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Liz believes the for-purpose sector thrives on the leadership of these women, yet it often fails to provide them with the stability and recognition they deserve.<\/p>\n
“Addressing this inequity should be a priority, ensuring\u00a0that those who dedicate themselves to community work are properly valued and supported,” she says.<\/p>\n
Steph Davie is the commercial property manager for Costa Asset Management, overseeing a commercial portfolio of about 45 sites which includes daily operations, leasing and capital upgrades for each of the sites.<\/p>\n
She was introduced to the for-purpose sector when she was elected to the board of the Lazarus Community Centre in 2021, and since then she has been responsible for grant management and fundraising at the centre before she was elected as its chair in 2023.<\/p>\n
At Lazarus, one of Steph’s most notable achievements has been the successful receipt of the Stage 1 permit for the centre’s refurbishment.<\/p>\n
“It has been a three-year process where we will successfully penetrate the Old Geelong Gaol, with approval required from Heritage Victoria,” she says.<\/p>\n
“The refurbished space will allow us to increase capacity for all, provide an updated kitchen for our wonderful volunteers, and provide our clients with additional showers, toilets, a new laundry and a far larger, more welcoming environment.”<\/p>\n
Steph believes women in Geelong are at the forefront when it comes to addressing critical social issues such as gender equality, homelessness, mental health and domestic violence.<\/p>\n
“Through leadership roles in organisations, women bring a unique perspective and their influence drives vital initiatives,” she says.<\/p>\n
“Women’s involvement in grassroots initiatives and volunteering is a crucial driver of community cohesion in Geelong, and women are often the backbone when it comes to organising events, building partnerships and leading boards to create stronger, more supportive communities.”<\/p>\n
Steph believes that every\u00a0day should be International Women’s Day.<\/p>\n
“The amount of heavy lifting conducted by women in the Geelong community is remarkable and it often goes unnoticed,”she says.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
CLOVERDALE Community Centre chief executive officer Liz Bonner has the privilege of leading an organisation that is deeply rooted in community development and social justice. Day-to-day, her role\u00a0is a balance of strategic\u00a0leadership, advocacy and hands-on support. “I work closely with our team, board and community partners\u00a0to ensure that we continue to provide vital programs and […]<\/p>\n