Past Shows
Generation Women Sydney - My Biggest Secret
This month, get ready for an evening of gripping tales and hidden truths. From heart-wrenching confessions to jaw-dropping revelations, we've got it all. Join us as we shine a light on the stories that have been kept in the shadows for too long. Don't miss out – grab your tickets now for an unforgettable evening of storytelling!
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Imogen Breslin is a track and field athlete who specialises in the 100-metre hurdles. She recently completed dual Bachelor’s degrees in Security Studies and Law from Macquarie University. Her interests include philosophy, psychology and languages.
Team 30s: Summer Land has authored and ghostwritten more than ten books, including the recent true crime release The Last Victim, which she co-authored with Tracy Hall. Known for her sharp wit, intense curiosity and deeply empathetic nature, Summer is passionate about telling stories that inspire a more connected, compassionate and creative world.
Team 40s: Christine Shamista is a writer and poet of Sri Lankan Tamil heritage. She has worked in human rights across not-for-profit, government and philanthropy. She is passionate about storytelling and kindness, and leans towards optimism, good humour and cheekiness. She thinks women are tops and that life gets better with age.
Team 50s: Heather Cook is a chef and proud mom of three sons who has made Australia her home, despite her American roots. With years of experience running her own restaurant and catering business, Heather has cooked for many high-profile clients, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Her love of food, fun and bringing people together through unforgettable meals is at the heart of everything she does.
Team 60s: Dr Janet Peters is a lifelong LGBT activist, mother of two and stepmother to two more. She has a PhD and focuses on research and writing through her consulting firm, Mayfield Consulting Services.
Team 70s: Andreea Kindryd is an African-American-Australian storyteller and author of From Slavery to the Stars. She has attracted an astounding bunch of disrupters and influences, including American civil rights icons Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, and the cast and crew of Star Trek. Her 1975 film Tjintu Pakani documents the revolution of traditional Australian performing arts, from playwright Jack Davis to Bangarra Dance Theatre.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
This event is proudly presented by Generation Women Australia, founded by Donna Logue. The event will be hosted by Jen Ward. Generation Women was created by Georgia Clark.
THE BERESFORD
354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Wollongong - Throwing Caution to the Wind
This October, we’re diving into “Throwing Caution to the Wind”! Get ready for daring adventures, bold choices and unexpected twists. If you're craving a fresh dose of excitement and adventure, join us for a night celebrating fearless women who embrace risks and live life to the fullest. Grab your tickets now and get ready for a night of stories that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on the world!
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Paige Webster is a dynamic storyteller passionate about the Australian arts industry. After moving from the mid-North Coast in 2019, Paige found a community in Wollongong. She graduated from UOW in 2022 with two arts degrees (much to her family’s horror) and is now undertaking a Master’s of Screenwriting at AFTRS.
Team 30s: Mara Jean Quinn is a multifaceted writer, director, producer and actor. Her debut feature film, Andamooka, beautifully captures the raw beauty of the Australian outback and the resilient spirit of its people. With deep roots and a passion for sharing untold stories, Mara brings a heartfelt and evocative perspective to Generation Women.
Team 40s: Cath Blakey is an experienced urban and regional planner with a strong background in sustainability and community development. As a dedicated Councillor for the City of Wollongong, she advocates for environmentally responsible policies and inclusive urban planning. Cath’s expertise and commitment make her a vital voice in shaping a sustainable future.
Team 50s: Lisa Hughes, a designer from Wollongong, created an innovative vibrator that challenges traditional notions of pleasure products. With a focus on empowerment and inclusivity, Lisa’s work is revolutionising the sexual wellness industry by prioritising user experience and breaking down taboos.
Team 60s: Nancie Clisby draws from her rich tapestry of life experiences and healing journey to passionately support women on their path to holistic wellbeing. Her dedication to empowering others stems from overcoming personal challenges and finding joy in fulfilling her life's purpose. Nancie’s wisdom and skills guide women towards physical, emotional and spiritual growth, helping them live their best lives.
Team 80s: Dr Yola Lucire was a forensic and general psychiatrist for over 50 years. She has blown the whistle on the Social Security Conspiracy against the Greeks (1978), the Recovered (False) Memory epidemic of the 1990s and the epidemic of repetitive strain injury. She has a multidisciplinary PhD on iatrogenic disorders and has published seven papers in the discipline of safety pharmacogenetics in psychiatry.
Hosted by Tiang Lim. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.
THE BUILDERS
61 CHURCH STREET, WOLLONGONG NSW 2500
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Melbourne - Plot Twist: Stories You Never Saw Coming
Sometimes, life throws you a curveball. This September, get ready to hear six performers from the deaf/hard of hearing and deaf/blind community share stories of change. New paths can be invigorating and exciting, or confusing and downright scary. Regardless, the only constant in life is change, so come hear a night of stories about forging your own path, wherever that path takes you.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Nyanakuek Kuol, also known as Anna, is originally from South Sudan and is studying for a BA in Psychology, with a special passion for helping deaf individuals with mental health issues. She is also a disability support worker, currently working on a project to support deaf migrants. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, being in nature, hiking, going to the beach and spending time with loved ones.
Team 30s: Julia Murphy is a qualified Teacher of the Deaf, working in early education, and is also a certified deaf interpreter. Deaf from birth, her first language is Auslan (Australian Sign Language). Her passion lies in language development and empowering young deaf and hard of hearing children to discover their identities. She also loves travel, nature, sport and the Carlton Blues.
Team 40s: Catherine Miller is from a deaf family in Hobart. She grew up with both Auslan and English and was mainstreamed — an experience that significantly shaped her perspective on life and who she is. Catherine then moved to the mainland to become a teacher of the deaf. Catherine became a parent for the first time in her late 30s, which was a delightful surprise. She moved away from education during that period and focused on supporting deaf children outside of the schooling sector as well as working as a policy writer for Deaf Australia, and hasn’t looked back.
Team 50s: Joanna Agius OAM is a profoundly deaf and proud Narungga woman with connections to the Kaurna, Ngarrindjeri and Wirungu nations in South Australia. A strong advocate for deaf and hard of hearing Aboriginal people in Australia, Joanne founded Deaf Aboriginal Services in 2020. She was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2020 for her contributions to people who are deaf or hard of hearing and to the deaf Aboriginal community.
Team 60s: Heather Lawson has been involved in the deaf community all her life. She was born deaf and Auslan is her first language. During her early 20s, Heather started to lose her vision as a result of Usher Syndrome Type 1, which is genetic. During that challenging time she learned to use tactile Auslan, and was able to develop the confidence and the skills to achieve many goals, including skydiving, rock climbing /abseiling, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and more. She has presented at various deaf, deafblind and disability related conferences and passionately advocates for deafblind people to have access to information and training to improve their knowledge and skills.
Team 70s: Breda Carty worked in deaf education for many years and is now a historian. She has lived in three Australian states and the USA. She has seen (and worked toward) many changes in deaf people’s lives over the years. The older she gets, the more stories she has!
Cocurated by:
Irene Holub is a multidisciplinary artist driven by a profound belief in the transformative potential of creative expression, enabling others to experience this. She believes storytelling is a powerful medium of sharing these experiences and is excited to be part of producing this event.
Melissa Bryson is a qualified Teacher of the Deaf and has worked in various school from early to higher education. She’s a mum of two deaf adult daughters and grandma of three deaf grandsons with another one on the way. She is a qualified Auslan tutor, and provides signs for the wider community to learn on Instagram at @auslanrocks. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, travelling, doing DIY projects and walking in nature.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
This event is proudly presented by Generation Women Australia, founded by Donna Logue, and is held in support of National Week of the Deaf. The event has been curated by Irene Holub and Melissa Bryson who will also host. Generation Women was created by Georgia Clark.
7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Sydney - Let’s Talk About Sex
This month, we’re diving into stories of passion, intimacy, and the complexities of desire. Join us for a night where brave women open up about the joys, challenges, and unexpected moments that come with talking about sex. Whether you're looking to explore new perspectives or just curious about the conversations we often shy away from, this event promises to be eye-opening and thought-provoking.
Our performer line-up:
#Team 20s: Kaite McKenna is an a writer and poet who has called Sydney home for the last six years. Her work explores themes surrounding chronic illness and queer identity. Having worked in women's and LGBTQ issues for over a decade, she currently works in social housing policy for the NSW Government.
#Team 30s: Margretta Sowah works in brand management and is a freelance copywriter and content marketer. She recently won a writing mentorship with the iconic Sydney Opera House and read her work at the All About Women festival. Outside of work, she loves fashion, poetry and a glass of wine — sometimes together.
#Team 40s: Hayley Blease is passionate about trail running and being in nature, believing that the longer the run, the better the chats. With a background in sports marketing, she now handles communications and engagement for major architectural projects at the University of NSW, aiming to make a positive impact both professionally and personally.
#Team 50s: Suzie Barnett, recognized as one of the Top 100 Women in Construction in 2023, boasts 25 years in sustainability and business growth. As the Business Growth & Partnerships lead at Two Good Co, she drives social impact and builds B2B partnerships. Former CEO of Junglefy, Suzie’s expertise spans urban greening and industry leadership.
#Team 60s: Melissa Kang is a medical doctor specialising in youth health. She has worked in a clinic with disadvantaged young people for over 25 years. Currently an Associate Professor at the University of Sydney, her research focuses on access to health care for young people, adolescent sexuality and sexual health. Melissa was the writer behind the iconic ‘Dolly Doctor’ column from 1993–2016 and is co-author (with Yumi Stynes) of several books, the latest being Welcome to Sex.
#Team 70s: Menaka Cooke came to Australia in 1973, became a single parent and then educated herself to become an HR manager and later HR Director. She found her passion in retirement in feminist and ageist matters and advocating for victims of domestic violence. She has received awards from the Australian Human Resources Institute, WCEI Australia and The International Alliance of Women World of Difference. She is a newsreader on Radio2RPH and hosts the podcast Colours of Australia.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
This event is proudly presented by Generation Women Australia, founded by Donna Logue. This event is hosted by Jen Ward. Generation Women was created by Georgia Clark.
THE BERESFORD
354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Melbourne - Throwing Caution To The Wind
This month, we're diving into "Throwing Caution to the Wind"! Get ready for daring adventures, bold choices, and unexpected twists. Join us for a night celebrating fearless women who embrace risks and live life to the fullest. If you're craving a fresh dose of excitement and adventure, don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind event. Grab your tickets now and get ready for a night of stories that'll leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on the world!
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Asha Clementi is a gender equality advocate creating access and opportunity for young women. In 2018, she attended the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, an experience that inspired her to found Girls Run The World – a program that encourages young women to engage in diplomacy. In 2022, she was named the ACT Young Woman of the Year and one of the 40 Under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australians.
Team 30s: Velma Vouloir is a nationally award-winning cabaret/burlesque artist, teacher, historian, writer, model and solo parent. Velma also hosts the award-winning podcast Cntroversy, which explores the history of eroticism in art, pop culture and society. Her work centres largely around advocacy and creative expression of the feminine through performance and storytelling.
Team 40s: Erika Cramer, also known as the Queen of Confidence, is an award-winning coach, international speaker and author, empowering individuals worldwide to create confidence and transform their lives. Her award-winning podcast The Confidence Chronicles has over 3 million downloads. Erika's story of recovering from childhood and adult trauma is a testament to the power of resilience and healing, showing that one can overcome any challenge and emerge stronger than before.
Team 50s: Nicky Barry is a standup comedian from Naarm/Melbourne. She’s also a storyteller par excellence, fulltime goddess and mother to four wonderful kidults. Nicky has worked for many years in projects supporting marginalised communities. She is a founding member of the Comedy Women’s Association and a passionate practitioner of wanton misbehaviour.
Team 60s: Annie de Monchaux is a writer and former nurse, mural artist and Hollywood scriptwriter. Her first novel, Audrey's Gone AWOL, was published by Ultimo Press earlier this year. She is also the author of Cray Tales, which was shortlisted for the Western Australia Premier's Award. She has three children, one husband, one dog and one (bad-tempered) cat and is currently writing her second novel.
Team 70s: Renata Singer’s most recent book is Older & Bolder: Life after 60, a rallying cry to live audaciously in the last third of your life. She is doing her very best to live up to her own advice. She is on the board of the Kadimah Jewish Cultural Centre and, along with Marion Webster, founded the organisation Fitted for Work.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Sydney - Throwing Caution To The Wind
This month, we're diving into stories of daring adventures, bold choices and unexpected twists. Join us for a night celebrating fearless women who embrace risks and live life to the fullest. If you're craving a fresh dose of excitement and adventure, don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind event. Grab your tickets now and get ready for a night of stories that'll leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on the world!
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Nayonika Bhattacharya (she/they) is a glass-half-full person who is passionate about empowering young people to share their stories. They trudge through the legal industry during the day, and moonlight as a baker-turned-storyteller, lived-experience advisor, youth activist, reader, earring collector, ring wearer, bass player and consumer of eclectic playlists on Spotify. Nayonika is a board member of Youth Action NSW and an advisor for the Black Dog Institute, Sydney University Brain and Mind Centre and the mental health organisation BEING.
Team 30s: Bella Brennan is a Sydney-based writer and editor with over a decade of experience in women’s media. She is passionate about real and raw storytelling, with a special interest in normalising conversations around grief and parenting. Her work has been published in outlets like Sunday Life, body+soul and Mamamia.
Team 40s: Amal Awad is a writer, director and performer. She has contributed to such publications as The Guardian and Frankie, and has presented for ABC Radio National. She has worked on several film and television projects and is the author of eight books, both fiction and non-fiction. Her latest novel, Bitter & Sweet, was voted into Better Reading's Top 100 for 2024.
Team 50s: Cat Pinfold’s mission is to support professional women to rediscover their innate wisdom and power, reshaping themselves and humanity in the process. She’s a science geek and learning nerd with a Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology and Genetics, a Post Grad Diploma in Genetics and a Graduate Diploma in Human Resources. She believes that when we get still and listen deeply, we can heal ourselves from the inside out.
Team 60s: Josephine Inkpin is an Anglican priest and Minister of Pitt Street Uniting Church. Once named a Dangerous Woman of Queensland, she is a former National Council of Churches in Australia leader and a Christian feminist historian who has taught in several universities as well as church placements.
Team 70s: Since retiring, Jane Marsden has taught Primary Ethics, worked as a Tai Chi instructor and Census Field Officer, and created and coordinated a float for the Mardi Gras 40th Anniversary. She swims, walks in the bush and leads educational tours around Australia.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Jen Ward. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.
THE BERESFORD
354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Melbourne - Nevertheless, She Persisted: Stories of Resistance, Resilience, and Revolution
This month, we're shining a spotlight on stories of sheer determination in the face of all odds. Whether it's personal challenges or navigating the political landscape, we're diving deep into tales of persistence. Expect to hear about those moments where persistence paid off big time, or maybe even a hilarious take on a situation where persistence probably wasn't the best idea. Join us as we celebrate the unstoppable courage and grit of women from all corners of the globe.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Tamala Shelton is a Bundjalung (northern New South Wales) and Lama Lama (far north Queensland) actor, audiobook narrator, writer and spoken word artist based in Naarm (Melbourne). She has worked in film, television and theatre for over twelve years and recently began her journey as a spoken word performer. Tamala has narrated over thirty audiobooks for companies including Penguin, Bolinda and Audible, the majority written by First Nations authors.
Team 30s: Caroline Kell is a proud sovereign Mbarbrum woman whose family hails from far north Queensland, but she was born and raised in Melbourne/Naarm on Kulin Lands. A TedX speaker, qualified counsellor and coach, consultant, podcaster and writer, Caroline passionately champions the well-being of Aboriginal people, helping to improve outcomes in mental health, justice, community engagement and Treaties. When she's not working with her community, she loves spending time on Country and prioritising collective liberation, rest and joy.
Team 40s: Karen Pickering is a feminist writer and organiser. Her work includes the feminist talk show Cherchez La Femme, the Girls On Film Festival, and the books About Bloody Time and Doing It. Her next book, The Mother of All Shocks, examines the impact of new motherhood and will be published by Pantera Press. She’s a proud single mum and sole carer, late diagnosis neurodivergent, and frequently erased bisexual who wants to make the world better for her son, herself and everyone else.
Team50s: Karen Garton supports women to have confidence in their voices. She’s a WomanSpeak Circle Leader, the host of Story Nights (an open-mic storytelling event for women), a retreat convenor and author. She shares her story of childhood sexual abuse to disrupt the stigma and taboo too often associated with the topic.
Team 60s: Sara Timms is a storyteller who enjoys sharing stories about her many journeys, her love of cooking Middle Eastern food and the many small pleasures of life. Sara is a schoolteacher working in Special schools where she has a number of different roles that focus on student welfare.
Team 80s: Brigid Arthur is a Brigidine Sister who trained as a primary and secondary teacher. She both taught and was principal of schools for many years. Brigid is the joint coordinator of the Brigidine Asylum Seekers’ Project. She was awarded an AO in 2022.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Sydney - Nevertheless, She Persisted: Stories of Resistance, Resilience, and Revolution
This month, we're shining a spotlight on stories of sheer determination in the face of all odds. Whether it's personal challenges or navigating the political landscape, we're diving deep into tales of persistence. Expect to hear about those moments where persistence paid off big time, or maybe even a hilarious take on a situation where persistence probably wasn't the best idea. Join us as we celebrate the unstoppable courage and grit of women from all corners of the globe.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Varsha Yajman is an Indian-Australian climate and mental health advocate who organises for School Strike for Climate and the Australian Youth Climate Coalition. She hopes to amplify the voices of young South Asians affected by climate change and mental health issues through her writing and work with Sapna South Asian Climate Solidarity and the Butterfly Foundation.
Team 30s: Kristina Ross is an award-winning author with work spanning multiple disciplines as a writer and producer. A graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts and recipient of the Queensland Theatre’s Young Playwrights Award, she has worked as an actor for the Melbourne Theatre Company, Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre, the Artisan Collective and the ABC. In 2024 Kristina won the The Australian/Vogel's Award for her debut novel, First Year.
Team 40s: Dr Quah Ee Ling is a fire dragon feminist and Singaporean of Chinese-Hokkien and Indonesian-Peranakan heritage. Ee Ling is a Senior Lecturer and Convenor of Culture and Society at Western Sydney University and is writing her third book, Fire Dragon Feminism: Asian migrant women’s tales of migration, coloniality and racial capitalism (forthcoming with Bloomsbury).
Team 50s: Gabrielle Morrisey has been a sexologist and relationship expert for over 30 years. Her knowledge and experience as an academic, columnist and consultant spans helping those in abusive, coercively controlling, unhealthy and unhappy relationships to lives of freedom and fulfilment. Her own story is no exception.
Team 60s: Dr Pauline Manley. Dancer, academic, teacher and writer. Feminist, music lover and gardener. But most of all she is a survivor and a thriver. 'Burnished by life, I am a midlife woman doing what the hell she wants. If not now, when?' Pauline declares!
Team 70s: Maggie Hamilton is a writer and social researcher who gives regular talks and workshops and is a keen observer of social trends. Her books, published in over a dozen countries, include What Happens to Our Kids When We Fail to Grow Up?, What Men Don’t Talk About, What’s Happening to Our Girls? and What’s Happening to Our Boys?
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Jen Ward. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.
THE BERESFORD
354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Sydney - Coming of Age: Stories of Wising Up
Does getting older mean getting wiser? Or are there always lessons to learn, no matter how many candles are on the birthday cake? This month, join us for a night of stories all about growing up and the things we figure out along the way. Whether our performers feel like they grew up at sixteen or sixty, each storyteller in our intergenerational line-up brings a unique perspective on aging and growth. Come ready to laugh, to feel, to be inspired by the way we’re able to keep evolving, at any age.
Our performer line-up:
20s Grace Alvaras
Meet Grace, a dedicated musician hailing from Sydney. Currently in the pursuit of becoming a music therapist, she seamlessly blends her love for music with a deep commitment to mental well-being. Grace’s journey is a harmonious fusion of artistry and compassion, seeking to make a positive impact through the therapeutic power of music.
30s Eva Marinas
Eva Georgina Marie is a clinical psychologist, comedian, dancer and PhD candidate. It’s a strange combination of skills but also very handy. If she can’t help you find solutions to your problems, she will help you feel better about all the wrong decisions you’ve made because she has most probably made worse ones. And if that fails, she can cheer you up by helping you shake your booty.
40s Bonita Nutall
Bonita Nutall is a dynamic speaker and coach, passionate about self-leadership, strategic communication, storytelling and transformative change. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology and her background in journalism and TV presenting, she empowers individuals and teams to “Turn up the you,” fostering self-awareness, confidence and high performance.
50s Jane Tara
Jane Tara has published over a hundred books, including her latest novel, Tilda is Visible. She’s a daily meditator, a sucker for a rescue mutt and a front-row cheerleader for her two sons. She spent thirteen years overseas but, for now, is happily at home in Sydney.
60s Anna-Carin McNamara
Anna-Carin McNamara is founder of ANNA.CARIN home design, blending Scandinavian influences and natural materials with contemporary design. Originally from Sweden, she holds a Master's from the Royal College of Art and is author of Make a Home to Love, focusing on joy, order, and beauty in homemaking.
70s Christine Greenough
Christine Greenough is an Actor/Director/Producer with over 40 years experience in theatre, film and TV. She has studied at Maggie Haber studios and with Howard Fine in LA and Australia. She is a stand-up storyteller who has performed throughout Australia, Asia and the US. Christine loves all genres of storytelling and has appeared in all venues, from pubs to main stage
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Jen Ward. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.
THE BERESFORD
354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Melbourne - Coming of Age: Stories of Wising Up
Join us this June for an unforgettable evening as Generation Women presents: 'Coming of Age: Stories of Wising Up'. Delve into the timeless theme of aging as our esteemed storytellers take the stage. Are we truly getting wiser as we grow older? Find the answer in this heartfelt celebration of female voices across generations. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and uplifted as we explore tales that challenge norms and inspire change. Don’t miss out on being a part of this empowering event!
Our performer line-up:
20s Esmé Louise James
Esmé Louise James is creator of the social media series #Kinky History, which has amassed 3.5 million followers across all platforms. She is author of Kinky History: The stories of our intimate lives, past and present and host of the top-rated podcast Kinky History. Esmé was named one of the Top 30 Emerging Writers by SBS Australia, a Rising Star Alumni by the University of Melbourne and received an AACTA nomination for Best Digital Creator.
30s Rebecca Willink
Rebecca Willink is a mum, special education teacher and founder of Make the Space, a movement committed to inclusion and greater representation of women of colour in Australia. Her petition for supermarkets to begin stocking make-up for dark skin tones, with support from the public and the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission, led to Coles and Woolworths introducing a new range of shades for the first time.
40s Emma Fulu
Dr Emma Fulu is a feminist activist, founder and CEO of the Equality Institute, and leading expert on gender-based violence, appearing widely across the media, including on CNN, the BBC and Q+A. She is the author of Domestic Violence in Asia and is currently writing a memoir. She lives in Naarm (Melbourne) with her three children.
50s Kerry Pietrobon
Kerry Pietrobon is a vibrant, silver-haired fashion designer who strives to design pieces that make women feel powerful and confident. As a member of the Peripausers, Kerry advocates for women's health, challenging silence and sparking change. Committed to authenticity and kindness, she shares her life stories in the hope of inspiring and helping others feel less alone.
60s Cherie Scott
Cherie Scott, aka ‘Chez’, is a celebrant, Certified NVC Trainer, storyteller and host of Story Wise Women. For her, empathy and compassion are crucial, learnable skills much required in today’s world. Cherie loves the circular economy and supporting people in their journey of Advance Care Planning. Travel, trees, dancing and the beach are her bliss.
70s Kathleen Mary Fallon
Kathleen Mary Fallon is an award-winning writer and academic. Her film Call MeMum won several AFI awards and was short-listed for a NSW Premier’s Award and an AWGIE. She has written for theatre and opera, has a PhD and has worked as a creative writing lecturer at the University of Melbourne, a book editor and a special education teacher
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Wollongong - Coming of Age: Stories of Wising Up
Join us this June for an unforgettable evening as Generation Women presents: 'Coming of Age: Stories of Wising Up'. Delve into the timeless theme of aging as our esteemed storytellers take the stage. Are we truly getting wiser as we grow older? Find the answer in this heartfelt celebration of female voices across generations. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and uplifted as we explore tales that challenge norms and inspire change. Don’t miss out on being a part of this empowering event!
Our performer line-up:
Team20s: Holly Trenaman is an emerging writer/producer interested in making comedic and light-hearted content for children and adults. In 2020, she graduated from AFTRS with a Bachelor of Production, and a Masters in Creative Writing at UTS in 2024. Her first short film, Dating Violet, a surf drama about her upbringing in Wollongong, premiered at Flickerfest 2022.
Team30s: Emma Elder finds joy in capturing life's precious moments. Emma has a constant passion for visual arts, with decades of work in ink, oil, painting, drawing, graphic design and has recently started her persual of a photography career. She spends her life as a fierce advocate for love, play and the beauty of everyday moments.
Team40s: Susie Fagan is a mum of 2 girls however is still learning to grow up herself. Some people train for marathons as a way to challenge themselves as they get older, but the thought of exercising for that long SCARES THE BEJAWS out of her, so she'd rather take on things like Generation Women. Plus it's a way to escape her kids and husband for a few hours. She's also done some stand up comedy and spoken word poetry slams - after all, it's cheaper than therapy with a much shorter wait time for an appointment.
Team50s: Sylvina Bel from Argentina" landed in Australia with her backpack filled with years of drama, singing, dancing, and even the fine art of stand-up comedy. Her one-of-a-kind perspective sets her apart – a fiery spirit from the heart of a third-world nation, now navigating the laid-back waters of Oz. It's like bringing a blend of Diego Maradona's passion into the world of Crocodile Dundee's, a collision of planets that is both delightful and captivating. That's the Sylvina experience in a nutshell.
Team 60s: Nerine Lynch, 67 years old, has had one marriage, three careers and lived in four different states and in ten different homes. She boasts a life rich in experiences, from a long stint in the Public Service to owning a horse riding school. Now, in her current role as a part-time community carer, she relishes the chance to continue making a difference. When not at work, she’s an avid traveller.
Team 70s: Aviva Sheb’a. Trail-blazing performative memoirist, painter, innovator of Vocal Dance, speaker, Aviva Sheb’a (pronounced Sheb-aaah), was born to dance, to express through the arts, to travel. Born in the Year of the Water Dragon, precisely at midnight between two days, and on a cusp, one minute into Gemini, what else could you expect!
Hosted by Shane Ladymoon. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.
THE BUILDERS
61 CHURCH STREET, WOLLONGONG NSW 2500
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Sydney - Sydney Stories
Sydney: The Harbour City. From its stunning beaches to its iconic landmarks, there's something magical about this place. This May, we're excited to bring together a bunch of storytellers who truly get what Sydney is all about. Get ready for an evening of real stories that capture the essence of our city. Come join us for a night of laughs, heartwarming moments, and a whole lot of Sydney spirit!
Our performer line-up:
Team20s: Lucy Henderson is an up-and-coming comedian who recently returned from the debut tour of her show Comedy Cluedo, which sold out in Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne. She looks forward to representing team 20s and recounting some hilarious stories about her life!
Team 30s: Divya Vaman is a writer, actor, stand-up comedian and now storyteller. Her comedy material touches on her childhood, indian family members and her adult life in the big city. She has written and performed in comedy sketches that are accessible on her YouTube Channel, Divya Vaman. You can catch her at a gig in Sydney sometime.
Team 40s: Loz Booth is a dynamic actor, content creator, aspiring screenwriter and advocate for inclusivity who passionately champions diversity in the Australian arts scene. Her mission is to shatter stereotypes, open minds, educate and tackle tough topics with love and humour.
Team 50s: Nicole Graham is a property buyer for people who want to avoid the limelight. In her spare time, she helps small charities find volunteers; serves on the management committee of Lillian Howell Project, a refuge for girls; and is an urban beekeeper. She also spends quite a bit of time trying to embarrass her children and is a collector of poo stories. (Poo is always funny.)
Team 60s: Gayle Kennedy is a member of the Wongaiibon clan of South West NSW. Gayle has published 13 books, including her book of poetry Koori Girl Goes Shoppin’, which was shortlisted for the David Uniapon Award. Gayle went on to win the award in 2006 with her book Me, Antman & Fleabag, which was also shortlisted for a Victorian Premier’s Literary Award and a Deadly Award. Gayle has presented at the Sydney Writers Festival, Brisbane Writers Festival, Wordstorm, local NAIDOC events and more.
Team 70s: Libby Darlison is a policy advisor and former academic driven by a passion for social justice and gender equality. She is founder of the Miller Group, a consultancy that has been guiding not-for-profit community services for 30 years in such areas as housing, disability and domestic violence. Libby was the first woman to sit on the Australian Institute of Sport Board and the Australian Sports Commission, and her fight for the rights of girls to play sport and be in control of their bodies led to international work with the UN, UNESCO and the International Olympic Committee.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Jen Ward. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.
THE BERESFORD
354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Melbourne - Melbourne Stories
Melbourne: The city of culture, coffee, and creativity. From its laneways to its vibrant arts scene, there's nowhere quite like it. This May, we're thrilled to showcase a diverse group of storytellers who embody the spirit of Melbourne. Get ready for an evening of authentic stories that reflect the heart and soul of our beloved city. Join us for a night of laughter, inspiration, and a whole lot of Melbourne magic!
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Skye Cusack is an emerging Dulgubarra-Yidinji creative writer. But this doesn’t mean that she’s new to writing – in fact, she’s been a copywriter for over eleven years. In February 2023 she founded her own copywriting and marketing agency, BluSkye Marketing. You may see her around Naarm, performing yarns that will make you laugh, cry and wonder why she’s admitting to these things in front of a live audience. She is currently trying to publish her first novel, which is a YA fictional work that speaks about mental health, trauma, being First Nations, and experiencing fatphobia in the medical industry.
Team 30s: Daizy Maan is a Punjabi Australian founder, advocate and speaker. Her work focuses on empowering diverse women. She is the founder of Australian South Asian Centre - an organisation dedicated to empowering women founders, creatives and professionals. Most recently she produced and performed in Brown Women Comedy at Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Team 40s: Jade McKenzie is a passionate entrepreneur and one half of Zea, an Australian profit-for-purpose and certified B Corporation that is innovating clean pain relief and personal care. With a strong dedication to supporting not-for-profit organizations and women in business, she also mentors and coaches female business owners to create meaningful and enduring enterprises.
Team 50s: Lucy Best is an Australian-based British comedian, compére, writer and producer. She performs Stand Up Comedy, Cabaret, Music and Theatre around Australia and internationally. Lucy’s work regularly includes her hilarious hot takes on themes of feminism, mental health, social justice, sex positivity and gender and sexual diversity. Lucy only recently qualified for Team 50s, as she turned 50 in early May
Team 60s: Sunderai Felich is a multifaceted performer, writer, and speaker with a rich background in comedy, storytelling, and public speaking. From captivating audiences at The Moth StorySLAM to delivering insightful talks at national conferences, Sunderai's engaging performances are drawn from a wealth of personal experiences and diverse interests.
Team 70s: Sylvie Leber has worked in education, science, community, media, the performing and visual arts, most notably in the music industry. She's a human rights activist involved in setting up Victoria's first rape crisis centre, the Women's Theatre Group and RRR's Give Men-a-Pause show. Her song 'Intoxicated' is on the Brazen Hussies doco soundtrack.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Sydney - My Best Mistake: Stories of Wrongs That Went Right
Mistakes are inevitable, but sometimes a misstep can take us down the right path. This month, our talented ensemble of multigenerational performers will present true tales of life-changing moments born from a mistake, an error, a beautiful blunder. Expect stories of mishap that ended up being miraculous and tales of triumph over travesty. Sometimes, two wrongs can make a right! Join us in April, and enjoy an evening celebrating hard-won wisdom and unexpected luck.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Maddie King is a 23-year-old cancer survivor living in Sydney’s Inner West. She juggles jobs in marketing, instructing Pilates and running a small business creating headscarves for cancer patients, and is passionate about cancer research and advocacy.
Team 30s: Bec Melrose is an award-winning writer and comedian. Since winning Australia’s biggest comedy competition, RAW Comedy, Bec has been touring the country, working with and opening for her comedy idols like Wil Anderson. Bec is a regular on ABC radio and TV, and her writing credits include Gruen, The Weekly and Question Everything.
Team 40s: Mawunyo Gbogbo is an ABC journalist specialising in popular culture and the author of Hip Hop & Hymns. Published by Penguin Random House, Hip Hop & Hymns was described by Books+Publishing as ‘a beautiful and heart-wrenching memoir’.
Team 50s: Jane Riley is a retired private investigator who recently graduated in Positive Psychology as well as receiving a Diploma in Health and Wellbeing. Jane embraces a vibrant, addiction-free life and is launching into public speaking to shine a light on her story and help others also achieve happy and immensely fulfilling addiction-free lives. Jane resides in Tamworth and cares for her mother.
Team 60s: Sarah Stewart is a midwife, mother and wife of 40 years — and does comedy to get away from them all. She has had sold out shows at the Canberra Comedy Festival and was nominated for Best in Comedy at the 2023 Sydney Fringe Festival. Sarah is currently working on a solo show.
Team 70s: Kate Rowe. Pommy by birth, Aussie by choice, ageing lesbian feminist, 78er, clean and sober 45 years, childhood sexual abuse and rape survivor, travel adventurer, health and exercise nut, retired triathlete, ukulele player, tactless direct talker and all-round pain in the butt with a sense of humour.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Sarah Gaul. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.
THE BERESFORD
354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Melbourne - My Best Mistake: Stories of Wrongs That Went Right
Mistakes are inevitable, but sometimes a misstep can take us down the right path. This month, our talented ensemble of multigenerational performers will present true tales of life-changing moments born from a mistake, an error, a beautiful blunder. Expect stories of mishap that ended up being miraculous and tales of triumph over travesty. Sometimes, two wrongs can make a right! Join us in April and enjoy an evening celebrating hard-won wisdom and unexpected luck.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s - EVA MAY is a psychology student with a passion for travel, holistic health, wellness and mental health advocacy. As a self-confessed “energiser bunny”, when she’s not planning her next adventure, you’ll find her on a run, in the ocean, or on a coffee walk with her besties.
Team 30s - SOM PURI is a writer, a keynote speaker and an only child with a rich inner life. She recently spoke at TedxMornington, where she explored how being intentional about how we narrate, highlight and link the stories from our lives can help us create powerful personal narratives. If she had a superpower, it would be championing people to better express the diverse parts of their personality and identity, and tell their non-linear stories in aligned, memorable and impactful ways. She also runs a copywriting business where she works with brands to align their words to their brand voice, their community and their business goals.
Team 40s - JACKIE KATSIKIS is a lifelong traveller, learner and behavioural expert. She’s a scientist, facilitator and coach by education, intuitive and spiritual guide by journey. She takes a conscious approach to life blending the realms of spirituality and science with her real-world experiences to drive positive change in people’s lives.
Team 50s - SALLYANNE HARTNELL is award nominated podcaster and Relationship & Divorce Coach - supports clients feeling challenged in their relationship or marriage, navigating separation or divorce - she is the woman no-one wants to need. She is a fiercely proud single mother to two big-hearted, adventurous, young adults, and happiest sharing good food and conversation with the people she cares about most.
Team 60s - MARY SCOTT, With over three decades of experience, Mary is a seasoned Confidence Coach and Entrepreneur. Her expertise empowers individuals to reach their full potential. Recognized for her authenticity and wisdom, Mary inspires lasting change, guiding others to reclaim their power and thrive in their personal and professional lives
Team 70s- Irene Mooney’s passion has always been singing and acting and she has been a member of many local amateur theatre companies and groups. Irene began performing in plays and musical theatre in1966 (she played Meg in Brigadoon) and has never looked back! She has played the lead in many stage classics - Oklahoma, Carousel, South Pacific, Pyjama Game and The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Wollongong - My Best Mistake: Stories of Wrongs That Went Right (Copy)
This month, we're diving into "Throwing Caution to the Wind"! Get ready for daring adventures, bold choices, and unexpected twists. Join us for a night celebrating fearless women who embrace risks and live life to the fullest. if you're craving a fresh dose of excitement and adventure, don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind event. Grab your tickets now and get ready for a night of stories that'll leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on the world!
Our performer line-up: TBA
Hosted by Shane Ladymoon. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.
THE BUILDERS
61 CHURCH STREET, WOLLONGONG NSW 2500
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Melbourne - The M Words - Menstruation, Motherhood, Menopause.
Join us this month for a lively celebration of Women's History Month and International Women's Day with our event theme, 'The M Words - Menstruation, Motherhood, Menopause'. We're sharing stories about the ups and downs and everything in between when it comes to the moments that touch women's lives.
Our performer line-up:
TEAM 20S - Taylor Griffiths is a playwright, performer and director in improv and sketch comedy. She was recently nominated for Best Comedy at the 2023 Melbourne Fringe Festival and debuted her solo show 'No Thoughts' at The Malthouse Theatre during the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Team 30s - Kit Richards is a comedian and musician from Naarm/Melbourne. She has written and performed 3 solo shows for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and is mounting her 4th in 2024. She has written for TV Programs Hard Quiz and The 1% Club.
Team 40s - Nandita Chakraborty, an Indian-Australian author, disability advocate, and keynote speaker, was born in Kolkata, India. She overcame a traumatic brain injury from a rock climbing accident to become a best-selling author, winning numerous awards for her work. Currently based in Melbourne, she continues to inspire through her writing and advocacy efforts.
Team 50s - Dr Celia Torres-Villanueva leads parallel lives across multiple universes. She juggles careers from molecular immunologist to lawyer, board director to social entrepreneur, and more. With a PhD in molecular genetics, she's a lawyer and founder of a social enterprise empowering women of color. Across three countries, she's a lawyer in Australia and the Philippines, raising three children while pursuing her dreams. Now, with two fur babies, she dreams of more parallel universes yet to explore.
Team 60s - Glenna Thomson. After a successful corporate career, Glen moved to a 500-acre cattle property and blueberry orchard in northeast Victoria. She’s a mother and grandmother. In her 60s she’s published three novels with Penguin Random House. The latest novel is titled Gone, and was released last month.
Team 70s - Anita Roleff, decided to pursue art at the age of nine. She graduated from Swinburne Art School in 1961. In addition to raising six children, she continued her artistic journey, exhibiting solo, teaching various crafts, and joining artistic societies. She co-designed and published "Southern Star - Mercedes-Benz in Australia" with her husband, Paul.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Sydney - The M Words - Menstruation, Motherhood, Menopause.
Join us this month for a lively celebration of Women's History Month and International Women's Day with our event theme, 'The M Words - Menstruation, Motherhood, Menopause'. We're sharing stories about the ups and downs and everything in between when it comes to the moments that touch women's lives.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s - Melanie Philippou is a transdisciplinary communicator, passionate about solving complex challenges to drive meaningful change. Wearing many hats, she is a strategist at a creative agency, co-founder of a menstrual health education organization, Peried, and, a lived experience storyteller for youth mental health charity, batyr.
Team 30s - Oyelola Oyetunji is a writer, empath, matcha lover, ex-consultant and gratitude advocate. After a career in financial services consulting, Oyelola stumbled into the world of copywriting. No bruises, no regrets. Through her copywriting business, Phrased with Purpose, she helps sow or grow purpose-driven businesses using words rooted in empathy.
Team 40s - Abang Anade Othow is an educator, a renowned national ambassador for education and refugee council of Australia, and a strong advocate. She has made significant contributions to the refugee and wider community, serving as an ambassador for organizations such as Red Cross and Oasis Africa. As a current board member for the asylum seekers centre and a public speaker, she amplifies the voices of the marginalised. Fluent in four languages, with academic milestones in Master of Teaching, Bachelor of Arts, and a Diploma of Business. She is currently authoring her memoir.
Team 50s - Lou Johnson. Over three decades in book publishing, and now as the Co-founder of Key People Literary Management, Lou has always been driven by the power of stories to connect us. When her career abruptly shifted gears it prompted her to start sharing her own stories to neutralise stigma and shift the dial on gender norms.
Team 60s - Sharon Wall. After working in Gerontology and sitting at the feet of Elders for 45 years, Sharon is learning that Gerontologists do not retire, they just learn more in the first person about their craft. Sharon has a side kick love warrior role using her voice when others have lost theirs .
Team 70s - Sylvia Kinder, Born in Liverpool UK 1948. Looking for adventure, she migrated to Australia in 1967. Sylvia has worked as a saleswoman, barmaid, nurse, primary, secondary, TAFE, and University teacher. She has been a feminist since 1972, now retired but still active in the Women’s and Lesbian Rights Movement.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Sarah Gaul. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.
THE BERESFORD
354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Melbourne - It's Funny You Ask: Stories of Life's Most Hilarious Moments
If laughter really is the best medicine, then we definitely have a healing evening planned. This February, we’re bringing “It's Funny You Ask: Stories of Life's Most Hilarious Moments,” to Howler, where we’ll share the tales that keep us laughing well after the fact. From the awkward to the absurd, you can expect hilarious stories told by our dynamic community of multigenerational storytellers. Join us Wednesday, February 28th in Melbourne!
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Taylah Whelan is a writer and comedian. In 2023 she premiered her first solo comedy show A Pleasure to Have in Class at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Taylah performs stand up comedy multiple nights, weekly at comedy clubs across Melbourne. In 2024 she will return to MICF with a brand new show, this time with her dear friend and comedy partner Helena Hogan by her side.
Team 30s: Lena Moon has been working in Film and TV in various capacities for over a decade. A writer chameleon; her TV writing credits are varied in content, from adult skewed animated series YOLO: Crystal Fantasy (Adult Swim) to children’s sketch comedy series, Definitely Not News (ABC Me), as well as working in the script department of projects such as Thank God You’re Here, Utopia, Aunty Donna’s Coffee Cafe and Aunty Donna's Big Old House of Fun.
Team 40s: Taku Mbudzi is an award-winning filmmaker, writer, and podcaster. When she's not writing or teaching, she loves performing. Her debut solo comedy show Shine My Light is a celebration of womanhood through humour, and plays at Melbourne’s La Mama Theatre in the week of International Women’s Day, 6-10 March 2024.
Team 50s: Mira Gladovic is the mistress of reinvention. After a science degree, she changed paths a number of times working in corporate, small business, entrepreneurship, disability before returning to her nerd roots as a digital and e-commerce professional. She contributed to her own generation of women by raising three daughters as a single mum.
Team 60s: Loretta Smith is a writer, committed feminist and environmental activist. Her best-selling biography, A Spanner in the Works: The extraordinary story of Alice Anderson and Australia’s first all-girl garage, was published in 2019 by Hachette. Her memoir, Corpus in Extremis will be released in mid 2024 by Spinifex
Team 70s: Jude Marshall. Married for 63 years with four children, I balanced family life with education and work. After raising my kids, I pursued higher education, teaching senior English until retirement. I then coached students and worked in palliative care. Now, my husband and I enjoy traveling the outback and spending time with family.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Sydney - It's Funny You Ask: Stories of Life's Most Hilarious Moments
If laughter really is the best medicine, then we definitely have a healing evening planned. This February, we’re bringing “It's Funny You Ask: Stories of Life's Most Hilarious Moments,” to the Beresford, where we’ll share the tales that keep us laughing well after the fact. From the awkward to the absurd, you can expect hilarious stories told by our dynamic community of multigenerational storytellers. Join us Wednesday, February 21st in Sydney!
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Grace Valerie-Lynette is a multidisciplinary artist and disability advocate. She works as a Podcast Development Producer at Storyglass/FremantleMedia, and recently won the Rising Star Award at the Australian Podcast Awards. In 2023 she completed a 6-month paid mentorship with the Sydney Opera House on musical writing and development.
Team 30s: Samantha Bun is a self love & confidence coach and pole dance instructor who is all about empowering other women to boldly and confidently be free to express their limitless selves. She helps women embrace their bodies and sensuality in safe spaces. Her passion is spreading love, joy and positivity everywhere she goes!
Team 40s: Kylie Heart has been immersed in the entertainment industry as a performing artist for over 26 years as a singer, actor, voice artist, director, writer and producer for stage and screen. Kylie is a graduate of Actors Centre Australia and recently graduated from NIDA with a Masters of Fine Arts in Cultural Leadership. Lady K Heart is Kylie’s new creation set to enter the world and spread LOVE and KINDNESS in many forms.
Team 50s: Justine Williams is the radiant force behind two award-winning companies dedicated to spreading joy and magic: The Feel Good Studio and Hyp Little Fairy Tales. As a government accredited Clinical Hypnotherapist specialising in supporting those with anxiety, Justine's mission is clear: to guide women and children through life's challenges with grace, resilience, courage, and genuine compassion. And being a survivor, Justine also brings that one special quality to the table that can't be bought or taught: Empathy.
Team 60s: Liz Wilson, a former nurse who collaborated to establish Bannister In Home care and other care services in Sydney. Now a Self taught artist, living small and dreaming big her passions are painting, swimming, singing and being in nature. Settled beside the rainforest outside the hippie village of Nimbin, her 2023 harvest was 2 new knees and launching her website “Liz Wilson Art Work”. Her work has been shown locally, regionally and in Brisbane.
Team 70s: Menaka Cooke came to Australia in 1973, became a single parent and then educated herself to become an HR manager and later HR Director in her corporate career. As a result of her own experiences with sexism, racism and ageism she found her passion in retirement in feminist and ageist matters and advocating for victims of Domestic Violence. She has received awards from the Australian Human Resources Institute, PM’s Award for employing people with disabilities, a WCEI Australia Award for social contribution and The International Alliance of Women World of Difference Award. Her memoir ‘Monsoon Woman’ outlines her experiences as a migrant single parent who educated herself (getting two Masters degrees) and reached the C-Suite. She is also a newsreader on Radio2RPH and podcaster of the ‘Colours of Australia’ program.
Hosted by Mandy Nolan. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.
THE BERESFORD
354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016
DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM
Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.
Generation Women Melbourne - Plot Twist: Stories You Never Saw Coming
Sometimes, life throws you a curveball. In our last show for 2023, we invited our line-up to tell us stories of change. It might be a transformation they initiated, or a transition that happened to them. New paths can be invigorating and exciting, or confusing and downright scary. Regardless, the only constant in life is change, so this November, come hear a night of stories about forging your own path, wherever where that path takes you…
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Katha Villanueva is a recent University of Melbourne graduate, now a software engineer. In her spare time, she attempts to navigate adulthood and her own ever-changing passions. Casually, she is a writer, reader, artist, and just about anything creative. She has won and placed numerous writing competitions and hopes to fill the next chapters of her life with as much wonder as written in her stories.
Team 30s: Claire Tonti is a singer/songwriter, Matrescence activist & podcaster. Her debut album Matrescence released in February 2023 explores the process of becoming a mother - including themes of love, loss, overcoming birth trauma & mothering as a creative. She also hosts two podcasts Suggestible & TONTS. a series of in depth interviews with women & diverse voices including writers, activists, experts, thinkers & deeply feeling humans.
Team 40s: Emma McMillan is a former Dance and Drama teacher turned entrepreneur who loves a good story. Emma works as a copywriting coach and small business mentor, building writing confidence and capacity in others. Her long-running podcast ‘Not Just About Copy’ blends actionable marketing tips with insightful small business conversations.
Team 50s: Gamuchirai Goronga has 33 years of experience as a teacher, social worker, and senior manager in child protection across Australia, Zimbabwe and the UK. She was the Child Protection Director for Victoria's Central Highlands area until late 2022. Currently, she is a consultant and is pursuing a Professional Doctorate in Social Work at Latrobe University.
Team 60s: Sue Grieshaber is Professor of Early Childhood Education in the School of Education. Her research interests are informed by a range of critical, feminist, and feminist poststructural theories that address social justice and equity, and include early childhood curriculum, policy, pedagogies and families; women in higher education; and qualitative research approaches.
Team 70s: Anita Jawary is an artist, poet, short story writer, speaker and storyteller. She is also a fan of the writer Charles Dickens. When asked why she named her website, ‘The Dickensian Challenge’? Anita explained “Dickens wrote his novels in regular instalments, to a deadline. If we could live our lives in that way, remembering that we have a deadline, how much more productive might they be?”
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
Generation Women Sydney - Plot Twist: Stories You Never Saw Coming
Sometimes, life throws you a curveball. In our last show for 2023, we’ve invited our line-up to tell us stories of change. It might be a transformation they initiated, or a transition that happened to them. New paths can be invigorating and exciting, or confusing and downright scary. Regardless, the only constant in life is change, so this November, come hear a night of stories about forging your own path, wherever where that path takes you…
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Christina Zheng is like petrol station coffee, an unfiltered hot mess. She is also excelling at failing adulthood. Christina has performed at the Sydney Fringe Festival, Sydney Comedy Festival (supporting Jenny Tian and Pat Golamco). She is also a RAW Comedy NSW State Finalist.
Team 30s: Irene Nicola has performed in the cabaret space independently across Australia with her original one-woman shows, A Postmodern Striptease (2013-2017), Revenge, (2018) and multiple award-nominated Apocalypse Please (2019-2023). Irene was also a finalist in the Sydney Cabaret Competition (Sydney Cabaret Festival 2019) and performs regularly at Bamboozle Room's Talk and Tease.
Team 40s: Amanda Walsh is an author, teacher, and mental health advocate. Passionate about public Mother and Baby Units since her experience with postnatal psychosis, Amanda's book, 'A Mother’s Mind,' and her story of pain, discovery, and ultimately healing were featured on SBS's The Feed. Amanda lives with her husband and family in Sydney’s inner west.
Team 50s: Sonya Lovell, host of the podcast Dear Menopause regularly interviews experts and commentators in the fields of women’s health while challenging societal stigmas and taboos and advocating for better education and resources for women. A natural and passionate advocate for women’s rights and equity, the irony that her school reports stated “talks too much” is not lost on her!
Team 60s: Jenna Price is a visiting fellow at the Australian National University and a Sydney Morning Herald and Canberra Times columnist who has worked as a journalist for 40 years. She has a PhD in political sociology. She's the child of two refugees who were Holocaust survivors. Married, three adult kids. One of the cofounders of Destroy the Joint, which runs the Counting Dead Women campaign.
Team 70s: Kate Rowe. Pommy by birth, Aussie by choice, ageing lesbian feminist, 78er, clean and sober 45 years, childhood sexual abuse and rape survivor, travel adventurer, health and exercise nut, retired triathlete, ukulele player, tactless direct talker and all-round pain in the butt with a sense of humour.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Louise James Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
Generation Women Melbourne: Being My Own Damn Hero
We don’t need another hero—we’re already looking at one in the mirror. This October, we bring you stories of the time we inspired ourselves. Stories of courage and of self-care. Of audacity and action. These six true tales from our multigenerational line-up will inspire you, surprise you, and entertain us all. Join us in community at the iconic Howler for a life-affirming evening that’ll leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on the world!
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Jacklyn Foster. For almost three years, Jacklyn has worked as a full-time artist from Mildura, regional Victoria, wearing multiple hats as an artist mentor, art teacher, and content creator as well as receiving recognition as an emerging talent after leaving a Health Degree early, and rediscovering her childhood dream of becoming an artist again. She enjoys reading, traveling and baking.
Team 30s: Anneliz Marie Erese is an award-winning writer of short fiction and poetry. She was named the 2023 Melbourne Scholar at the Faber Writing Academy. She is also one of the recipients of the Hot Desk Fellowship at The Wheeler Centre where she is at work on her first novel.
Team 40s: Nelly Thomas is a multi-talented, award-winning Australian comedian and author. She is well-known for her media commentary, speaking and MCing. Nelly is a regular guest on ABC Melbourne Radio, Radio National, News Breakfast and elsewhere. She was listed as one of Australia’s “most innovative thinkers” in The Age and was featured on the ABC’s Big Ideas: The Smartest Stuff on TV, Radio and Online. Her podcasts The Single Life of Us and Dear Nelly: sex, relationships and dating from the other side of 40 are incredibly popular. Nelly lives in Melbourne with her two daughters and a grumpy poodle.
Team 50s: Jane Riley is a former Private Investigator who has recently achieved Diplomas in Positive Psychology and Health/Wellbeing. Jane Embraces a vibrant alcohol-free life and finds immense fulfilment in her role as a dedicated caregiver to her cherished mother, a true testament to her compassionate spirit.
Team 60s: Amanda Hampson is the author of eight novels published by Penguin, each of which champions resourceful older women. Her recent release, The Tea Ladies, is set in Sydney’s fashion industry in 1965, and is currently a top ten bestselling Australian novel.
Team 80s: Maxine Barry is an octogenarian trailblazer who defies stereotypes. Passionate about progressive causes, she champions the Voice and environmental stewardship, debunking notions of generational apathy. Maxine exemplifies a forward-thinking legacy.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
Generation Women Sydney: Being My Own Damn Hero
We don’t need another hero—we’re already looking at one in the mirror. This October, we bring you stories of the time we inspired ourselves. Stories of courage and of self-care. Of audacity and action. These six true tales from our multigenerational line-up will inspire you, surprise you, and entertain us all. Join us in community at the iconic Beresford for a life-affirming evening that’ll leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on the world!
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Tiff Ng is passionate about empowering people to tell their stories. As the Founder and Chief Storyteller of The Social Story, she helps purpose-driven businesses to share their impact on social media and enable every person to find the strength in their own stories.
Team 30s: Jen Ward is a writer, comic, procrastinator, black belt in Karate, Family Feud auditionee and garlic bread aficionado. She uses comedy to navigate complexities of life, and tries to see the lighter side. Jen is intensely proud of her ‘willpower’ but not so much her ‘won’t’ power especially around free samples.
Team 40s: Rachel Clissold is the co-creator of "The Rising Activation Deck," which draws from personal journeys and is infused with joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments. Through The Rising Activation Deck, she empowers individuals to discover untapped depths of their souls and step into their true potential.
Team 50s: Katrina Fox told other people’s stories for more than 20 years as a journalist. Now she helps business leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers find, craft and share stories to inspire, influence and impact their audiences through strategic storytelling. A glitter-loving disco queen, she’s just starting to tell her own stories.
Team 60s: Terri Ayliffe is an artist, photographer and a community mentor. She also writes a monthly column on mental health for a local publication. The girl, who grew up in Mt Druitt on the financial and cultural edge of Sydney now lives on the Grand Pacific drive south of Sydney looking out over the blue pacific. She shares her coastal home with her Husband, a lifetime collection of books, musical instrument, art and a dog named Nikita. Terri has two daughters and two grandchildren. If she is not spending time with them, she is in her studio, painting, writing or sitting quietly watching the horizon as she lets her unburdened child’s mind imagine all sorts of wonderful things.
Team 70s: Tiang Nee Lim. Malaysian Chinese came to Sydney in 1972. One of 16 children. Qualifications in health, education, Psychology, Business, cooking and dementia care. Eclectic professions. 1991, on Minister Chadwick’s advisory committee on CALD Women’s issues. 1992, established TAFE’s 1st ELICOS Centre for international students. Grandmother, stand-up comedian and writer featured in the film SUKA, Singaporean play BOOM@ KXT BROADWAY and coconutface comedy Who Invented Moussaka.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Sarah Gaul and Christine Ryan. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
Generation Women Melbourne: The Skin I'm In
As women, we experience a complicated, life-long relationship with our bodies. Our society has strict if often unspoken guidelines as to how a woman must present herself and monitor her body. Weight is a constant source of anxiety for many of us as walk the tightrope of pleasure and discipline in a world where thin privilege and fat prejudice is undeniable. The colour of our skin affects so much of our experience and identity, often coming with an entire universe of preconceived notions. Some of us will have children, where the biological functions of the body reign supreme. All of us are aging, transforming our skin with brushstrokes of wrinkles, another strange experience we must face in the mirror every single day.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Sophie Hardy is a 21 year-old aspiring film-maker. Throughout her teenage years, Sophie starred in the soap opera 'Neighbours' as Lacy Lane and has partaken in several other acting and modelling roles. Sophie cares very strongly for women's rights and hopes to make films depicting the messages she is most passionate about one day.
Team 30s: Ana Uribe (she/her) was born in the lands of the Muiscas, Colombia, travelled parts of the world since the age of 11 and now lives on Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung country. She works as a trauma-informed somatic therapist, educator and embodiment facilitator and specializes in mental health, trauma healing and plant medicine integration. Ana is on a mission to create safer spaces in our bodies and out in the world.
Team 40s: Anna Manuel is a children’s storyteller, voiceover narrator and educator. She jazzes up children’s programs with stories to keep children and adults alike curious, engaged and creative. She continues to navigate the intricate influence of her own skin - colour, smell and shape - on the fascinating twists of her life's path.
Team 50s: Tania Dalton is a 55-year-old post-menopausal woman, on a mission to empower others. With nearly 30 years as a Personal Trainer and recent accreditation as a Health Coach, she is driven by her father's early passing. Tania is dedicated to unraveling the secrets of aging well and wants to spread awareness about the transformative changes post-menopause.
Team 60s: Jacinta Halloran is a novelist, family therapist and medical doctor who believes wholeheartedly in the power of words – both written and spoken – to transform, heal and deepen our understanding of each other. A former Board member of the Stella Prize, her latest novel is RESISTANCE (Text Publishing, 2023).
Team 70s: Suzanne McCourt’s debut novel, The Lost Child, (Text Publishing) was a finalist in the 2015 Miles Franklin Award. Her latest novel, The Tulip Tree, begins in Ukraine as Russia invades 100 years ago. She is currently completing a short story collection that includes her prize-winning novella, The Last Taboo. Suzanne introduced the Story Dogs Literacy Program into Victorian primary schools and has also published a series of gift books on old dogs. She has recently taken up swimming. In the bay. In winter. Without a wetsuit.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
Generation Women Sydney: The Skin I'm In
As women, we experience a complicated, life-long relationship with our bodies. Our society has strict if often unspoken guidelines as to how a woman must present herself and monitor her body. Weight is a constant source of anxiety for many of us as walk the tightrope of pleasure and discipline in a world where thin privilege and fat prejudice is undeniable. The colour of our skin affects so much of our experience and identity, often coming with an entire universe of preconceived notions. Some of us will have children, where the biological functions of the body reign supreme. All of us are aging, transforming our skin with brushstrokes of wrinkles, another strange experience we must face in the mirror every single day.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Stephanie Ho is an avid adventurer and university student. In 2022, bored by the international travel restrictions imposed by COVID-19, she decided to run from Canberra to Sydney to raise funds for a school in rural Nepal which she once taught at. In May 2023 she completed a goal that was years in the making. She skied across Greenland, covering 580km over 29 days
Team 30s: Eva Georgina Marie is a clinical psychologist, comedian, and dancer. It’s a strange combination of skills but it’s also very handy. If she can’t help you find solutions to your problems, she will help you feel better about all the wrong decisions that you’ve made because she has most probably made worse decisions than you have. And if that fails, she can always cheer you up by helping you shake your booty. She’s also a PhD candidate and an author.
Team 40s: Suzanne Waldron is a behaviorist, humanitarian, and curator. She's an ambassador for R U OK?, Nakuru Hope, the founder of 5 Women, and Board director of Soundfair. Suzanne has been nominated for many incredible awards, and mostly comes second! Fairness drives her, creativity and love sustain her.
Team 50s: Dr. Kate Forsyth is an award-winning novelist, poet, and storyteller. Her books include "The Crimson Thread," a reimagining of ‘The Minotaur in the Labyrinth’ myth set in Crete during World War II, and "Bitter Greens," a retelling of ‘Rapunzel’ which won the 2015 American Library Association award for Best Historical Fiction.
Team 60s: Kiran Shah was born and raised in Singapore. She's had a varied career as a social worker and early childhood educator, having lived and worked in the U.S., Japan, and Sri Lanka. Kiran became a professional storyteller 20 years ago, performing for all age groups and conducting workshops to teach storytelling. She's attended storytelling festivals in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, and Iran. When she's not storytelling, she enjoys growing vegetables and herbs in her garden in the Blue Mountains, a place she now calls home.
Team 70s: Noelene Turton. At 70, this dynamic doctor took a bold leap into animation, pausing her practice for a semester. An aspiring children's Sci-Fi author, she's wrapped up a first draft. Her filmmaking flair shone with a lauded feature at Houston International Film Festival, though she'll admit, many shorts had their own tales to tell.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Louise James, Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
Generation Women Sydney: Desperate Times, Desperate Measures: Stories of Drastic Action.
This month, our multi-generational line-up share outrageous, funny, and jaw-dropping tales of dramatic action.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Sarah Carroll is an award winning Pasifika queer and neurodiverse writer, performer and producer working on Dharug Land (Western Sydney). Sarah has two successful one woman shows under her belt, ‘Cherry’ (Sydney Fringe Award Winners and Hollywood Fringe Nominee) and ‘Unkissed’ (Developed with Shopfront – ArtsLab). They also run their own production company Sour Cherry Productions.
Team30s: Sarah Liz King is an accredited Exercise Physiologist and Health Coach. Sarah is passionate about nourishing the body and mind with scientific facts and hosts The Holistic Health Radio podcast.
Team40s: Sophie Phan. Growing up the eldest female child in the shadow of her well-educated, success-driven family, Sophie was over-managed, overlooked and assumed of underachieving. When she tired of being told she was too quiet and timid, Sophie embarked on a drastic journey to take back her own life.
Team50s: Nathy Gaffney is a performance coach, speaker and podcaster. Her podcast ‘Suck it & See’ explores life’s messy lessons through the lenses of curiosity, hope and humour. Her early professional years were spent performing – singing and dancing on stage and screen (and on top of the occasional table!) She now coaches others on how to build presence and confidence, and at 59 proudly declares herself ‘A Work in Progress’.
Team60s: Dr Rebecca Johinke is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Discipline of English at the University of Sydney. She is a feminist who loves action films, going to the gym, and Wordle. As someone who has only recently learned to cook, she makes a mean sausage roll.
Team70s: Beverly Baker has been instrumental in the establishment and running of a number of charities, notably the FSHD Global Research Foundation. Bev is a committed feminist. She is current CEO of the Aboriginal Education Council. Beverly brings her energy and enthusiasm to assisting older women retain their dignity and relevance in a society that too easily marginalises them. Beverly is currently Chair of the Board for the Older Women's Network in NSW.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
Generation Women Melbourne: Desperate Times, Desperate Measures: Stories of Drastic Action.
This month, our multi-generational line-up share outrageous, funny, and jaw-dropping tales of dramatic action.
Our performer line up:
Team 20s: Vish Pillai is a young Indian woman who embarked on an exciting journey to Australia at 18 to pursue her dreams in chemical engineering. However, destiny had other plans for her. Today, she is a proud business owner, running a delightful bakery in Elwood. She's truly passionate about her work and believes in spreading joy through her acts of service. Interacting with people is her happy place, and she loves creating wonderful memories through her delectable treats.
Team 30s: Ellen Mahoney is a fierce and fearless woman in her thirties. As a writer and comedian, Ellen has honed her craft to combine wit, satire, and a keen feminist perspective into her work. Her life's journey has shaped her unique viewpoint, surrounded by the strength and resilience of women.
Team 40s: Iolanthe Gabrie is a sought-after digital marketing authority, business mentor, speaker and author with a focus on the startup space. Iolanthe shares her passion and expertise for business via her social media agency Ruby Assembly and on her podcast, Sell Less. Mean More.
Team 50s: Gayelene Carbis is an award-winning Australian/Irish/Cornish/Chinese writer of poetry, prose and plays. Her first book of poetry Anecdotal Evidence (Five Islands Press) was awarded Finalist in the 2019 International Book Awards for Poetry. Recent awards/shortlistings include: first prize in the My Brother Jack Poetry Award; finalist in the Bruce Dawe Poetry Prize; and finalist in the Woorilla Poetry Awards (Commended).
Team 60s: Donna Ward has been a social worker, psychotherapist, editor and publisher. She advocates for single women without children, and she is published in the Griffith Review, Westerly, Southerly and Island Magazines, Huffington Post, and The Big Issue. Her memoir is, She I Dare Not Name: A Spinster’s Meditations on Life.
Team 70s: Jane Sullivan came to Australia from England in 1979 and worked for the Age as a reporter, feature writer and editor of various sections, including the books pages. Jane won the inaugural Australian Human Rights Award for journalism. She has previously published two novels, The White Star (Penguin Australia) and Little People (Scribe Publications), which was shortlisted for the Encore Award for a second novel. Jane's first non-fiction book, “Storytime”, was published by Ventura Press. Jane currently writes ‘Turning Pages’, a Saturday column on books and writing, for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
Generation Women Melbourne: This Little Light of Mine: Stories of Hope
This month, we invited our superstar line-up to share with us a story of hope—something big or small that gave them a reason to have faith in this world. Maybe they found hope in a practice, or a place, or some hard-won personal growth. Their little light of hope might be tied to the emotional, the political, the social, or the sexual (you know we love a sexy story at Generation Women!). Whatever our line-up cares to share, you can expect our usual blend of warmth and wisdom from performers of all ages, here to provide some inspiration and insight as we journey through this mad thing called life.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Ashleigh Streeter-Jones is an activist, founder, speaker, writer and advisor lifting the floor to close gender inequality gaps locally, nationally and internationally. Ashleigh has been recognised by the Foundation of Young Australians as one of the Young Social Pioneers, was named the youngest ever Australian Capital Territory Woman of the Year and on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2018.
Team 30s: Sunanda Sachatrakul is a Melbourne International Comedy Festival Best Newcomer nominee and screenwriter. They’re from New Delhi, Bangkok, New York and Los Angeles all at once. Sunanda moved to Melbourne for love in 2019, and now performs stand up around Melbourne, collaborates with award-winning groups, and is currently developing some screen projects.
Team 40s: Clementine Ford is a writer, broadcaster and feminist community builder. She is the bestselling author of the feminist manifestos Fight Like A Girl and Boys Will Be Boys, which have also been published to great acclaim in the UK and the US. In 2017, she won the Matt Richell Award for Best New Writer of the Year at the ABIAs. Her most recent book is How We Love: Notes on a life.
Team 50s: Emilie Collyer writes poetry, plays and prose, published and produced widely in Australia and internationally. Her poetry book Do you have anything less domestic? (Vagabond Press 2022) won the Five Islands Press Prize. She is currently under commission with Red Stitch Theatre and is the 2023 Melbourne Athenaeum Library writer-in-residence.
Team 60s: Lyn Yeowart is a consulting writer and editor, and author of the award-winning bestseller The Silent Listener, a psychological thriller based on events from her childhood. She’s self-assured and shy…boisterous and mild…hilarious and solemn…fascinating and boring…profound and shallow…hard-working and lazy…honest and deceptive…it all depends on her perspective—and yours.
Team 70s: Mig Dann is a Naarm/ Melbourne-based artist, writer and researcher who completed her PhD in 2022. Her work is informed by memory and forgetting, absence and presence, feminism, queer culture and decades of lived experience. Her work has been exhibited both internationally and nationally in solo and group shows.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted by Devi Palanisamy. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.
Generation Women Sydney: This Little Light of Mine: Stories of Hope
This month, we invited our superstar line-up to share with us a story of hope—something big or small that gave them a reason to have faith in this world. Maybe they found hope in a practice, or a place, or some hard-won personal growth. Their little light of hope might be tied to the emotional, the political, the social, or the sexual (you know we love a sexy story at Generation Women!). Whatever our line-up cares to share, you can expect our usual blend of warmth and wisdom from performers of all ages, here to provide some inspiration and insight as we journey through this mad thing called life.
Our performer line-up:
Team 20s: Amanda Seedhouse, originally from the UK, recently completed her PhD in quantum physics and is currently a researcher in Sydney. She volunteers in the charity Quantum Women and, outside of the quantum realm, crochet and bouldering keep her occupied.
Team 30s: Divya Vaman is a writer, actor, stand-up comedian and now storyteller. Her comedy material touches on her childhood, indian family members and her adult life in the big city. She has written and performed in comedy sketches that are accessible on her YouTube Channel, Divya Vaman. You can catch her at a gig in Sydney sometime.
Team 40s: Dr Jess McLean is an Associate Professor at Macquarie University. As a geographer, she focuses on water cultures, climate and feminist activism, and digital spaces of change. She grew up in Mudgee, Wiradjuri Country, in an excellent family of twelve people and is a single mum of an amazing teenage boy.
Team 50s: Beth Armstrong is a director of film and television, writer and live storyteller, she is also a single mum of two girls. Beth’s award-winning podcast, Curveball - The Club You Didn’t Want To Be Part Of is a podcast about life's unexpected moments with a black comedy tell-it-like-it-is approach.
Team 60s: Jane Caro AM is a Walkley Award winning Australian columnist, author, novelist, commentator and advertising writer. She has published thirteen books, including her debut adult fiction novel, The Mother, her memoir, Plain-Speaking Jane, as well as Just a Girl and Just a Queen. Jane appears frequently on Nine Today Extra and Today.
Team 80s: Eva Cox AO is a long time social activist, starting as a refugee from Hitler. She is an Austrian-born Australian writer, feminist, sociologist, social commentator and activist.
Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.
Hosted Louise James, Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.