GLOUCESTER Transitions Inc brought the community together for a powerful and uplifting afternoon exploring social justice, modern slavery and the strength of community connection on Saturday, 7 March.
Around 75 locals attended the “Hidden in Plain Sight – Connection with Purpose” event, many arriving with homemade cakes to share.
A highlight of the afternoon was a panel of local women who shared stories about their work and passions.
“Donna Kemp, Diann Relf, Nat Simshauser, Anna Burley, Sophie Lenehan, Laura Fraser, Dominique Jacobs and Taylah Eyre-Hughes spoke about their involvement in Gloucester and beyond, reminding us of the many ways people quietly contribute to making our community stronger,” Gloucester Transitions said in a statement.
Guest speaker Sonja Duncan delivered a thought-provoking presentation titled “33 Slaves Work for Me”.
Her talk explored the reality that modern slavery still exists around the world and that most of us are unknowingly connected to it through everyday global supply chains.
While confronting at times, Sonja’s message encouraged people to think about the choices we make and how awareness can lead to positive change.
Julie Lyford shared a short photographic journey through northern India and the work of Voices4Freedom, an organisation helping entire villages escape bonded slavery.
Her presentation showed how communities can work together to create real change and opened the door for future local fundraising to support this life-changing work.
The afternoon concluded with a lively community conversation facilitated by Louise Duff, where attendees shared ideas about the future of Gloucester and what matters most to them.
Themes that emerged included:
- Supporting safe and empowered young people
- Caring for our elders
- Building ethical, sustainable communities
- Strengthening diversity and inclusion
- Creating opportunities for safe, active and equal participation for women
Gloucester Transitions extended thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the day, especially Richard Birdsey, Vicki Coombes, Pam Hannaford, Jenny Lindsay, Garry Lyford, Pippa Robinson and Dom Jacobs for their help behind the scenes.
Plans are already underway for the next community event in Autumn.
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