“March Forward: Rights, Equality, Empowerment for ALL Women and Girls” is the apt title for International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025.
Enjoy an inspiring, empowering, and active audience participatory afternoon with Hellenic women of substance, sharing their stories and strategies to spark your interest in becoming active in, and for, your community.
In celebration of IWD 2025 you are invited to an afternoon, where five extraordinary women share their personal journeys of triumph, challenges, and the paths they’ve taken to achieve success in their chosen careers. This informal gathering promises a rich exchange of ideas, coffee, and conversation with ‘Our Women in Community Activism.’
Featured speakers:
- Maria Vamvakinou, Federal MP for Calwell – First Greek-Born Woman in Federal Parliament: Maria Vamvakinou has been a trailblazer for the Greek Australian community, advocating for multiculturalism and women’s rights in Australia’s Federal Parliament. “I’m not retiring from the
community, you haven’t seen the last of me.”
- Maria Dimopoulos AM, Board Chair of Safe and Equal: Lauded renowned human rights advocate, Maria Dimopoulos is recognized for her work championing diversity and gender equality and social justice with a deep commitment to advancing human rights. “We create a future that recognizes its past and embraces justice, equality, and human rights.”
- Emily Dimitriadis, Deputy Mayor, Darebin City Council: Emily has consistently advocated for public health and safety, women and girls’ participation in sports, and the welfare of the elderly and vulnerable. “I am proud to serve my community, listening to and advocating for its diverse needs.”
- Helen Politis, Deputy Mayor, Merri-Bek City Council: An industry and community development professional, with a strong record of delivery across the private and public sectors. “As a lifelong local, I’m immensely proud and lucky to live in a vibrant and diverse community. I want to work towards making it safe and fair for all.”
This event also takes a moment to honour the late Sofia Mastoris OAM, whose immeasurable contributions to our community continue to inspire. Sofia’s tireless work advocating for women’s rights and social justice has left a lasting impact. Her legacy lives on through the causes she supported and the countless individuals she mentored. This event is a tribute to Sofia’s life and the ways she touched people’s hearts and the community.
Event Details:
- Event: Our Women in Community Activism
- Date: March 8th, 2025
- Time: 1:00pm – 4:00pm
- Venue: PATRIS Café, 140 Barkly Street, Brunswick
- Buy tickets here. Booking is essential. Tickets are $50 and include food and refreshments, with a portion of proceeds donated to Sophia’s chosen charity, Pancare Foundation.
