Our 3rd Melbourne Gala, held on 2 September 2017, at the luxurious Sofitel Melbourne On Collins and hosted by Guy Russo, Chief Executive Officer, Wesfarmers Department Stores Division (Kmart and Target) – was an exquisite night and without a doubt, one to remember.

For the first time this year, we welcomed our Title Sponsor- Ifeng.com – who impressed by the dedication and work of Half the Sky Australia – has offered its ‘Forever Happiness’ media campaign to help raise awareness and encourage philanthropic dialogue on the plight of orphaned and disadvantaged children in China. Together, we dream of reaching more hurt children in their formative years and ensuring that love, hope and safety are the new norms in their lives.

Again this year, our dynamic and indefatigable CEO Deanne Bevan provided her emotional insights and hopes for Half the Sky. Her powerful address stirred the hearts and souls of all those present – truly, you could not hear a pin drop.

At the core of every great event are amazing people. We were profoundly appreciative to welcome 530 guests who zealously dug deep to help raise over $800,000.  What a privilege it was to celebrate the work of the Foundation with such generous advocates and how breathtaking it was to see their excitement in donating, pledging, sponsoring and bidding on the night. A thankful mention also to our fabulous sponsors, volunteers and in–kind supporters – their faith in us makes everything we dream of for the children possible.

To make this event the most memorable to date (and undoubtedly the most emotional), we were delighted to welcome to the stage, both Maya and Anya Bowen (the real – life inspirations behind Half the Sky). They revealed that with the love and encouragement of family, they learnt to dream vividly, appreciate the beauty of their dreams and trust that a path existed to realize them.

The Half the Sky Team looks forward to providing you with updates on how our programs are impacting the courageous children. If you would like to learn more about our Foundation or have any ideas for partnering with us, we would be delighted to hear from you.  Please email our Chief Development Officer, Lauren O’Hara (lauren@halfthesky.com.au).

With love and thanks from Deanne, Lauren, Veronica, Sheida and us all at Half the Sky Australia!

*To view the glitz and glamour of the evening, please click here.

Written by Veronica Reich

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