Kogarah Community Services’ (KCS) postponed International Women’s Day (IWD) intergenerational event went ahead on Tuesday, March 22 at the KCS Hub.
The KCS intergenerational program has been running for over two years, bringing together children, students and residents from aged care homes to learn from each other and share stories.
READ MORE: ‘Bridging the gap’: Maria Anthony on the importance of intergenerational programs.
At this year’s IWD event, elderly residents from a Kogarah aged care home, The Laurels, were present, as well as Year 10 students from Moorefield Girls High School, the Mayor of Georges River Council, Nick Katris, and guest speaker, Cathy Dimarchos.
Three Year 10 students from Moorefield were emcees on the day, whilst Ms Dimarchos discussed the main theme: ‘Connection across Generations and Cultures to shape a better tomorrow.’
Ms Dimarchos spoke passionately about how people must learn from younger generations, and encouraged participants to stop and listen, work alongside and communicate with all generations.
After this, attendees were encouraged to take part in a group discussion, with many stressing how much they enjoyed the event as it gave them an opportunity to learn from one another.
One 90-year-old attendee, Joan, shared with the group how she struggled with limited career choices as a female in the 1940’s. Only families that could afford university continued their education.
One Year 10 student agreed with Joan and spoke about the pressure and expectations she feels from her family to continue her education as they don’t have the privilege or opportunity to do so.
At the end of the event, everyone left with a smile on their face.
KCS Intergenerational Program assistant, Maria Anthony, says she would like to see more of these programs out in the community as the benefits are for all, no matter the age.
“Let’s make a difference, let’s provide for a better future, let’s bridge the gap of generations,” she concluded.
 postponed International Women's Day intergenerational event went ahead on Tuesday, March 22 at the KCS Hub.){kind=link}