Women Out West 2022 –
Break the Bias

An International Women’s Day Forum

As part of our Women Out West series, Penrith Performing & Visual Arts (PP&VA) bring you a very special International Women’s Day inspired panel discussion – Break the Bias!

Women experience discrimination in a myriad of ways. Our panel will be unpacking the common types of bias that women face due to their race, sexual orientation, citizenship status, a disability, or other aspects of their identity. There will also be an opportunity for audience participation with a Q&A.

We invite you to join us and be part of the continuing advocacy for safety, equality, diversity and growth.

A light lunch will be provided as well as live music by Penrith Conservatorium Scholarship Recipients, Dominic Hart and Kaleb Irawan.

Women out West is supported by Nepean News.

PANELLISTS

Azita Abdollahian – Author of Breaking Free – from oppressed to inspirational. One woman’s story of moving beyond social and cultural barriers. Forced to flee Iran 20 years ago, Azita came to Australia as a refugee. She is the Press Secretary of the World Women Association, Founder/Director/CEO Shining Light Foundation and Azita Academy and was named a Westfield Local Hero in 2020.

Heather Chaffey – A passionate advocate for social justice with 20 years experience in the community and Local Government sectors, particularly within Western Sydney. With a keen focus on place-based disadvantage, innovation and social leadership, Heather is driven to walk along side communities and challenge systemic disadvantage. She is a skilled manager and leader, a gifted story teller and TEDx speaker, and frequently presents at conferences and events.

Belle Powell – A University of Sydney student in her second year studying Politics and International Relations. Belle was the 2018 Youth Parliamentarian of the Year, Member for Penrith and Minister for Women’s Affairs, and led her team in writing a domestic violence bill for DV awareness to be taught in High School.

Sala-O-Vea Walter – A University of NSW honours student, having recently completed a Bachelor of Social Research and Policy in Politics and International Relations. Australian born Sala is of Tongan heritage and grew up in Mt Druitt. She is a blogger on Tongan women’s rights, among other issues.

FACILITATOR

Lisa Finn Powell – Journalist, Speaker, Performer and Author of The Thin Time and upcoming Accidental Expat, and PR Coordinator, PP&VA.