Mistakes are inevitable, but sometimes a misstep can take us down the right path. This month, our talented ensemble of multigenerational performers will present true tales of life-changing moments born from a mistake, an error, a beautiful blunder. Expect stories of mishap that ended up being miraculous and tales of triumph over travesty. Sometimes, two wrongs can make a right! Join us in April, and enjoy an evening celebrating hard-won wisdom and unexpected luck.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Maddie King is a 23-year-old cancer survivor living in Sydney’s Inner West. She juggles jobs in marketing, instructing Pilates and running a small business creating headscarves for cancer patients, and is passionate about cancer research and advocacy.

Team 30s: Bec Melrose is an award-winning writer and comedian. Since winning Australia’s biggest comedy competition, RAW Comedy, Bec has been touring the country, working with and opening for her comedy idols like Wil Anderson. Bec is a regular on ABC radio and TV, and her writing credits include Gruen, The Weekly and Question Everything.

Team 40s: Mawunyo Gbogbo is an ABC journalist specialising in popular culture and the author of Hip Hop & Hymns. Published by Penguin Random House, Hip Hop & Hymns was described by Books+Publishing as ‘a beautiful and heart-wrenching memoir’.

Team 50s: Jane Riley is a retired private investigator who recently graduated in Positive Psychology as well as receiving a Diploma in Health and Wellbeing. Jane embraces a vibrant, addiction-free life and is launching into public speaking to shine a light on her story and help others also achieve happy and immensely fulfilling addiction-free lives. Jane resides in Tamworth and cares for her mother.

Team 60s: Sarah Stewart is a midwife, mother and wife of 40 years — and does comedy to get away from them all. She has had sold out shows at the Canberra Comedy Festival and was nominated for Best in Comedy at the 2023 Sydney Fringe Festival. Sarah is currently working on a solo show.

Team 70s: Kate Rowe. Pommy by birth, Aussie by choice, ageing lesbian feminist, 78er, clean and sober 45 years, childhood sexual abuse and rape survivor, travel adventurer, health and exercise nut, retired triathlete, ukulele player, tactless direct talker and all-round pain in the butt with a sense of humour.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Sarah Gaul. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.

THE BERESFORD

354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016

DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM

Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.

Mistakes are inevitable, but sometimes a misstep can take us down the right path. This month, our talented ensemble of multigenerational performers will present true tales of life-changing moments born from a mistake, an error, a beautiful blunder. Expect stories of mishap that ended up being miraculous and tales of triumph over travesty. Sometimes, two wrongs can make a right! Join us in April and enjoy an evening celebrating hard-won wisdom and unexpected luck.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s - EVA MAY is a psychology student with a passion for travel, holistic health, wellness and mental health advocacy. As a self-confessed “energiser bunny”, when she’s not planning her next adventure, you’ll find her on a run, in the ocean, or on a coffee walk with her besties.

Team 30s - SOM PURI is a writer, a keynote speaker and an only child with a rich inner life. She recently spoke at TedxMornington, where she explored how being intentional about how we narrate, highlight and link the stories from our lives can help us create powerful personal narratives. If she had a superpower, it would be championing people to better express the diverse parts of their personality and identity, and tell their non-linear stories in aligned, memorable and impactful ways. She also runs a copywriting business where she works with brands to align their words to their brand voice, their community and their business goals.

Team 40s - JACKIE KATSIKIS is a lifelong traveller, learner and behavioural expert. She’s a scientist, facilitator and coach by education, intuitive and spiritual guide by journey. She takes a conscious approach to life blending the realms of spirituality and science with her real-world experiences to drive positive change in people’s lives.

Team 50s - SALLYANNE HARTNELL is award nominated podcaster and Relationship & Divorce Coach - supports clients feeling challenged in their relationship or marriage, navigating separation or divorce - she is the woman no-one wants to need. She is a fiercely proud single mother to two big-hearted, adventurous, young adults, and happiest sharing good food and conversation with the people she cares about most.

Team 60s - MARY SCOTT, With over three decades of experience, Mary is a seasoned Confidence Coach and Entrepreneur. Her expertise empowers individuals to reach their full potential. Recognized for her authenticity and wisdom, Mary inspires lasting change, guiding others to reclaim their power and thrive in their personal and professional lives

Team 70s- Irene Mooney’s passion has always been singing and acting and she has been a member of many local amateur theatre companies and groups. Irene began performing in plays and musical theatre in1966 (she played Meg in Brigadoon) and has never looked back! She has played the lead in many stage classics - Oklahoma, Carousel, South Pacific, Pyjama Game and The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

HOWLER

7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056

DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM

Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.

Mistakes are inevitable, but sometimes a misstep can take us down the right path. This month, our talented ensemble of multigenerational performers will present true tales of life-changing moments born from a mistake, an error, a beautiful blunder. Expect stories of mishap that ended up being miraculous and tales of triumph over travesty. Sometimes, two wrongs can make a right! Join us in April for our inaugural pop-up Generation Women show in Wollongong, and enjoy an evening celebrating hard-won wisdom and unexpected luck.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s - Adara Enthaler is a freelance writer, editor, and performance poet. She is passionate about crafting honest, visceral stories and fostering human connection through words. Adara works as a freelance editor and writing coach and supports non-profit arts organizations in various roles. She continuously balances creative pursuits with supporting fellow creators.

Team 30s- Kobie Clifton found her passion and community in Circus WOW, exploring aerial arts and performing in various shows. Juggling family and work, she remains committed to WOW's inclusive environment. With years of involvement, she sees a future in creating acts and social circus programs.

Team 40s - Rebekah Lambert is a writer, advocate, and creator of many things. As the founder of the Freelance Jungle, Rebekah uses improvisation to teach client management skills, and narrative non-fiction to explore the Australian freelance and creative scene.  Currently studying trauma-informed principles, she amplifies trauma-survivors' voices creatively. Notable efforts include advocating for freelancer inclusion on JobKeeper and winning the 2019 Mental Health Matters award. 

Team 50s - Lillian Rodrigues-Pang is an internationally acclaimed, award winning storyteller. She has performed and taught internationally and on Australian main-stages, theatres, schools and in community. She is also a cultural events producer and works to provide inclusive, creative, and joyous spaces. When she is not on stage she is sharing spoken word love in the community as a connective, teaching and healing art. She has over 20 years’ experience working in mental health settings.

Team 60s- Desley Taylor has been a singer/songwriter for the past 35 years. She is the creator and member of the duo/trio Rare Birdz, who are about to stage Desley's original show "Love In A Major Minor" on June 22nd at Project Contemporary Art Space in Wollongong. Desley is also a practicing artist in painting and drawing, an avid reader, gardener, swimmer, and cake baker, as well as a very important aunt.

Team 70s - Tiang Nee Lim. Malaysian Chinese came to Sydney in 1972. One of 16 children. Qualifications in health, education, Psychology, Business, cooking and dementia care. Eclectic professions. 1991, on Minister Chadwick’s advisory committee on CALD Women’s issues. 1992, established TAFE’s 1st ELICOS Centre for international students. Grandmother, stand-up comedian and writer featured in the film SUKA, Singaporean play BOOM@ KXT BROADWAY and coconutface comedy Who Invented Moussaka.

Hosted by Shane Ladymoon. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.

THE BUILDERS

61 CHURCH STREET, WOLLONGONG NSW 2500

DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM

Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.

Join us this month for a lively celebration of Women's History Month and International Women's Day with our event theme, 'The M Words - Menstruation, Motherhood, Menopause'. We're sharing stories about the ups and downs and everything in between when it comes to the moments that touch women's lives.

Our performer line-up:

TEAM 20S - Taylor Griffiths is a playwright, performer and director in improv and sketch comedy. She was recently nominated for Best Comedy at the 2023 Melbourne Fringe Festival and debuted her solo show 'No Thoughts' at The Malthouse Theatre during the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Team 30s - Kit Richards is a comedian and musician from Naarm/Melbourne. She has written and performed 3 solo shows for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and is mounting her 4th in 2024. She has written for TV Programs Hard Quiz and The 1% Club.

Team 40s - Nandita Chakraborty, an Indian-Australian author, disability advocate, and keynote speaker, was born in Kolkata, India. She overcame a traumatic brain injury from a rock climbing accident to become a best-selling author, winning numerous awards for her work. Currently based in Melbourne, she continues to inspire through her writing and advocacy efforts.

Team 50s - Dr Celia Torres-Villanueva leads parallel lives across multiple universes. She juggles careers from molecular immunologist to lawyer, board director to social entrepreneur, and more. With a PhD in molecular genetics, she's a lawyer and founder of a social enterprise empowering women of color. Across three countries, she's a lawyer in Australia and the Philippines, raising three children while pursuing her dreams. Now, with two fur babies, she dreams of more parallel universes yet to explore.

Team 60s - Glenna Thomson. After a successful corporate career, Glen moved to a 500-acre cattle property and blueberry orchard in northeast Victoria. She’s a mother and grandmother. In her 60s she’s published three novels with Penguin Random House. The latest novel is titled Gone, and was released last month.

Team 70s - Anita Roleff, decided to pursue art at the age of nine. She graduated from Swinburne Art School in 1961. In addition to raising six children, she continued her artistic journey, exhibiting solo, teaching various crafts, and joining artistic societies. She co-designed and published "Southern Star - Mercedes-Benz in Australia" with her husband, Paul.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

HOWLER

7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056

DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM

Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.

Join us this month for a lively celebration of Women's History Month and International Women's Day with our event theme, 'The M Words - Menstruation, Motherhood, Menopause'. We're sharing stories about the ups and downs and everything in between when it comes to the moments that touch women's lives.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s - Melanie Philippou is a transdisciplinary communicator, passionate about solving complex challenges to drive meaningful change. Wearing many hats, she is a strategist at a creative agency, co-founder of a menstrual health education organization, Peried, and, a lived experience storyteller for youth mental health charity, batyr.

Team 30s - Oyelola Oyetunji is a writer, empath, matcha lover, ex-consultant and gratitude advocate. After a career in financial services consulting, Oyelola stumbled into the world of copywriting. No bruises, no regrets. Through her copywriting business, Phrased with Purpose, she helps sow or grow purpose-driven businesses using words rooted in empathy.

Team 40s - Abang Anade Othow is an educator, a renowned national ambassador for education and refugee council of Australia, and a strong advocate. She has made significant contributions to the refugee and wider community, serving as an ambassador for organizations such as Red Cross and Oasis Africa. As a current board member for the asylum seekers centre and a public speaker, she amplifies the voices of the marginalised. Fluent in four languages, with academic milestones in Master of Teaching, Bachelor of Arts, and a Diploma of Business. She is currently authoring her memoir.

Team 50s - Lou Johnson. Over three decades in book publishing, and now as the Co-founder of Key People Literary Management, Lou has always been driven by the power of stories to connect us. When her career abruptly shifted gears it prompted her to start sharing her own stories to neutralise stigma and shift the dial on gender norms.

Team 60s - Sharon Wall. After working in Gerontology and sitting at the feet of Elders for 45 years, Sharon is learning that Gerontologists do not retire, they just learn more in the first person about their craft.  Sharon has a side kick love warrior role using her voice when others have lost theirs .

Team 70s - Sylvia Kinder, Born in Liverpool UK 1948. Looking for adventure, she migrated to Australia in 1967. Sylvia has worked as a saleswoman, barmaid, nurse, primary, secondary, TAFE, and University teacher. She has been a feminist since 1972, now retired but still active in the Women’s and Lesbian Rights Movement.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Sarah Gaul. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.

THE BERESFORD

354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016

DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM

Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.

If laughter really is the best medicine, then we definitely have a healing evening planned. This February, we’re bringing “It's Funny You Ask: Stories of Life's Most Hilarious Moments,” to Howler, where we’ll share the tales that keep us laughing well after the fact. From the awkward to the absurd, you can expect hilarious stories told by our dynamic community of multigenerational storytellers. Join us Wednesday, February 28th in Melbourne!

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Taylah Whelan is a writer and comedian. In 2023 she premiered her first solo comedy show A Pleasure to Have in Class at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Taylah performs stand up comedy multiple nights, weekly at comedy clubs across Melbourne. In 2024 she will return to MICF with a brand new show, this time with her dear friend and comedy partner Helena Hogan by her side.

Team 30s: Lena Moon has been working in Film and TV in various capacities for over a decade. A writer chameleon; her TV writing credits are varied in content, from adult skewed animated series YOLO: Crystal Fantasy (Adult Swim) to children’s sketch comedy series, Definitely Not News (ABC Me), as well as working in the script department of projects such as Thank God You’re Here, Utopia, Aunty Donna’s Coffee Cafe and Aunty Donna's Big Old House of Fun.

Team 40s: Taku Mbudzi is an award-winning filmmaker, writer, and podcaster. When she's not writing or teaching, she loves performing. Her debut solo comedy show Shine My Light is a celebration of womanhood through humour, and plays at Melbourne’s La Mama Theatre in the week of International Women’s Day, 6-10 March 2024.

Team 50s: Mira Gladovic is the mistress of reinvention. After a science degree, she changed paths a number of times working in corporate, small business, entrepreneurship, disability before returning to her nerd roots as a digital and e-commerce professional. She contributed to her own generation of women by raising three daughters as a single mum.

Team 60s: Loretta Smith is a writer, committed feminist and environmental activist. Her best-selling biography, A Spanner in the Works: The extraordinary story of Alice Anderson and Australia’s first all-girl garage, was published in 2019 by Hachette. Her memoir, Corpus in Extremis will be released in mid 2024 by Spinifex

Team 70s: Jude Marshall. Married for 63 years with four children, I balanced family life with education and work. After raising my kids, I pursued higher education, teaching senior English until retirement. I then coached students and worked in palliative care. Now, my husband and I enjoy traveling the outback and spending time with family.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

HOWLER

7-11 DAWSON ST, BRUNSWICK VIC 3056

DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM

Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.

If laughter really is the best medicine, then we definitely have a healing evening planned. This February, we’re bringing “It's Funny You Ask: Stories of Life's Most Hilarious Moments,” to the Beresford, where we’ll share the tales that keep us laughing well after the fact. From the awkward to the absurd, you can expect hilarious stories told by our dynamic community of multigenerational storytellers. Join us Wednesday, February 21st in Sydney!

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Grace Valerie-Lynette is a multidisciplinary artist and disability advocate. She works as a Podcast Development Producer at Storyglass/FremantleMedia, and recently won the Rising Star Award at the Australian Podcast Awards. In 2023 she completed a 6-month paid mentorship with the Sydney Opera House on musical writing and development.

Team 30s: Samantha Bun is a self love & confidence coach and pole dance instructor who is all about empowering other women to boldly and confidently be free to express their limitless selves. She helps women embrace their bodies and sensuality in safe spaces. Her passion is spreading love, joy and positivity everywhere she goes!

Team 40s: Kylie Heart has been immersed in the entertainment industry as a performing artist for over 26 years as a singer, actor, voice artist, director, writer and producer for stage and screen. Kylie is a graduate of Actors Centre Australia and recently graduated from NIDA with a Masters of Fine Arts in Cultural Leadership. Lady K Heart is Kylie’s new creation set to enter the world and spread LOVE and KINDNESS in many forms.

Team 50s: Justine Williams is the radiant force behind two award-winning companies dedicated to spreading joy and magic: The Feel Good Studio and Hyp Little Fairy Tales. As a government accredited Clinical Hypnotherapist specialising in supporting those with anxiety, Justine's mission is clear: to guide women and children through life's challenges with grace, resilience, courage, and genuine compassion. And being a survivor, Justine also brings that one special quality to the table that can't be bought or taught: Empathy. 

Team 60s: Liz Wilson, a former nurse who collaborated to establish Bannister In Home care and other care services in Sydney. Now a Self taught artist, living small and dreaming big her passions are painting, swimming, singing and being in nature. Settled beside the rainforest outside the hippie village of Nimbin, her 2023 harvest was 2 new knees and launching her website “Liz Wilson Art Work”. Her work has been shown locally, regionally and in Brisbane.

Team 70s: Menaka Cooke came to Australia in 1973, became a single parent and then educated herself to become an HR manager and later HR Director in her corporate career. As a result of her own experiences with sexism, racism and ageism she found her passion in retirement in feminist and ageist matters and advocating for victims of Domestic Violence. She has received awards from the Australian Human Resources Institute, PM’s Award for employing people with disabilities, a WCEI Australia Award for social contribution and The International Alliance of Women World of Difference Award. Her memoir ‘Monsoon Woman’ outlines her experiences as a migrant single parent who educated herself (getting two Masters degrees) and reached the C-Suite. She is also a newsreader on Radio2RPH and podcaster of the ‘Colours of Australia’ program.           

Hosted by Mandy Nolan. Produced by Donna Logue. Created by Georgia Clark.

THE BERESFORD

354 BOURKE ST, SURRY HILLS NSW 2016

DOORS AT 6.30 PM, SHOW AT 7 PM

Want access to discounted tickets? Become a Generation Women Member to get $10 off the price of your ticket. More info here.

Sometimes, life throws you a curveball. In our last show for 2023, we invited our line-up to tell us stories of change. It might be a transformation they initiated, or a transition that happened to them. New paths can be invigorating and exciting, or confusing and downright scary. Regardless, the only constant in life is change, so this November, come hear a night of stories about forging your own path, wherever where that path takes you…

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Katha Villanueva is a recent University of Melbourne graduate, now a software engineer. In her spare time, she attempts to navigate adulthood and her own ever-changing passions. Casually, she is a writer, reader, artist, and just about anything creative. She has won and placed numerous writing competitions and hopes to fill the next chapters of her life with as much wonder as written in her stories.

Team 30s: Claire Tonti is a singer/songwriter, Matrescence activist & podcaster. Her debut album Matrescence released in February 2023 explores the process of becoming a mother - including themes of love, loss, overcoming birth trauma & mothering as a creative. She also hosts two podcasts Suggestible & TONTS. a series of in depth interviews with women & diverse voices including writers, activists, experts, thinkers & deeply feeling humans.

Team 40s: Emma McMillan is a former Dance and Drama teacher turned entrepreneur who loves a good story. Emma works as a copywriting coach and small business mentor, building writing confidence and capacity in others. Her long-running podcast ‘Not Just About Copy’ blends actionable marketing tips with insightful small business conversations.

Team 50s: Gamuchirai Goronga has 33 years of experience as a teacher, social worker, and senior manager in child protection across Australia, Zimbabwe and the UK. She was the Child Protection Director for Victoria's Central Highlands area until late 2022. Currently, she is a consultant and is pursuing a Professional Doctorate in Social Work at Latrobe University.

Team 60s: Sue Grieshaber is Professor of Early Childhood Education in the School of Education. Her research interests are informed by a range of critical, feminist, and feminist poststructural theories that address social justice and equity, and include early childhood curriculum, policy, pedagogies and families; women in higher education; and qualitative research approaches.

Team 70s: Anita Jawary is an artist, poet, short story writer, speaker and storyteller. She is also a fan of the writer Charles Dickens. When asked why she named her website, ‘The Dickensian Challenge’? Anita explained “Dickens wrote his novels in regular instalments, to a deadline. If we could live our lives in that way, remembering that we have a deadline, how much more productive might they be?”

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

Sometimes, life throws you a curveball. In our last show for 2023, we’ve invited our line-up to tell us stories of change. It might be a transformation they initiated, or a transition that happened to them. New paths can be invigorating and exciting, or confusing and downright scary. Regardless, the only constant in life is change, so this November, come hear a night of stories about forging your own path, wherever where that path takes you…

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Christina Zheng is like petrol station coffee, an unfiltered hot mess. She is also excelling at failing adulthood. Christina has performed at the Sydney Fringe Festival, Sydney Comedy Festival (supporting Jenny Tian and Pat Golamco). She is also a RAW Comedy NSW State Finalist.

Team 30s: Irene Nicola has performed in the cabaret space independently across Australia with her original one-woman shows, A Postmodern Striptease (2013-2017), Revenge, (2018) and multiple award-nominated Apocalypse Please (2019-2023). Irene was also a finalist in the Sydney Cabaret Competition (Sydney Cabaret Festival 2019) and performs regularly at Bamboozle Room's Talk and Tease.

Team 40s: Amanda Walsh is an author, teacher, and mental health advocate. Passionate about public Mother and Baby Units since her experience with postnatal psychosis, Amanda's book, 'A Mother’s Mind,' and her story of pain, discovery, and ultimately healing were featured on SBS's The Feed. Amanda lives with her husband and family in Sydney’s inner west.

Team 50s: Sonya Lovell, host of the podcast Dear Menopause regularly interviews experts and commentators in the fields of women’s health while challenging societal stigmas and taboos and advocating for better education and resources for women. A natural and passionate advocate for women’s rights and equity, the irony that her school reports stated “talks too much” is not lost on her!

Team 60s: Jenna Price is a visiting fellow at the Australian National University and a Sydney Morning Herald and Canberra Times columnist who has worked as a journalist for 40 years. She has a PhD in political sociology. She's the child of two refugees who were Holocaust survivors. Married, three adult kids. One of the cofounders of Destroy the Joint, which runs the Counting Dead Women campaign.

Team 70s: Kate Rowe. Pommy by birth, Aussie by choice, ageing lesbian feminist, 78er, clean and sober 45 years, childhood sexual abuse and rape survivor, travel adventurer, health and exercise nut, retired triathlete, ukulele player, tactless direct talker and all-round pain in the butt with a sense of humour.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Louise James Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

We don’t need another hero—we’re already looking at one in the mirror. This October, we bring you stories of the time we inspired ourselves. Stories of courage and of self-care. Of audacity and action. These six true tales from our multigenerational line-up will inspire you, surprise you, and entertain us all. Join us in community at the iconic Howler for a life-affirming evening that’ll leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on the world!

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Jacklyn Foster. For almost three years, Jacklyn has worked as a full-time artist from Mildura, regional Victoria, wearing multiple hats as an artist mentor, art teacher, and content creator as well as receiving recognition as an emerging talent after leaving a Health Degree early, and rediscovering her childhood dream of becoming an artist again. She enjoys reading, traveling and baking.

Team 30s: Anneliz Marie Erese is an award-winning writer of short fiction and poetry. She was named the 2023 Melbourne Scholar at the Faber Writing Academy. She is also one of the recipients of the Hot Desk Fellowship at The Wheeler Centre where she is at work on her first novel.

Team 40s: Nelly Thomas is a multi-talented, award-winning Australian comedian and author. She is well-known for her media commentary, speaking and MCing. Nelly is a regular guest on ABC Melbourne Radio, Radio National, News Breakfast and elsewhere. She was listed as one of Australia’s “most innovative thinkers” in The Age and was featured on the ABC’s Big Ideas: The Smartest Stuff on TV, Radio and Online. Her podcasts The Single Life of Us and Dear Nelly: sex, relationships and dating from the other side of 40 are incredibly popular. Nelly lives in Melbourne with her two daughters and a grumpy poodle.

Team 50s: Jane Riley is a former Private Investigator who has recently achieved Diplomas in Positive Psychology and Health/Wellbeing. Jane Embraces a vibrant alcohol-free life and finds immense fulfilment in her role as a dedicated caregiver to her cherished mother, a true testament to her compassionate spirit.

Team 60s: Amanda Hampson is the author of eight novels published by Penguin, each of which champions resourceful older women. Her recent release, The Tea Ladies, is set in Sydney’s fashion industry in 1965, and is currently a top ten bestselling Australian novel.

Team 80s: Maxine Barry is an octogenarian trailblazer who defies stereotypes. Passionate about progressive causes, she champions the Voice and environmental stewardship, debunking notions of generational apathy. Maxine exemplifies a forward-thinking legacy.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

We don’t need another hero—we’re already looking at one in the mirror. This October, we bring you stories of the time we inspired ourselves. Stories of courage and of self-care. Of audacity and action. These six true tales from our multigenerational line-up will inspire you, surprise you, and entertain us all. Join us in community at the iconic Beresford for a life-affirming evening that’ll leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on the world!

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Tiff Ng is passionate about empowering people to tell their stories. As the Founder and Chief Storyteller of The Social Story, she helps purpose-driven businesses to share their impact on social media and enable every person to find the strength in their own stories.

Team 30s: Jen Ward is a writer, comic, procrastinator, black belt in Karate, Family Feud auditionee and garlic bread aficionado. She uses comedy to navigate complexities of life, and tries to see the lighter side. Jen is intensely proud of her ‘willpower’ but not so much her ‘won’t’ power especially around free samples.

Team 40s: Rachel Clissold is the co-creator of "The Rising Activation Deck," which draws from personal journeys and is infused with joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments. Through The Rising Activation Deck, she empowers individuals to discover untapped depths of their souls and step into their true potential.

Team 50s: Katrina Fox told other people’s stories for more than 20 years as a journalist. Now she helps business leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers find, craft and share stories to inspire, influence and impact their audiences through strategic storytelling. A glitter-loving disco queen, she’s just starting to tell her own stories.

Team 60s: Terri Ayliffe is an artist, photographer and a community mentor. She also writes a monthly column on mental health for a local publication. The girl, who grew up in Mt Druitt on the financial and cultural edge of Sydney now lives on the Grand Pacific drive south of Sydney looking out over the blue pacific. She shares her coastal home with her Husband, a lifetime collection of books, musical instrument, art and a dog named Nikita. Terri has two daughters and two grandchildren. If she is not spending time with them, she is in her studio, painting, writing or sitting quietly watching the horizon as she lets her unburdened child’s mind imagine all sorts of wonderful things. 

Team 70s: Tiang Nee Lim. Malaysian Chinese came to Sydney in 1972. One of 16 children. Qualifications in health, education, Psychology, Business, cooking and dementia care. Eclectic professions. 1991, on Minister Chadwick’s advisory committee on CALD Women’s issues. 1992, established TAFE’s 1st ELICOS Centre for international students. Grandmother, stand-up comedian and writer featured in the film SUKA, Singaporean play BOOM@ KXT BROADWAY and coconutface comedy Who Invented Moussaka.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Sarah Gaul and Christine Ryan. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

As women, we experience a complicated, life-long relationship with our bodies. Our society has strict if often unspoken guidelines as to how a woman must present herself and monitor her body. Weight is a constant source of anxiety for many of us as walk the tightrope of pleasure and discipline in a world where thin privilege and fat prejudice is undeniable. The colour of our skin affects so much of our experience and identity, often coming with an entire universe of preconceived notions. Some of us will have children, where the biological functions of the body reign supreme. All of us are aging, transforming our skin with brushstrokes of wrinkles, another strange experience we must face in the mirror every single day.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Sophie Hardy is a 21 year-old aspiring film-maker. Throughout her teenage years, Sophie starred in the soap opera 'Neighbours' as Lacy Lane and has partaken in several other acting and modelling roles. Sophie cares very strongly for women's rights and hopes to make films depicting the messages she is most passionate about one day.

Team 30s: Ana Uribe (she/her) was born in the lands of the Muiscas, Colombia, travelled parts of the world since the age of 11 and now lives on Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung country. She works as a trauma-informed somatic therapist, educator and embodiment facilitator and specializes in mental health, trauma healing and plant medicine integration. Ana is on a mission to create safer spaces in our bodies and out in the world.

Team 40s: Anna Manuel is a children’s storyteller, voiceover narrator and educator. She jazzes up children’s programs with stories to keep children and adults alike curious, engaged and creative. She continues to navigate the intricate influence of her own skin - colour, smell and shape - on the fascinating twists of her life's path.

Team 50s: Tania Dalton is a 55-year-old post-menopausal woman, on a mission to empower others. With nearly 30 years as a Personal Trainer and recent accreditation as a Health Coach, she is driven by her father's early passing. Tania is dedicated to unraveling the secrets of aging well and wants to spread awareness about the transformative changes post-menopause.

Team 60s: Jacinta Halloran is a novelist, family therapist and medical doctor who believes wholeheartedly in the power of words – both written and spoken – to transform, heal and deepen our understanding of each other. A former Board member of the Stella Prize, her latest novel is RESISTANCE (Text Publishing, 2023).

Team 70s: Suzanne McCourt’s debut novel, The Lost Child, (Text Publishing) was a finalist in the 2015 Miles Franklin Award. Her latest novel, The Tulip Tree, begins in Ukraine as Russia invades 100 years ago. She is currently completing a short story collection that includes her prize-winning novella, The Last Taboo. Suzanne introduced the Story Dogs Literacy Program into Victorian primary schools and has also published a series of gift books on old dogs. She has recently taken up swimming. In the bay. In winter. Without a wetsuit. 

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

As women, we experience a complicated, life-long relationship with our bodies. Our society has strict if often unspoken guidelines as to how a woman must present herself and monitor her body. Weight is a constant source of anxiety for many of us as walk the tightrope of pleasure and discipline in a world where thin privilege and fat prejudice is undeniable. The colour of our skin affects so much of our experience and identity, often coming with an entire universe of preconceived notions. Some of us will have children, where the biological functions of the body reign supreme. All of us are aging, transforming our skin with brushstrokes of wrinkles, another strange experience we must face in the mirror every single day.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Stephanie Ho is an avid adventurer and university student. In 2022, bored by the international travel restrictions imposed by COVID-19, she decided to run from Canberra to Sydney to raise funds for a school in rural Nepal which she once taught at. In May 2023 she completed a goal that was years in the making. She skied across Greenland, covering 580km over 29 days

Team 30s: Eva Georgina Marie is a clinical psychologist, comedian, and dancer. It’s a strange combination of skills but it’s also very handy. If she can’t help you find solutions to your problems, she will help you feel better about all the wrong decisions that you’ve made because she has most probably made worse decisions than you have. And if that fails, she can always cheer you up by helping you shake your booty. She’s also a PhD candidate and an author.

Team 40s: Suzanne Waldron is a behaviorist, humanitarian, and curator. She's an ambassador for R U OK?, Nakuru Hope, the founder of 5 Women, and Board director of Soundfair. Suzanne has been nominated for many incredible awards, and mostly comes second! Fairness drives her, creativity and love sustain her.

Team 50s: Dr. Kate Forsyth is an award-winning novelist, poet, and storyteller. Her books include "The Crimson Thread," a reimagining of ‘The Minotaur in the Labyrinth’ myth set in Crete during World War II, and "Bitter Greens," a retelling of ‘Rapunzel’ which won the 2015 American Library Association award for Best Historical Fiction.

Team 60s: Kiran Shah was born and raised in Singapore. She's had a varied career as a social worker and early childhood educator, having lived and worked in the U.S., Japan, and Sri Lanka. Kiran became a professional storyteller 20 years ago, performing for all age groups and conducting workshops to teach storytelling. She's attended storytelling festivals in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, and Iran. When she's not storytelling, she enjoys growing vegetables and herbs in her garden in the Blue Mountains, a place she now calls home.

Team 70s: Noelene Turton. At 70, this dynamic doctor took a bold leap into animation, pausing her practice for a semester. An aspiring children's Sci-Fi author, she's wrapped up a first draft. Her filmmaking flair shone with a lauded feature at Houston International Film Festival, though she'll admit, many shorts had their own tales to tell.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Louise James, Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

This month, our multi-generational line-up share outrageous, funny, and jaw-dropping tales of dramatic action.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Sarah Carroll is an award winning Pasifika queer and neurodiverse writer, performer and producer working on Dharug Land (Western Sydney). Sarah has two successful one woman shows under her belt, ‘Cherry’ (Sydney Fringe Award Winners and Hollywood Fringe Nominee) and ‘Unkissed’ (Developed with Shopfront – ArtsLab). They also run their own production company Sour Cherry Productions.

Team30s: Sarah Liz King is an accredited Exercise Physiologist and Health Coach. Sarah is passionate about nourishing the body and mind with scientific facts and hosts The Holistic Health Radio podcast.

Team40s: Sophie Phan. Growing up the eldest female child in the shadow of her well-educated, success-driven family, Sophie was over-managed, overlooked and assumed of underachieving. When she tired of being told she was too quiet and timid, Sophie embarked on a drastic journey to take back her own life.

Team50s: Nathy Gaffney is a performance coach, speaker and podcaster. Her podcast ‘Suck it & See’ explores life’s messy lessons through the lenses of curiosity, hope and humour. Her early professional years were spent performing – singing and dancing on stage and screen (and on top of the occasional table!) She now coaches others on how to build presence and confidence, and at 59 proudly declares herself ‘A Work in Progress’.

Team60s: Dr Rebecca Johinke is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Discipline of English at the University of Sydney. She is a feminist who loves action films, going to the gym, and Wordle. As someone who has only recently learned to cook, she makes a mean sausage roll.

Team70s: Beverly Baker has been instrumental in the establishment and running of a number of charities, notably the FSHD Global Research Foundation. Bev is a committed feminist. She is current CEO of the Aboriginal Education Council. Beverly brings her energy and enthusiasm to assisting older women retain their dignity and relevance in a society that too easily marginalises them. Beverly is currently Chair of the Board for the Older Women's Network in NSW.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

This month, our multi-generational line-up share outrageous, funny, and jaw-dropping tales of dramatic action.

Our performer line up:

Team 20s: Vish Pillai is a young Indian woman who embarked on an exciting journey to Australia at 18 to pursue her dreams in chemical engineering. However, destiny had other plans for her. Today, she is a proud business owner, running a delightful bakery in Elwood. She's truly passionate about her work and believes in spreading joy through her acts of service. Interacting with people is her happy place, and she loves creating wonderful memories through her delectable treats.

Team 30s: Ellen Mahoney is a fierce and fearless woman in her thirties. As a writer and comedian, Ellen has honed her craft to combine wit, satire, and a keen feminist perspective into her work. Her life's journey has shaped her unique viewpoint, surrounded by the strength and resilience of women.

Team 40s: Iolanthe Gabrie is a sought-after digital marketing authority, business mentor, speaker and author with a focus on the startup space. Iolanthe shares her passion and expertise for business via her social media agency Ruby Assembly and on her podcast, Sell Less. Mean More.

Team 50s: Gayelene Carbis is an award-winning Australian/Irish/Cornish/Chinese writer of poetry, prose and plays. Her first book of poetry Anecdotal Evidence (Five Islands Press) was awarded Finalist in the 2019 International Book Awards for Poetry. Recent awards/shortlistings include: first prize in the My Brother Jack Poetry Award; finalist in the Bruce Dawe Poetry Prize; and finalist in the Woorilla Poetry Awards (Commended).

Team 60s: Donna Ward has been a social worker, psychotherapist, editor and publisher. She advocates for single women without children, and she is published in the Griffith Review, Westerly, Southerly and Island Magazines, Huffington Post, and The Big Issue. Her memoir is, She I Dare Not Name: A Spinster’s Meditations on Life.

Team 70s: Jane Sullivan came to Australia from England in 1979 and worked for the Age as a reporter, feature writer and editor of various sections, including the books pages. Jane won the inaugural Australian Human Rights Award for journalism. She has previously published two novels, The White Star (Penguin Australia) and Little People (Scribe Publications), which was shortlisted for the Encore Award for a second novel. Jane's first non-fiction book, “Storytime”, was published by Ventura Press. Jane currently writes ‘Turning Pages’, a Saturday column on books and writing, for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Rebecca Lister. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

This month, we invited our superstar line-up to share with us a story of hope—something big or small that gave them a reason to have faith in this world. Maybe they found hope in a practice, or a place, or some hard-won personal growth. Their little light of hope might be tied to the emotional, the political, the social, or the sexual (you know we love a sexy story at Generation Women!). Whatever our line-up cares to share, you can expect our usual blend of warmth and wisdom from performers of all ages, here to provide some inspiration and insight as we journey through this mad thing called life.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Ashleigh Streeter-Jones is an activist, founder, speaker, writer and advisor lifting the floor to close gender inequality gaps locally, nationally and internationally. Ashleigh has been recognised by the Foundation of Young Australians as one of the Young Social Pioneers, was named the youngest ever Australian Capital Territory Woman of the Year and on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2018.

Team 30s: Sunanda Sachatrakul is a Melbourne International Comedy Festival Best Newcomer nominee and screenwriter. They’re from New Delhi, Bangkok, New York and Los Angeles all at once. Sunanda moved to Melbourne for love in 2019, and now performs stand up around Melbourne, collaborates with award-winning groups, and is currently developing some screen projects.

Team 40s: Clementine Ford is a writer, broadcaster and feminist community builder. She is the bestselling author of the feminist manifestos Fight Like A Girl and Boys Will Be Boys, which have also been published to great acclaim in the UK and the US. In 2017, she won the Matt Richell Award for Best New Writer of the Year at the ABIAs. Her most recent book is How We Love: Notes on a life.

Team 50s: Emilie Collyer writes poetry, plays and prose, published and produced widely in Australia and internationally. Her poetry book Do you have anything less domestic? (Vagabond Press 2022) won the Five Islands Press Prize. She is currently under commission with Red Stitch Theatre and is the 2023 Melbourne Athenaeum Library writer-in-residence.

Team 60s: Lyn Yeowart is a consulting writer and editor, and author of the award-winning bestseller The Silent Listener, a psychological thriller based on events from her childhood. She’s self-assured and shy…boisterous and mild…hilarious and solemn…fascinating and boring…profound and shallow…hard-working and lazy…honest and deceptive…it all depends on her perspective—and yours.

Team 70s: Mig Dann is a Naarm/ Melbourne-based artist, writer and researcher who completed her PhD in 2022. Her work is informed by memory and forgetting, absence and presence, feminism, queer culture and decades of lived experience. Her work has been exhibited both internationally and nationally in solo and group shows.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Devi Palanisamy. Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

This month, we invited our superstar line-up to share with us a story of hope—something big or small that gave them a reason to have faith in this world. Maybe they found hope in a practice, or a place, or some hard-won personal growth. Their little light of hope might be tied to the emotional, the political, the social, or the sexual (you know we love a sexy story at Generation Women!). Whatever our line-up cares to share, you can expect our usual blend of warmth and wisdom from performers of all ages, here to provide some inspiration and insight as we journey through this mad thing called life.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Amanda Seedhouse, originally from the UK, recently completed her PhD in quantum physics and is currently a researcher in Sydney. She volunteers in the charity Quantum Women and, outside of the quantum realm, crochet and bouldering keep her occupied. 

Team 30s: Divya Vaman is a writer, actor, stand-up comedian and now storyteller. Her comedy material touches on her childhood, indian family members and her adult life in the big city. She has written and performed in comedy sketches that are accessible on her YouTube Channel, Divya Vaman. You can catch her at a gig in Sydney sometime. 

Team 40s: Dr Jess McLean is an Associate Professor at Macquarie University. As a geographer, she focuses on water cultures, climate and feminist activism, and digital spaces of change. She grew up in Mudgee, Wiradjuri Country, in an excellent family of twelve people and is a single mum of an amazing teenage boy. 

Team 50s: Beth Armstrong is a director of film and television, writer and live storyteller, she is also a single mum of two girls.  Beth’s award-winning podcast, Curveball - The Club You Didn’t Want To Be Part Of is a podcast about life's unexpected moments with a black comedy tell-it-like-it-is approach.

Team 60s: Jane Caro AM is a Walkley Award winning Australian columnist, author, novelist, commentator and advertising writer. She has published thirteen books, including her debut adult fiction novel, The Mother, her memoir, Plain-Speaking Jane, as well as Just a Girl and Just a Queen. Jane appears frequently on Nine Today Extra and Today.

Team 80s: Eva Cox AO is a long time social activist, starting as a refugee from Hitler. She is an Austrian-born Australian writer, feminist, sociologist, social commentator and activist.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted Louise James, Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

This month, we’re inviting our sassy storytellers to tell us about the time they broke the bias and didn’t act very “ladylike” AT ALL. Maybe they (gasp) were rude, lewd, or very, very nude. Maybe they realized they weren’t “ladies” at all (we all know gender is a construct). Maybe they spoke up, spoke out, and stuck it to the man. We’re here for all of it, and you should be too. Join us for a joyful night of dancing around a roaring bonfire of gender expectations!

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Bridget Hassed is a Melbourne born, Brisbane raised, Sydney based writer. Unafraid to show her dark side, she explores the oddities of society and everyday life. Bridget finds hilarity in her frustrations with the world around her, as well as her own faults - shining a light through the numerous holes in her personality.

Team 30s: He Huang grew up in a secluded town in the southwest region of China. She went to the U.S. for a master’s degree and returned to China six years later with a passion for stand-up comedy instead. Blessed by her traditional southern Chinese upbringing and endless existential crisis, she gets to explore different cultures and integrate them into her edgy, anecdotal, sometimes raunchy jokes.

Team 40s: Brook McCarthy is a writer, speaker, trainer and business coach with 15 years’ experience in digital communications. Brook loves the art and science of communication, persuasion and influence. She spends her time teaching small business owners how to leverage all three to maximise their online reach. Brook is located in Sydney, Australia when she’s not off somewhere, galavanting around.

Team 50s: Yumi Lee is a shameless beggar for good causes. She has worked in communications and fundraising for many decades, often in a voluntary capacity. She was involved in the women’s peace movement in Australia and worked on issues related to violence against women in armed conflict. She’s now CEO of the Older Women’s Network NSW, advocating for an end to homelessness and violence against older women.

Team 60s: Lu Lu Joy, at fourteen, whilst singing in church, secretly began changing the pronouns of the hymn lyrics, making God a woman. Ever since, she’s been courting diversity and breaking biases. Labelled too caring, too colourful and too committed, LuLu’s all too happy to share a story from her eccentric, down-side-up life.

Team 80s: Diane Barkas is a Wollongong-based comedian who's comedy is all about love, senior sex and lack of senior sex. She has performed at the Merrigong Vault, toured with TheVault and has performed at The Mittagong Theatre and The Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Louise James, Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

This month, we’re inviting our sassy storytellers to tell us about the time they broke the bias and didn’t act very “ladylike” AT ALL. Maybe they (gasp) were rude, lewd, or very, very nude. Maybe they realized they weren’t “ladies” at all (we all know gender is a construct). Maybe they spoke up, spoke out, and stuck it to the man. We’re here for all of it, and you should be too. Join us for a joyful night of dancing around a roaring bonfire of gender expectations!

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Nicole Conception is a business coach who is on a mission to help women move out of the hustle and into more flow, teaching them to work with their mind and bodies to access new levels and possibilities with ease.

Team 30s: Jen Ward is a writer, comic, procrastinator, black belt in Karate, Family Feud auditionee and garlic bread aficionado. She uses comedy to navigate complexities of life, and tries to see the lighter side. Jen is intensely proud of her ‘willpower’ but not so much her ‘won’t’ power especially around free samples.

Team 40s: Katia Ariel is an author, book editor and educator from Melbourne/Naarm. She was born in Odessa, Ukraine. She was a recipient of the Varuna Residential fellowship in 2022 and has been published in a variety of literary journals, including Womankind and Antithesis. Her memoir, The Swift Dark Tide, published by Gazebo Books in 2023, chronicles the discovery of queerness later in life, as well as the history of desire and rebellion in her female line.

Team 50s: Maha Sidaoui has been writing for more than thirty years. First letters, then lyrics and later stories. Maha has a deep passion for words and a desire to explore her own personal journey through her stories. Maha searches her childhood and early years for whatever it was that made her the person and author that she has become. 

Team 60s:  Wendi Bradshaw is a recently retired nephrology nurse, of forty years ‘vintage’. She now enjoys a relaxed life of art, writing, reading and friends. In 2021 she was nominated ‘Autumn Digital Writer in Residence’ for Peninsula Writers’ Club, and she made the longlist for the 2022 ‘Furphy literary awards’.

Team 70s: EV Ratnam (Enid Ratnam-Keese) is a Visual artist, Printmaker and Writer. She has works in Public collections in Australia, France and Italy. She counteracts the major setbacks in life by writing and creating micro gardens around her home . So far, a moss garden, a fern garden and a red garden.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Rebecca Lister, Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

This month, we want to hear what’s in our performers’ hearts. A Love Letter To… invites our superstar storytellers to share with us an ode to something that they hold dear, that’s an important part of their story. Maybe it’s birth control or being brave or babka. Maybe it’s something that’s always sparked joy for them, or maybe they’ll share with us a more complex idea, person, or theme that they’ve come to love over the years. One things for sure: you’re not going to want to miss this lovely show.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Grace Zhang is a comedian and writer. Her comedic style is much like her concept of identity and selfhood - she doesn't quite know what it is yet, but she's having a great time finding out.

Team 30s: Tess Birch is the first ever lawyer to become a comedian. In 2023 performed her standup comedy show 'Work Life Balance' at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. When she's not doing law or comedy, Tess volunteers with Girl Guides Victoria and helps run Loch Hart Music Festival.

Team 40s: Cath Moore is an award-winning filmmaker and author. Her debut novel Metal Fish Falling Snow won the 2021 Prime Minister’s award for YA fiction. She is a contributing author in the recently released anthology Family, out now through Text. Cath also teaches in the creative writing department at Melbourne University.

Team 50s: Ingrid Laguna is an award-winning novelist and educator. She has published a memoir and numerous books for children. Her work has been published internationally, featured by Reading Australia and given Notable recognition by the CBCA.

Team 60s: Donna Ward has been a social worker, psychotherapist, editor and publisher. She advocates for single women without children, and she is published in the Griffith Review, Westerly, Southerly and Island Magazines, Huffington Post, and The Big Issue. Her memoir is, She I Dare Not Name: A Spinster’s Meditations on Life.

Team 70s: Kate Rowe. Pommy by birth, Aussie by choice, ageing lesbian feminist, 78er, clean and sober 45 years, childhood sexual abuse and rape survivor, travel adventurer, health and exercise nut, retired triathlete, recent ukulele player, tactless direct talker and all-round pain in the butt with a sense of humour.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Rebecca Lister, Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

This month, we want to hear what’s in our performers’ hearts. A Love Letter To… invites our superstar storytellers to share with us an ode to something that they hold dear, that’s an important part of their story. Maybe it’s birth control or being brave or babka. Maybe it’s something that’s always sparked joy for them, or maybe they’ll share with us a more complex idea, person, or theme that they’ve come to love over the years. One things for sure: you’re not going to want to miss this lovely show.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Caitlin Thai works in Finance and is a strong lover of coffee. She would describe this era of her life as a balancing act between navigating through the chaos and making reluctant but necessary adulting decisions of her twenties. 

Team 30s: Kylie Flament is a woman on a mission to make the world a better place through business, or "social enterprise". With the head of a business and the heart of a charity, social enterprise is the middle path that is gaining traction all over the world and Kylie has been a passionate advocate of it for years, including running a sprawling, award-winning social enterprise called Green Connect that employed more than 100 young people and former refugees at any given time to do environmental work. She is a changemaker, storyteller, and a recently separated mum of two. A friend to many, the kind of neighbour you can drop in on unannounced to ask for a cup of tea, a word of advice or a sprig of parsley from the garden, and a woman who can hold her own in a room full of men in suits.

Team 40s: Miriam Hechtman is a writer, producer and poet. She is the founder and creative director of Poetica, a live poetry and music initiative and editor of The Alphabet of Women (Ginninderra Press 2022). She is also the program director of Sydney Jewish Writers Festival. Miriam lives with her husband, two daughters and dog.

Team 50s: Irina Castellano is an authorized foster carer who’s dedicated to providing safe homes for vulnerable children. Her work has been featured in a dozen podcasts, a book, articles, as well as radio interviews like with SBS German Radio and The Meaningful Monday Radio Show. She runs the nationally accredited Foster Carer Programs and Adoption seminars. Along with her husband and three children, Irina has provided a home to over seventy-five children.

Team 60s: Tiang Nee Lim is Malaysian Chinese and came to Sydney in 1972. She is one of 16 children and has qualifications in health, education, Psychology, Business and cooking. In 1991, she was on Minister Chadwick’s advisory committee on CALD Women’s issues. In 1992, she established TAFE’s 1st ELICOS Centre for international students. She is a Grandmother, stand-up comedian, writer and wannabe famous actor.

Team 80s: Dr Anne Ring is a well-rounded social scientist, as a health sociologist with qualifications in psychology and anthropology. At 80, having combined her lifelong love of writing with her burgeoning research into and experience of ageing, she completed her first book: Engaging with Ageing: What matters as we grow older.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Mandy Nolan, Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

We've all got secrets. We’ve all told lies. This month, we’re inviting our superstar storytellers to tell us a tale about something we don’t know about them. Maybe it’ll be a real I-know-what-you-did-last-summer secret (what happens at the Beresford, stays at the Beresford. As always, expect our usual blend of heartfelt and hilarious as we celebrate six generations of storytellers. Whether it’s a confession, confidential, or clandestine, this month at Generation Women, it’s time to spill!

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Tiara De Silva is a human rights and youth mental health advocate, as well as a Youth Ambassador, and first ever Youth Director for ReachOut Australia.

Team 30s: Janice Lovelock, a Civil engineer,  enjoyed her profession and had aspirations for a bright, yet fairly ‘typical’ future, but life took an unexpected turn when she sustained a permanent spinal cord injury in April 2019, soon after the birth of her daughter. Now on the other side of recovery, Janice wants to tell all about her personal journey and help to destigmatize issues around women’s health.

Team 40s: Suzie Fagan originally hails from the Emerald Isle of Ireland and now lives on NSW's South Coast. She is a mum of 2 girls however she shared that she is still learning to grow up herself. “Some people train for marathons as a way to challenge themselves as they get older, but the thought of exercising for that long SCARES THE BEJAWS out of me, so I’d rather take on things like sharing a story at Generation Women.”

Team 50s: Anne McKeown is a woman who is loving the second half of life! As a coach and speaker she empowers other women to step up, speak up and show up with confidence. Her driver is to be a good role model for her daughters, Maris & Megan.

Team 60s: Dr Pauline Manley. Dancer, academic, teacher and writer. Feminist, music lover and gardener.  But most of all she is a survivor and a thriver. Pauline describes herself as "Burnished by life, I am a midlife woman doing what the hell she wants. If not now, when?"

Team 70s: Kate Rowe. Pommy by birth, Aussie by choice, ageing lesbian feminist, 78er,  clean and sober 45 years, childhood sexual abuse and rape survivor, travel adventurer, health and exercise nut, retired triathlete, recent ukulele player, tactless direct talker and all-round pain in the butt with a sense of humour.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Louise James, Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

We're all wild at heart. This, month, we invited our superstar storytellers to tell us a story of courage. A brazen moment, a fearless act, a time you stuck it to the man (or woman), and did things their way. Maybe they got divorced or quit their job or had a one-night-stand. Maybe they spoke up or acted out. Took the road less traveled or demanded more. These six true tales from our multigenerational line-up will inspire you, surprise you, and entertain us all. Join us in community at the iconic Howler for a life-affirming evening that’ll show you it’s never too late to make a bold move or big choice.

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Maziela Jorneo is an influencer, entrepreneur, and model who won Miss Don Bella Australia 2019. Maziela has collaborated with many well known Australian brands on media campaigns for television. She loves tattoos ,cars and food.

Team 30s: Isobelle MacFarlane works in Public Health, in the field of Breast Cancer. She would say she has had a colourful life, enduring many challenges including multiple chronic illnesses which can render life a juggling act at times. Isobelle describes herself as optimistic about the contributions she can make, and the joy she can find in life.

Team 40s:  Alexandra Collier is an award winning Melbourne writer who worked in New York for over a decade in theatre, TV, print and advertising. Her memoir Inconceivable, about becoming a solo mum by choice, will be published by Hachette in April 2023. In Australia, her plays have been produced and developed at Sydney Theatre Company, La Mama and the Hayes Theatre Co.

Team 50s:  Jo Deeker, aka Cherry Charleston, is a senior IT leader by day. In her 40s she discovered burlesque and by night is a professional performer and director of Phoenix - an over 50's burlesque troupe. She has learned to love her body, and proves that you are never too old to try something new!

Team 60s: Sally Goldner is an educator, speaker, MC and occasional performer. Her involvement in Victoria’s queer community has spanned more than twenty years. She has worked as executive director and treasurer of Transgender Victoria, presenter of 3CR’s queer program ‘Out of the Pan’, co-facilitator of Transfamily and treasurer of Bisexual Alliance Victoria. She is also a contributor to the 2018 book Living and Loving in Diversity.

Team 70s: Jen Jewel Brown. Author of Skyhooks Million Dollar Riff and co-author, with Tina Hutchence, of Michael, my brother: lost boy of INXS, Jen Jewel Brown has walked the planet for 70 freaking years. She's a bisexual, singleton, single mum of two young adults with five poetry books out and an ex-A&R Manager of Mushroom Records and Publishing, now working on a memoir.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Rebecca Lister, Produced by Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

This month, we're celebrating success so we’ve invited our superstar line-up to tell us a story about an achievement of any kind. Life is often marked by “big” achievements—getting published/sober/to the top of Mt Everest—but small achievements can also represent significant progress. Maybe the fact they kept a fig plant alive or finally reorganized that bottom drawer is a metaphor for positive change in their life. Whatever they care to share, you can expect our usual blend of warmth and wit in a feel-good show that’ll inspire you to keep striving for your achievements!

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Jenny Tian burst onto the stand-up comedy scene in 2016 and has since become a regular around the Comedy circuit. If you’re wondering why she looks familiar, you’ve probably seen/heard her on your Instagram reels, TikTok, triple j, ABC Breakfast Radio and Celebrity Letters and Numbers on SBS.

Team 30s: Elyse McInerney is a former amateur musical theatre star, a current amateur urban gardener, and a willing servant to the two cats she spontaneously adopted during lockdown. Her career has focused on the pursuit of social justice and gender equality, and she is a strong believer in the power of stories to create connection and positive change.

Team 40s: Laura Conti is an AAICD, a CA and a CPA. She worked for 17 years in Finance, starting out in consulting, and moving to Industry as a Finance leader inside small high growth business and digital/technology corporate teams. In 2019 Laura Co-founded social enterprise #GoKindly – a bed and bath brand which supports women from underrepresented backgrounds with meaningful employment and uses the proceeds to support women experiencing homelessness and housing stress. She also works in advocacy for women from/leaving Fundamentalist Christian groups.

Team 50s: Dr Pauline Manley. Dancer, academic, teacher and writer. Feminist, music lover and gardener.  But most of all she is a survivor and a thriver. Pauline describes herself as "Burnished by life, I am a midlife woman doing what the hell she wants. If not now, when?"

Team 60s: Leah Nischler is a published writer and playwright, comedian, performer and political tragic. She regularly watches re-runs of the West wing and for the past year has written content for online campaign, The Age of Visibility, which seeks to highlight beauty as we age.

Team 70s: Jaynie Anderson AM OSI FAHA is Professor Emeritus at the University of Melbourne. She is an art historian, curator of exhibitions and fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities. She is known for her research on Giorgione, a sixteenth-century Venetian painter.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, Melbourne in 2020, and Canberra in 2022. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+. 

Hosted by Rebecca Lister, Produced by Brooke Farmer & Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

This month, we're celebrating success so we’ve invited our superstar line-up to tell us a story about an achievement of any kind. Life is often marked by “big” achievements—getting published/sober/to the top of Mt Everest—but small achievements can also represent significant progress. Maybe the fact they kept a fig plant alive or finally reorganized that bottom drawer is a metaphor for positive change in their life. Whatever they care to share, you can expect our usual blend of warmth and wit in a feel-good show that’ll inspire you to keep striving for your achievements!

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Edan Mcgovern is a stand-up comedian (RAW Comedy State Finalist), recording artist, Tiktoker, musical theatre performer and Sydney Fringe Award nominated playwright and composer. She is also a snowboard instructor, just to show some range.

Team 30s: Thalia-Joan is a multifaceted artist who has been gracing the stand up comedy scene over the last 5 years. A writer, poet, actress, public speaker and singer you can be sure to catch her performing somewhere new each week. Thalia- Joan has an immense passion for story telling across a range of mediums engaging audiences leaving them wanting more. 

Team 40s: Amy Loader

Team 50s: Melissa Stefano is a washed-up 80's jazz dancer, professional shower singer and mastering the art of boho-ing around. Melissa founded Cancer Confidence: A social enterprise revolutionising the traditional ‘cancer support group’, exclusively for people who reject war-mongering, the ***k cancer, attitude and toxic positivity.

Team 60s: Cuc Nguyen came to Australia as a refugee from VN over 40 years ago. After retiring from a long career with Australia Post, she took up theater and found a new passion in life. Cuc now tours and performs with the Older Women’ s Network Theater Group as part of their newest show - Not Dead Yet!

Team 70s: Christine Sykes retired from a senior public servant role, took up tap dancing and reinvented herself as a successful author. She has three published books, the latest being The Tap Cats of the Sunshine Coast. Both her previous books - Gough and Me: My Journey from Cabramatta to China and Beyond, and The Changing Room, won awards from the Society of Women Writers.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, and Melbourne in 2020. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+.

Hosted by Alice Brennan, Produced by Brooke Farmer & Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.

In honour of our fourth year in Australia (!!!), we're celebrating all things "anniversary." Technically an anniversary celebrates something that happened on a certain date in the previous year, but we’re bending the rules. Perhaps we'll hear a story about a one-week anniversary or one-day anniversary. Maybe our storytellers will unlock a memory in their past and have the chance to reflect on the fact this year is the 10 or 20 or 50 year anniversary of becoming a working woman/Royal super-fan/fighter pilot/former smoker. Maybe something memorable happened at an anniversary event they attended, or maybe someone's parents’ wedding anniversaries inspired a funny or poignant story. Regardless of the inspiration, it's party time on the Generation Women stage as we end the year, and you're all invited to the celebration!

Our performer line-up:

Team 20s: Montana Papadinis is an Actor and Comedian from Melbourne. Being a woman in comedy can be hard but she won’t let that stop her from making people laugh and inspiring other young women to chase their dreams. Photo credit: Liv Morison 

Team 30s: Armita Abdollahyan works with refugee and migrant women helping them in their settlement journey in Australia. Armita herself came to Australia from Iran seven years ago. Armita is recently involved in the Australian Women- Life-Freedom campaign supporting the current revolution in Iran.

Team 40s: Nicole Gurd is a mother, a lover, a student, a friend, and a work in progress. Nicole facilitates mindful movement workshops and develops programs for public high schools. She feels all the feels, all the time - and loves to write about it!

Team 50s: Jo Devlin was born in England to an Irish father and English mother in a very working-class area. She's had 3 lives; hairdresser; psychiatric nurse and social worker. Her passions are attachment theory, family violence, and dogs.  Jo is currently a national family violence specialist for The Salvation Army, after leaving the role of director at Safe Steps. Jo is a staunch feminist for many years, also known for bar fights and heavy drinking.  

Team 60s: Karyn Siegmann is a librarian who spent most of her career managing public libraries. After being made unexpectedly redundant three years ago she continues to consult to public libraries and is a qualified celebrant.

Team 70s: Sylvie Leber has worked in education, science, community, media, the performing and visual arts, most notably in the music industry. She's a human rights activist involved in setting up Victoria's first rape crisis centre, the Women's Theatre Group and RRR's Give Men-a-Pause show. Her song 'Intoxicated' is on the Brazen Hussies doco soundtrack.

Generation Women is an award-winning cross-generational storytelling night founded in New York in 2017, Sydney in 2018, Melbourne in 2020, and Canberra in 2022. Each month, six women of note read an original piece on a theme. Of those women, one is in her 20s, her 30s, her 40s, her 50s, her 60s, and her 70s+. 

Hosted by Dee Palanisamy, Produced by Brooke Farmer & Donna Logue, Hopepunk Productions. Created by Georgia Clark.