Most of us would struggle to squeeze a lifetime into seven minutes. Seven local women are about to give it a go, with stories of what they have survived along the way.
The fourth Small SHIFT: I Will Survive fundraiser comes to Byron Services Club tomorrow (Thursday, November 5), bringing together women from seven different decades to tell a personal story.
Hosted by Mandy Nolan, the evening raises money for Byron’s SHIFT Project, which supports women moving from homelessness and hardship towards independence.
Each speaker gets seven minutes on stage. Organisers say the stories can be moving, funny and revealing, offering audiences a glimpse beyond the surface of someone else’s life.
The first three events sold out, according to the charity.
Behind the storytelling is the practical work of helping women find their feet after their immediate crisis has passed.
‘Our programs encourage confidence, independence and the re-establishment of life skills by creating environments that foster social interaction, relationship and workplace professionalism,’ the organisation says.
SHIFT combines residential assistance with education, wellbeing support and help with employment and finances.
Its Linen SHIFT laundry service also provides training and work experience for women while servicing local hotels.
The organisation describes its role as the next step after crisis accommodation, with support tailored to each woman’s circumstances.
Proceeds from tomorrow’s event will help fund that work, including housing, education and support for women rebuilding their lives.
Small SHIFT: I Will Survive #4 runs from 7pm to 9pm at Byron Services Club, 132 Jonson Street. Tickets are $40 through Humanitix, with food available at the venue.
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