Empower women this September, Become a "Woman for World"

Every day in every country in the world, systemic discrimination robs women and girls of the opportunities to earn, learn and lead. Women make up more than half of the world's poor and face systemic discrimination in education, employment, healthcare, control of assets and participation.

Caritas Australia, part of one of the largest humanitarian networks in the world, is encouraging its' supporters to help end this injustice and to celebrate female empowerment by attending the annual Women for the World luncheon at 12 noon on Thursday September 12 at the Royal Canberra Golf Club, Yarralumla.

Funds raised will go towards Caritas programs in 22 countries across Africa, Asia, the Pacific and with Australia's First Peoples.

With the assistance of a volunteer team, Lulu Mitshabu, Caritas Australia's Canberra based Community Engagement Leader, has organised the fundraiser. Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Lulu works for Caritas on programs which are focused on improving the lives of women and girls.

"Women serve as the backbones of their families, workplaces and communities," said Ms Mitshabu.

"Yet they often fewer rights, fewer resources and opportunities to realise their potential. By bringing together those that are passionate about gender equality and utilising their networks we can help to end poverty."

Award - winning journalist and author Genevieve Jacobs will host the luncheon.

During the event, guests will be addressed by International gender, human trafficking and migration expert Mungreiphy Shimray. A twenty- year veteran of Caritas India, Shimray as she prefers to be called, oversees the joint Caritas Australia and Caritas India Self–Help initiative. During the luncheon, she will share stories with the guests on how the initiative has strengthened the capacity of women to respond to issues that directly impact their lives including domestic violence.

Caritas Australia supporters unable to attend the luncheon, this year also have the opportunity to host their own Women for the World fundraising event.

These events, which can be held at home, in workplaces, schools, or in the community at large, can take the form of a simple morning tea, movie night, team lunch or a dinner party.

Last year thanks to our supporters, Caritas Australia assisted two million directly through our emergency and development programs.

Tickets for the Women for the World luncheon priced at $130 can be purchased by visiting: https://www.womenfortheworld.org.au/canberra or by calling 1800 024 113.