Harmony Week: Pathways to Inclusion and Empowerment

Join Auspire - Australia Day Council WA for a FREE online event recognising Harmony Week, with the inspiring story and impact of Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello - 2025 Australia's Local Heroes in the Australian of the Year Awards.

As founders of social enterprise, Cafe Stepping Stone, Vanessa and Hannah provide long-term employment opportunities and tailored training for women, many from migrant and refugee backgrounds, who have experienced hardship, trauma and significant barriers to employment. Across their two locations, they have created a community that offers support, security and a sense of belonging for women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

For providing a pathway to inclusion and empowerment for disadvantaged and vulnerable women, Vanessa and Hannah were named Australia's Local Heroes in the 2025 Australian of the Year Awards.

Tune in to discover more about their incredible journey and impact, as we celebrate Australia's cultural diversity and inclusion this Harmony Week. The colour orange represents harmony, so wear something orange and celebrate with us!

Harmony Week is Monday 17 - Sunday 23 March 2025 (15 - 21 March in Western Australia). 

Registration is essential to receive the link to access the event. Please be advised this event may include potentially distressing content and material. By registering for this event, you agree to subscribe to our newsletter to receive our latest news and information. You may unsubscribe at any time.

About Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello

Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello are the co-founders of Stepping Stone, a social enterprise established in 2020 in Canberra, Australia. The mission is to reduce inequality by providing employment and training opportunities to migrant and refugee women facing significant barriers to entering the Australian workforce. Their innovative approach focuses on integrating work and community support, fostering an environment where these women can thrive.

Under their leadership, Stepping Stone has expanded to two locations: Strathnairn and Dickson. Since its inception, the enterprise has employed and trained over 60 women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, with 70% of them securing their first formal employment through the initiative. Remarkably, for every $10 spent at the café, $5.10 directly supports beneficiary wages and superannuation, underscoring their commitment to reinvesting in their community.

In recognition of their outstanding contributions to social enterprise and community empowerment, Vanessa and Hannah were honored as the 2025 Australian of the Year Local Heroes. Their work continues to inspire change, fostering a more inclusive society where all individuals, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive.