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If you're from Australia then you would have noticed, read and heard the recent news around the unacceptable domestic violence against women; for me it is heart-breaking to hear that this is happening and that many women live in fear of someone they believed that they love and trusted with all their heart and soul.
This year to date, and we're nearly 10 months into 2015, 63 women and children have been killed by partners or family - people that they trust with all their heart and soul! Just yesterday on the news I heard that a 31 year old man from the Hunter Valley, 2 hours north of Sydney, was charged with killing his 12 year old stepdaughter; what parent, guardian or anyone would do this to a child, to someone that they love?! I just don't understand this and I don't believe that I ever will.
Our new Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, stated that "Disrespecting women does not always result in violence against women"….."But all violence against women begins with disrespecting women" as he unveiled a $100 million package to boost support services, training and fund practical measures to help those fleeing abusive relationships. The aim of the package is to keep women safe in their homes, on the streets and online. I totally support.
I would have to say that I am very lucky to not be a victim of domestic violence and nor do I know of any close friends and/or family going through this. However, you never know what is going on behind someone's closed door; they could be putting on a very brave face in public.
Respect should be given to everyone regardless of gender, age, status or even job titles. We are all people, we are all humans and we are all here for a limited time; we shouldn't have to live in fear and nor should we be fearing those we love, trust and respect.
Have you experienced domestic violence or know of someone? How did you or they manage to get out or what help was available?
Love and respect each other.
Jo x
The event of the year, Shine and Dine, is due to take place on June 5th, 2015 at the stunning Dolton House Jones Bay Wharf, Pyrmont. Shine and Dine is a spectacular black tie charity dinner that raises awareness, funds and valuable wishes for terminally ill children through Make-a-Wish Australia. In its third year, Shine and Dine has cemented themselves as the unmissable event to attend attracting many supporters and celebrities wanting to support this amazing cause.
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| Sharon Melhem |
Sharon Melhem is the beautiful and powerful brain-child behind the Shine and Dine annual event. Working hard to source supporters, promoters, suppliers and everything that goes into creating this event, Sharon is busily on the go to achieve enormous dreams and wishes for these children. Sharon kindly found some time from her hectic schedule to let me find out a little more about her.
WHERE DID THE IDEA OF SHINE AND DINE COME FROM?
I have always worked in marketing and event strategy and as a result of increased consulting requests I started Kouture Productions. One of my client's needed help with a charity event for their Miss World Australia pageant and realising I could utilise my skills, experiences and networks to help others was extremely rewarding. This experience influenced me onto the Shine and Dine concept!
HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN A SUPPORTER OF MAKE-A-WISH AUSTRALIA?
I've always had a soft spot for children; they are just beautiful souls. To learn about Make-A-Wish wish granting cause and how they provide hope and joy to children who are facing a life threatening illness just melted my heart.
I had to help and make sure more of these wishes were granted more frequently. Make-A-Wish receives over 2,000 wishes from kids every year – these wishes exceeds the funding available.
WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST SUPPORT FOR SHINE AND DINE?
My family. They go on the entire journey with me; from all the lows and to all the highs. I would not know where I would be without them. I am truly blessed.
WHERE DO YOU HOPE TO SEE SHINE AND DINE IN 3 YEARS TIME?
I hope for Shine and Dine to grow bigger and better year on year and that even more funds are raised for these kids. It would be a dream come true for Shine and Dine to be known as the charity gala dinner and cause that people cannot ignore and want to support.
WHAT IS YOUR ONE WISH?
To be able to work full time in developing more charitable event concepts under the Kouture Productions umbrella so my impact is greater for people in need.
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| Shine and Dine 2013 |
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| Shine and Dine 2014 |
This is one event you won't want to miss for 2015 so jump online to their website here and get yourself a ticket to this fabulous night where you'll be creating memorable wishes. With amazing supporters from the likes of House of K'dor, James Shawshank, and Merc Real Estate you'll want to be apart of this!
To Sharon - thank you for making time to catch up with me and share your thoughts and dreams. You're an amazing soul putting yourself out there to help others. I wish you all the success and an awesome Shine and Dine 2015.
See you all at Shine and Dine!
Jo x
