Latest news: 5 July 2018.

For her 40th birthday, Annie Bain invited her friends to help her celebrate by donating to Women for Change instead of buying her gifts. Annie and her friends and family are making a difference. They successfully raised over $1000 to support Women for Change. 

It all started when Annie heard Dr Kakenya Ntaiya being interviewed by Eleanor Hall on her program The World Today on ABC Radio.

“I was moved by the incredible sacrifice she made to be able to continue her education, and very humbled by how fortunate we are in Australia to have access to education – an education that most of us take for granted,” says Annie.

Annie was planning her 40th Birthday celebrations when she heard Kakenya’s story, prompting her to include in her invitations a request for donations to Women for Change in place of a gift.

“My friends and family are incredibly supportive and generous, and loved the idea.”

Making a difference

Annie is a strong believer that education can make a difference in people’s lives.

“I work in refugee health and see the life-changing difference that education makes for individuals, families and communities. Education influences everything,” says Annie.

The party took place in Annie’s backyard with 80 of her friends and family on a perfect night with “delicious paella”, a “beautiful grazing table” and all Annie’s “favourite drinks”.

“I’d like to thank Kakenya and Women for Change for the amazing work they are doing. I’d also like to thank my friends and family for being so wonderful and generous,” says Annie.

Find out more

• Find out how you can support Women for Change