Refugee women who’ve settled into new lives in Hobart with the help of sewing will play a central role at a major Tasmanian fundraiser tackling family violence this Friday night.
The Be Hers Foundation has handcrafted 150 napkins for the Dinner for Change, a fundraising event hosted by Justice for Her at Ninja Stadium.
Each napkin was made by women at the Be Hers’ Hobart hub, which has provided employment, mentorship, emergency support and a safe space for local refugee women since 2019.
Be Hers Foundation general manager Allison Levinson said the collaboration reflects a shared mission of supporting vulnerable women.
“Every napkin sewn for Dinner for Change carries a deeper story of resilience, hope and new beginnings,” she said.
“Our women have come from incredibly challenging circumstances, and through dignified employment they are able to dream freely again.”
“To contribute to an event like the Justice for Her dinner is deeply meaningful because it connects women from different experiences through a shared commitment to safety, empowerment and lasting change.”
Justice for Her is a statewide initiative run by Women’s Legal Service Tasmania (WLST) calling on individuals, businesses and communities to take practical action against gendered violence while raising money for frontline support.
WLST chief executive Yvette Cehtel said the inclusion of Be Hers at the dinner shows the strength of women supporting women.
“Justice for Her is about more than raising awareness. It is about creating tangible pathways to safety, justice and empowerment,” she said.
“Family violence remains one of the most urgent issues facing Tasmanian women and children, but through collective action we can provide immediate support while building a safer future.”
Justice For Her say one in three Tasmanian women has experienced physical or sexual violence.
WLST board member Sally Hayne said getting specialist legal help can be life-changing for women escaping violent relationships.
“Leaving a violent relationship is often one of the most dangerous and legally complex times in a woman’s life,” she said.
“Without that support, too many women face impossible barriers when trying to rebuild their lives free from violence.”
Friday night’s event will bring together business leaders, advocates and the broader community for an evening of fine dining, storytelling and fundraising.
Money raised through Justice for Her helps cover emergency legal representation, safety upgrades, transport and immediate practical support for Tasmanian women and children affected by family violence.
For more info: www.justiceforher.org.au.
