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.