Join us for an inspiring ‘Ladies Lunch + Panel Q&A’ on the theme ’Courage' – The inner strength to face fears, embrace vulnerability, and pursue your goals.

This empowering event is designed to bring together women from all walks of life to connect, learn, and uplift one another - while raising vital funds for Cancer Council NSW.

For the afternoon, you’ll hear from a panel of four inspiring guest speakers who will share their personal journeys and insights on cultivating courage in various aspects of life. Whether it's overcoming personal challenges, making bold career moves, or pursuing lifelong dreams, the speakers will provide invaluable perspectives and inspiration. PLUS there will be ample opportunity for you to ask questions - so bring your questions along! Each of the four speakers has inspired and impacted me personally, and I can’t wait for you to experience the same!

The guest speakers have kindly donated their time for this afternoon event (I am beyond grateful!). You can read more information about each speaker below…

Katie Ford:

Katie Ford has ditched the rule book and the world loves her for it. A best-selling author, 11 years in the mindset and wellness space and the woman you want in your late-night group chats. A sweary rouge at heart, Katie champions women to thrive alongside their fears, remember who they are and let go of anything that isn’t that.

Click here for Katie’s website

Kristy-Jai Chantrey (KJ):

KJ is an organisational change practitioner, trainer and coach specialising in change and continuous improvement. She thrives on complex transformations that address organisational challenges, including change strategy, leadership alignment, culture evolution, and operating model change. With over 20 years in change and transformations, she is a self-proclaimed “Humaneer” and change geek! KJ’s current focus on the emerging science of humaneering as workplaces evolve. Fun Fact: KJ got her transformation wings working in the technology travel industry for a company that led paper to e-tickets then the shift to online travel agencies in 2003.

Click here for KJ’s website

Professor Nikola Bowden:

Professor Bowden holds a PhD in Medical Genetics and a B. Biomed Sc (Hons) from the University of Newcastle. She has over 20 years of full-time research experience in cancer. Prof Bowden currently leads the NSW Regional Cancer Research Network and is co-Director of the Hunter Medical Research Institute Drug Repurposing and Medicines research program. Prof Bowden’s research has the overall aim of finding old drugs to repurpose for treatment-resistant melanoma and ovarian cancer.

Click here for Nikola’s website

Nicole Mathieson:

Nicole Mathieson is a relationship focused counsellor and couples therapist helping people come back to themselves and learn practical, experiential skills to create more loving, connected and harmonious intimate relationships — with themselves and their partners.

Nicole is the author of The Beauty Load, How to feel enough in a world obsessed with Beauty, which exposes the damaging and unrealistic beauty pressures society places on women, and shares how to let go of that struggle. Nicole is particularly passionate about helping women shed body image issues and move beyond the ‘beauty load’ to feel confident in themselves and worthy of love and connection.

Click here for Nicole’s website

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DETAILS

Tickets: $60 per person

Raffle + Prizes: There will also be a raffle with exciting prizes, adding an element of fun and excitement to the day!

Catering: A light lunch will be provided, which includes a grazing board and mixed hot platters. There is also the option to purchase additional food from the Hotel’s bistro if you’d like to. (note - please mention any dietary requirements when purchasing your ticket)

Networking: Throughout the event, there will be opportunities to network and connect with like-minded women, fostering new friendships and strengthening our community.

All ticket sales and raffles proceeds will be donated to Cancer Council NSW

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About Cancer Council NSW:  

The NSW Cancer Council is a leading cancer charity dedicated to reducing the impact of cancer on individuals and communities. With a mission to defeat cancer through advocacy, research, and support, the council provides vital services to cancer patients and their families, including counselling, financial assistance, and access to support groups.

Their research initiatives aim to improve cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment, contributing to better outcomes for those affected by the disease. Cancer Council NSW is 94% community funded, therefore funds raised from Stars of Newcastle go right back into the community supporting all cancer patients in our region.

About Dr Kirsty Seward:

Meet Kirsty Seward, she is one of the ten humans putting on her dancing shoes for this years 'Stars of Newcastle' to raise money for the Cancer Council NSW ✨ 

Kirsty is a behavioural scientist, speaker and author dedicated to guiding women to reclaim their confidence and well-being in the health and wellness space. She’s an identical twin, dog-mum to Murphy, the all-time 'fun' Aunty; and a lover of pasta, coffee and running. Sunrise is her absolute favourite time of the day – and she enjoys morning walks with her partner and their puppies along Merewether! 

Kirsty’s motivation for joining the Stars of Newcastle 2024 is to challenge herself, meet new people and exemplify what she advocates: encouraging women to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new experiences!  

Additionally, cancer has deeply affected her personally, as her family have lost both her beloved grandfather and beautiful Aunty to cancer in recent years. She also believes in the power of community and connection, and she knows that incredible things can be achieved when people come together.  

As a dedicated Novocastrian, she enjoys giving back to the community and supporting an important cause – especially one which is close to her heart