Official Launch!
Welcome to the second edition of our Doing Good Deeds magazine. We’re thrilled to delve into the amazing potential of human kindness within the pages of this publication.
Our team has meticulously curated a collection of inspiring stories, thought-provoking articles, and captivating interviews that showcase the inspiring ways individuals and communities are making the world a better place.
But more importantly, from the very inception of this magazine, our vision has been to empower you, our readers, to become advocates of transformation and change.
At the core of our publication lies the unwavering belief that we are not passive observers but active participants in shaping a brighter future. Each one of us possesses the power to bring about meaningful change, and it is our mission to ignite that spark within you through the pages of this magazine.
Our goal is to inspire you to become an advocate for change. As you delve into the articles, let us collectively awaken to our immense potential to make a difference.
Together, we can create a world where love and compassion prevail, where the unattainable becomes achievable.
Thank you for being part of our noble mission. Please help us amplify our efforts by sharing this magazine with your networks and inviting others to join our community of changemakers.
Will you vote YES in the Historic Australian Referendum
Australia’s defining moment has arrived, beckoning each of us to shape the course of our nation’s future. As we stand at the crossroads of history, we are faced with a profound opportunity to champion progress, unity, and inclusivity. The Yes Referendum has emerged as a powerful catalyst for change, empowering us to take a bold step towards a brighter and more equitable Australia.
Later this year, Australians will vote on a straightforward proposition developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over many years. To bring constitutional recognition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to hear their voice about matters affecting their communities, and to make a practical difference with concrete results.
We will be asked to recognise that our country’s history begins with 65,000 years of continuous Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural connection to this great land and support the creation of a committee ensuring Indigenous voices have a say when the Government is making decisions about policies that affect their communities.
The essence of the Yes Referendum is deeply rooted in the pursuit of equality, a value that lies at the heart of our national identity. By casting our votes with a resounding “Yes,” we are actively endorsing a society that upholds the rights and dignity of every individual equally from every background and heritage. This vote is our collective call to dismantle the remnants of discriminatory practices and embrace a future where unity and diversity go hand in hand.
As we vote in the Yes Referendum, we are not only shaping our present but also paving the path for future generations. The youth of today look to us for guidance and inspiration. By voting “Yes,” we impart a powerful lesson—that progress requires courage, compassion, and a commitment to creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Australia, this is our time. With every “Yes” vote, we take one step closer to a brighter tomorrow—a future where diversity is celebrated, where every voice is heard, and where unity prevails.
Embrace the spirit of change. Vote “Yes” and shape the destiny of Australia—one vote at a time.
Here's How You Can Help:
If you believe in the vision of a more inclusive, compassionate, and united Australia, there are several ways you can get involved and offer your support:
- Educate Yourself: Make sure you understand the details and implications of the Yes Referendum. Educate yourself on the issues at hand and the potential changes it could bring to Australia’s future.
Encourage Others to Vote: Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about the importance of the Yes Referendum and encourage them to cast their votes. Every vote counts, and spreading awareness can make a significant impact.
Engage in Discussions: Participate in discussions about the referendum and its implications within your community or online platforms. Engaging in constructive conversations can help raise awareness and address concerns.
Volunteer and Advocate: Look for organisations and groups that are actively advocating for the Yes Referendum and offer your time or resources to support their efforts.
Utilise Social Media: Use social media platforms to share information about the Yes Referendum and its significance. Amplify the message to reach a broader audience.
Attend Events and Rallies: If there are any events or rallies related to the referendum, participate in them to show your support and solidarity with the cause.
Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on the latest developments regarding the referendum, including important dates and updates on the voting process.
When the time comes for the actual vote, make sure to check the official sources for information on how and when to cast your vote. Follow the instructions provided by the Electoral Commission or relevant authorities to ensure your vote is counted.
Embrace Hope: Save Orangutans' Fragile Home
The Orangutan Project was established in 1998 by founder and world-renowned orangutan expert, Leif Cocks, as a result of his 25+ year career working with orangutans.
They have established the most successful breeding colony of orangutans in the world.
The projects funded by The Orangutan Project not only include direct orangutan conservation, such as orangutan rescue, rehabilitation and release programs, but also forest habitat protection and regeneration, education, research and local community partnerships.
Since 2002, over 170 orangutans have been rehabilitated and released into the forest, where they spend years learning crucial forest skills, such as nest building and foraging for food. Through extensive monitoring and support, the released orangutans adapt to their new forest life, making significant strides in the wild.
Harapi’s Story
Harapi is a male baby orangutan tragically taken from his mother and kept as an illegal pet. Thanks to the joint efforts of BKSDA Kaltim/Ministry of Environment and Forestry and the BORA alliance, Harapi was rescued and brought to The Orangutan Project’s BORA rescue centre in East Kalimantan.
Surrounded by a compassionate team, Harapi found safety, hope, and a new beginning.
Now approximately ten months old, he has become a cherished member of The Orangutan Project family. The dedicated team has provided him with specialised medical attention and a nurturing environment to ensure his well-being and development. Their commitment remains steadfast as they prepare Harapi for his eventual release back into the wild.
Beyond individual success stories like Harapi’s, The Orangutan Project shares a dream of a greener tomorrow, where humans and wildlife coexist harmoniously. Their unwavering dedication drives them to explore community-driven initiatives, ensuring the Bukit Tigapuluh Ecosystem thrives for generations to come.
How You Can Help
Support The Orangutan Project
As conscientious citizens of the world, each of us bears a responsibility in safeguarding these remarkable creatures and the places they call home. There are many ways you can make a difference by supporting The Orangutan Project’s critical initiatives.
There are many amazing, inspiring and life changing ways you can make a difference and support The Orangutan Project’s critical initiatives including: adopting an Orangutan; planting trees; business partnerships and even taking an adventure tour to Borneo! Check out all the ways you can help or get involved below.
Stop Using Palm Oil Products
Did you know....
Did you know that the innocent choices we make while shopping for everyday products can have a profound impact on the fate of orangutans, other precious wildlife, and the health of our planet? The culprit behind this devastating issue is the insatiable demand for palm oil – a widely used ingredient found in almost all products we consume and use daily. It’s time to uncover the truth and take action to protect our world.
Orangutan Havens Turned Into Deserts:
Palm oil production is the driving force behind mass deforestation, particularly in regions like Indonesia and Malaysia. These vibrant rainforests are not just home to orangutans, but also to majestic tigers, rhinoceroses, and countless other species. The relentless expansion of palm oil plantations is bulldozing their homes and pushing them to the brink of extinction.
Production of palm oil is also a major contributor to climate change, speeding up global warming and intensifying the climate crisis we all face.
Why? Because consumer demand for palm oil is at alarming levels.
Here’s the worst part…you probably don’t even know about this!
Palm oil is sneaking its way into our lives through a wide range of products. You’ll find it in your favourite snacks like biscuits, chips, and crackers. It’s even present in personal care items like soap, shampoo, and cosmetics. It’s time to take a closer look at the labels of the products you bring into your home.
Join the Boycott, Spread the Word
Now, here’s where you come in – as a conscious consumer and a passionate advocate for change. Start by boycotting products containing palm oil. Read the labels on everything you buy!
By doing so, you’re not just taking a stand against palm oil, but also sending a powerful message to industries that need to change their practices.
But don’t stop there – share this vital information with your friends, family, and social media circles. Encourage them to join you in this movement to save orangutans, protect wildlife, and combat climate change. Together, we can create a groundswell of awareness and drive positive change that extends far beyond our immediate actions.
Let’s rewrite the future – one palm oil-free product at a time. Our choices today will shape the world we leave for generations to come. Join the boycott, spread the word, and let’s be the force that brings about lasting change.
Shining Hope: The UV Purification Sticker Transforming Lives in Cambodia
In the heart of Cambodia, a remarkable solution is transforming the way communities purify their water, offering newfound hope and health. Introducing the SAFE sticker – a brilliantly simple UV purification label that has been changing lives, one bottle at a time.
The concept behind the SAFE sticker is straightforward
Apply it to a bottle filled with contaminated water, let it bask in the sun, and watch the magic unfold. The sun’s rays obliterate harmful bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms, sterilising the water making it safe to drink.
Dr. Martin Butson, the innovative mind behind this groundbreaking solution, co-invented the SAFE sticker to address the challenges faced by those relying on sunlight for water purification.
Inspired by a family legacy of scientific achievements, the Butson family established The Water Gift charity to distribute SAFE stickers in Cambodia. Pilot programs in rural areas, lake regions, mountains, and urban slums near Siam Reap have yielded extraordinary impacts.
For many Cambodians, water sources are limited to contaminated wells, lakes, or roadside puddles, causing severe health issues. The SAFE sticker’s effectiveness lies in its affordability and accessibility, utilising the sun’s natural energy without additional resources.
The pilot program’s remarkable success, benefiting around 1,000 households, is just the beginning. The Water Gift charity seeks support from compassionate individuals and organisations worldwide to expand the SAFE sticker’s reach, creating a healthier, more resilient future for Cambodian villages.
How You Can Help
You can be a part of this transformative journey. Embrace the life-changing solution to make clean water accessible to all. Support The Water Gift in their mission to provide SAFE stickers to Cambodian villages, improving water quality, and saving lives.
Your contribution can make a profound difference in often overlooked communities. Donate now and become an agent of transformation. Let’s make every drop count!
Green Revolution: Brazil's Stunning 34% Drop in Amazon Deforestation Sparks Hope and Inspires Global Action
A triumph worth celebrating! Brazil’s national government has just announced a staggering 34% reduction in Amazon deforestation during the first half of this year compared to the same period last year.
This inspiring news from Brazil fills us with hope, not just for the Amazon but for our planet’s most critical ecosystems. It is a powerful reminder of the profound impact conscious leadership can have in safeguarding our natural treasures. So, let’s draw inspiration from Brazil’s success and unleash our collective power in our own communities and beyond. Together, we can take meaningful action to protect and preserve our precious environment for generations to come.
Want to help in the reforestation of our planet? Let's make a difference together!
Green Sakthi, one of our charity partners, has taken on a seismic project to plant 5 million trees.
Donate Trees Birthday Fundraiser
It’s super easy to play your part by setting up a birthday fundraiser- all you have to do is click a button. Everything else is taken care of for you.
Become a Green Sakthi Member
Become a Green Sakthi member and offer your ongoing support? Click here for all details.
HEARTWARMING NEWS
Walking Hand in Hand with a Brave Girl
In a heartwarming act of compassion, President Stevo Pendarovski of North Macedonia took action when he heard about 11-year-old Embla Ademi’s struggle with bullying due to her Down syndrome.
Holding her hand, the President personally accompanied Embla to her elementary school in Gostivar. This powerful gesture not only showed support for Embla and her family but also highlighted the importance of inclusion and empathy for children with atypical development.
During their meeting, President Pendarovski engaged with Embla’s family, discussing the challenges they face daily. He emphasised that children like Embla should not only enjoy their rights but also feel equal and welcome in the school community. He condemned any behaviour that endangers children’s rights and stressed the need for a society built on empathy and solidarity.
The President’s message resonates beyond North Macedonia’s borders, serving as a call to action for individuals and nations alike. Let us be inspired by President Pendarovski’s example and strive to create inclusive environments where every child is cherished, celebrated, and given the opportunity to thrive. Together, we can build a more just and compassionate world for all, regardless of their developmental differences.
SPOTLIGHT ON ORDINARY AUSTRALIANS DOING GOOD
Lydy Reusable Silicone Coffee Cup Lids: A Small Step Towards a Greener World
In a world where convenience often clashes with environmental concerns, one entrepreneur decided to take matters into her own hands, and in doing so, she created a simple yet impactful solution – Lydy Reusable Silicone Coffee Cup Lids.
Lauren Yehezkel, the founder of Lydy, had a moment of clarity that sparked her journey towards sustainability. As a former cafe owner, she witnessed the ebb and flow of customers with reusable cups, only to notice the disappointment when they forgot their lids. It was a personal experience, dropping two reusable cups in a week, that led her to realise the necessity for a reusable lid that could fit any cup – her ‘Aha’ moment.
The motivation to address the plastic waste crisis was equally compelling. Lauren’s discomfort with the contribution her cafe bakery was making to the ever-growing plastic waste problem fueled her determination to find a solution. Being an imperfect environmentalist herself, juggling work, family, and eco-conscious choices, Lauren sought to make sustainability convenient through Lydy.
“Seeing how much plastic waste we as a cafe bakery were contributing to the plastic waste crisis made me feel very uncomfortable. I just didn’t know how to fix it. I would call myself an imperfect environmentalist, I want to do the right thing but working 7 days and having a child meant the solution needed to be convenient. I truly believe small actions matter and that’s why Lydy is something we can all do,” she explains.
The impact of Lydy Coffee Cup Lids is far-reaching. A single cafe can go through a staggering 70,000 lids annually, and with 19,000 cafes in New South Wales alone, the collective numbers are mind-boggling. By using one Lydy lid a day, individuals can contribute to a significant reduction in plastic waste. These seemingly small actions hold the key to immense environmental benefits.
Unexpected Benefits
Beyond its environmental impact, Lydy’s influence has touched lives in unexpected ways. While initially designed for on-the-go coffee and tea, customers have shared heartwarming stories of family members with arthritic hands and uncontrollable shakes benefiting from the secure and spill-proof design. Lydy’s versatility extends beyond convenience, offering comfort and empowerment.
Challenges have been part of the journey, particularly in educating consumers about the benefits of reusable lids. Lauren has confronted these challenges head-on, emphasising the facts and engaging with communities to create awareness. Notably, not all local councils recycle plastic lids, adding another layer of complexity to the issue. The response from customers and the community has been overwhelmingly positive. The appreciation for Lydy’s mission has been humbling, reinforcing the significance of practical solutions in the realm of sustainability.
For aspiring sustainable entrepreneurs, Lauren’s advice is simple yet powerful – believe in the greater good and take the leap. Overcoming obstacles requires determination and finding innovative solutions.
Lauren envisions global accessibility, with Lydy Coffee Cup Lids becoming a staple in every corner of the world. This expansion aligns seamlessly with her vision of a greener, healthier future, built on practical choices and collective effort.
She emphasises the importance of making sustainable choices, regardless of occasional missteps. The journey towards a greener future is a collective one, and every small action contributes to a larger positive impact.
How You Can Help
Lydy has very generously offered all our readers a discount on all purchases.
Use the code LYDYLIFE10 at the checkout. With Lydy, practical sustainability becomes more than a concept – it becomes a way of life.
Well done Lauren and Lydy for making a massive difference for our planet!!
Help Us Spread The Word!
Are you ready to make a difference in the world? We invite you to join us on our mission to spread kindness, compassion, and hope far and wide. Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change that touches the lives of countless individuals and communities. But we need your help to make this happen.
You can start making a difference right now by spreading the word about our magazine. Share it with your loved ones, colleagues, and anyone who wants to be a part of something bigger than themselves. Together, we can inspire more people to take action and make the world a better place.
So what are you waiting for? Join us on this journey of hope and possibility, and let’s make a difference together.
