for RecycleSmart’s Power Pickup service to make recycling easier and more effective in your household.
- Adopt an Underconsumption Mindset: Before buying something new, consider if you can repair, reuse, or find a second-hand alternative. Small changes in your consumption habits can have a big impact on reducing waste.
By choosing to buy less and reuse more, you reduce your environmental footprint and help shift away from the fast-consumption culture. Simple actions like mending clothes or buying second-hand contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Spread the Word: Encourage your friends and family to join the movement. Sharing tips and strategies for reducing waste can help others make more sustainable choices.
“Sustainability is not about doing everything perfectly; it’s about making better choices consistently.” – Bea Johnson, author of Zero Waste Home
What one small change can you make today that will have a lasting positive impact on the environment?
Pro Tip
Instead of throwing away old clothes, donate, swap, or repurpose them. Many fashion brands now offer recycling programs where you can return used garments for discounts or sustainable disposal.
Follow the lead of our magazine’s founder and make a commitment to not buy any new clothes for an entire year. It will not only save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars but it will also reduce your environmental footprint significantly. By opting to reuse, repurpose, or swap existing clothing, you’ll help decrease textile waste, support sustainable fashion practices, and encourage mindful consumption.
Supporting Women in the Workplace – The Role of Working Women Queensland
For over 20 years, Working Women Queensland (WWQ) has been a vital resource for women across the state, providing free, confidential, and supportive services to those facing workplace issues. As part of Basic Rights Queensland, WWQ is dedicated to advocating for gender equity, combating workplace discrimination, and ensuring that women’s voices are heard in the workplace. This service is especially critical in a time when women continue to face challenges such as underpayment, gendered workplace discrimination, and balancing work with domestic violence situations.
The Importance of Working Women Queensland
WWQ has played a crucial role in supporting women in Queensland, offering advice and representation in cases involving discrimination, sexual harassment, workplace bullying, and other employment-related issues. The service is designed to empower women, ensuring they are seen as legitimate and respected contributors in their professional environments. With a strong focus on gendered and intersectional issues, WWQ’s work is essential in creating safer and more equitable workplaces.
In the past year alone, WWQ provided assistance to 637 women, delivering 1,696 workplace services. The majority of those helped live in rural or remote areas, highlighting the importance of accessible support for women across all regions of Queensland. This work not only addresses individual cases but also contributes to broader systemic change, advocating for policies and practices that support women’s rights at work.
How You Can Support Working Women Queensland
Your support is vital in ensuring that services like WWQ can continue to operate and assist women in need. Here’s how you can help:
- Donate: Financial contributions are crucial for maintaining and expanding the services provided by WWQ. Donate Now to support their mission.
- Spread the Word: Help amplify the mission of WWQ by sharing information about their services with your network. Whether it’s through social media, workplace discussions, or community groups, raising awareness can make a significant impact.
Many women facing workplace challenges, such as discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment, may not know that support is available to them. By spreading the word, you can connect more women to the vital resources and assistance they need.
- Attend Workshops: Participate in WWQ’s community education sessions to learn more about your rights at work and how to protect them.
“Empowering women in the workplace isn’t just about equal opportunity; it’s about creating an environment where everyone can thrive.” – Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook and author of Lean In
How can you personally contribute to creating a more supportive and equitable work environment for yourself and others?
Pro Tip:
* If you encounter workplace challenges, seek out or offer mentorship opportunities. Engaging in open conversations about issues like discrimination and bullying can foster a more inclusive and supportive work culture.
- House of Amrita – our magazine founder’s newly established charity is offering scholarships to marginalised women and women from domestic violent backgrounds. We are also partnering with corporate organisations to facilitate mentoring programs, raise awareness and raise funds. Reach out to us at [email protected] if you’re keen to help.
Conscious Leadership in Action – The Thankyou Group
Thankyou Group is not just a company; it’s a movement dedicated to ending extreme poverty through conscious leadership and innovative business practices. Founded on the belief that business can be a force for good, Thankyou creates consumer products with a purpose—100% of the profits go to life-changing projects around the world. This unique model reflects a commitment to systemic change, aiming to bridge the gap between the wealth of consumerism and the stark reality of global poverty.
The Thankyou Model: A New Approach to Consumerism
At its core, Thankyou is a social enterprise that reimagines the traditional business model. Every product they create, from hand and body care to baby wipes, is designed with sustainability in mind, and the profits are channelled directly into initiatives that target extreme poverty. Since its inception, Thankyou has given over $18.55 million AUD to impactful change-makers working on critical issues like health, education, and economic development. Their focus on partnerships with organisations that tackle complex systemic issues rather than simple solutions sets them apart as a leader in conscious business.
The Role of Conscious Leadership
Thankyou’s approach to leadership is deeply rooted in its mission. The company is owned entirely by the Thankyou Charitable Trust, ensuring that every decision is made with the goal of maximising social impact. This model of conscious leadership goes beyond profits; it’s about creating a business that is fully aligned with the values of equity, sustainability, and global responsibility. The team at Thankyou, known as allteam™, embodies these principles, working collaboratively to drive change and amplify the impact of their partners.
How You Can Play Your Part
You can be part of this movement by choosing Thankyou products and supporting their mission. Every purchase contributes to ending extreme poverty and helps create a more equitable world. Learn more about how you can get involved and join the Thankyou community in making a difference.
“Business is a powerful tool for change; it’s up to us to wield it wisely and make a difference.” – Daniel Flynn, Founder of Thankyou Group
How can you incorporate conscious leadership into your own professional practices to contribute to a greater cause beyond profit?
Pro Tip: Consider adopting a portion of your business profits to support charitable initiatives or community projects. Even small contributions can make a significant impact and align your business with a purpose-driven model.
As an author and advocate for personal growth and social impact, I have come across numerous books that have profoundly influenced my journey.
In this section, I want to share with you some must-read books that inspire, educate, and motivate us to make meaningful changes in our lives and the world around us.
These books will empower you to take action and create a positive impact.
Dive into these powerful reads and discover how you can contribute to a better world.
1. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
A modern spiritual classic, this book teaches you the importance of living fully in the present moment, unlocking the power that lies within the “now.”
2. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
A practical book offering four simple, yet powerful principles that can lead to personal freedom and a life of fulfilment.
3. Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn
A foundational text on mindfulness, this book explores meditation as a way of embracing the present and living more fully.
4. The Dalai Lama’s Cat by David Michie
This heartwarming tale provides spiritual teachings through the eyes of a cat living with the Dalai Lama, offering wisdom wrapped in a delightful narrative.
Empower yourself with knowledge and take actionable steps towards making a difference. Start reading today and join the movement towards a better future.
Meditation is a powerful tool for achieving inner peace, clarity, and well-being.
As a practitioner and advocate for holistic wellness, I have created a series of guided meditations on the Insight Timer APP to help you on your journey towards mindfulness and self-discovery.
Here are some of my recommended meditations that you can explore to enhance your daily practice.
1. Affirmations For Rapid Abundance Manifestation
This guided meditation is designed to reshape your relationship with money and cultivate an abundant mindset. Throughout this track, you will engage with powerful affirmations that reinforce the idea of money as a positive and freely flowing energy. The meditation encourages opening yourself to the possibilities of financial gain and abundance, with a focus on reducing mental and emotional fear and any unconscious resistance to money’s flow.
This meditation will align your energy with that of wealth, helping you visualise a continuous and effortless stream of financial opportunities and wealth. This is ideal for anyone looking to boost their finances and attract more abundance into their lives easily and effortlessly.
2. Business Alchemy- Amplify Your Business Success
This guided meditation is designed to empower and boost your business. Just as we nurture our own energy, our businesses also require daily love, care, and attention to thrive. . Repeat this practice regularly to manifest a purposeful, profitable and impactful business.
3. Navel Chakra Cleanse And Activation
Step into a transformative meditation, delving into the energy of your Navel Chakra – often described as the gem of rays. This concise yet potent session aims to bring renewed strength and clarity to your day. The navel chakra, or Solar Plexus Chakra, is located just above your belly button and is crucial for your self-confidence and personal power. Think of it as the centre that fuels your belief in yourself and helps you feel in control of your life. When this chakra is balanced, you feel more self-assured and capable of tackling challenges.
It also plays a role in managing your emotions, helping you stay calm and composed. A well-balanced navel chakra boosts your motivation and drive, making it easier to achieve your goals. Additionally, it affects your digestive health, contributing to overall well-being.
Use this guided meditation to keep this chakra in harmony, helping you tap into your inner strength and confidence!
Begin your journey towards greater mindfulness and well-being today. Explore these guided meditations and discover the profound benefits of a regular meditation practice.
Help Us Spread The Word!
Are you passionate about making a difference? We are looking for:
- volunteers to assist us with publishing this quarterly publication. Prior experience preferred or a willing heart
- amazing ideas, connections and organisations that you know are doing good deeds or your favourite stores or services that you use that we can promote and champion
Click on the button below to apply or send us your ideas. Thank you so much. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Publisher & Editor In Chief
Speaker | Author | Facilitator | Mentor
Managing Editor & Creative Director
