Embolden2023 National Symposium

About Embolden2013

The Embolden is a National Symposium combatting ageism and building respect for older people. The Embolden events were established in 2018, to embolden (build capacity/confidence) of service providers, community leaders and older people in ways that accelerate the page of change. Embolden2023 will focus on cultural dimensions of ageism and practical primary prevention strategies.

Embolden2023 Symposium will be held on October 3-4 at the Daylesford Town Hall (in person event only) and on October 1st, an online event will launch the #OldisBeautiful program, to coincide with International Day of the Older Person. 

Program

​The theme for Embolden2023 is Words Make Worlds, drawing on theories of language as a powerful tool for change. Language reflects and preserves the cultural values and practices that perpetuate the ageism and inequalities experienced by older people. In other words, language mirrors our culture - and can be used to drive culture change.

The Embolden2023 Program is structured to engage participants in sharing their expertise and strategies for change. We want to ensure participants leave feeling inspired – and - with plans for leading change.

Congress of Voices from the Margins (3rd Oct, 2-6pm)

• Diverse and marginalised groups of older people and their representatives share perspectives on ageism and respect for older people
• Presentations include Aboriginal, Rural, CALD, People Living with Dementia, Queer, Polio survivors, Women, Veterans, Caravan Park Dwellers, Homelessness - more to follow.

Networking event (3rd Oct, 6.30-8pm)

• The Market of Great Ideas invites delegates to share their great ideas for combatting ageism/building respect 
• Interactive activities; following by food provided by Splade to Blade Catering. 

 
Using language to make change (4th Oct, 9am-2.30pm)

• Linguist Professor Kate Burridge will help us explore language as a powerful agent for change
• A series of Makeshops (presentations, discussion, interactive activities and resources production) will focus on practical strategies to combat ageism, and will inform the development of a Dictionary of Ageism.

How to Continue (4th Oct, 2.30-3.30pm)

• Lessons from service providers and care partners about the strategies for self-support that enable them to continue the important work they do advocating for older people and a more respectful world.