2026- HIGHLIGHTS

Days for Girls.

 https://salesforce.123formbuilder.com/form-2996130/  

 A donation will pay for one kit for one girl for 3 years so that they can attend school and move pass the stigma of period poverty. 

Further contacts 

E: fhelou@daysforgirls.org  Director Faye Helou, DfG Australia.

W: https://www.daysforgirls.org/australia

MAY _ Days for Girls.

Days for Girls  works to eliminate the stigma & limitations associated with menstruation so that women and girls have improved health, education and livelihoods. 

Faye Helou   DIRECTOR

A $25 donation here https://salesforce.123formbuilder.com/form-2996130/  

 A donation will pay for one kit for one girl for 3 years so that they can attend school and move pass the stigma of period poverty. 

Further contacts to donate.

E: fhelou@daysforgirls.org  Director Faye Helou, DfG Australia.

W: https://www.daysforgirls.org/australia

History

Days for Girls began in Australia in 2012 after Gloria Buttsworth had a visit from her friend, who runs a children’s home in northern Uganda. The two got talking about the girls in the home and particularly their hygiene needs. Most of the girls could not afford sanitary products, resulting in many of the girls missing school repeatedly, with many eventually dropping out. The question occurred to Gloria: ‘‘What can I do?’’

The answer appeared in the form of the Days for Girls International (DfGI) Menstrual Health Programs. Gloria contacted Celeste Mergens, the founder of DfGI and the rest is history. Since beginning in 2012 with 4 teams, Australia now has a network of volunteers who sew and distribute from every State and Territory Australia-wide.  Whole towns can be inspired to participate in DfGS. 

2024 - 2025 by Faye Helou Director

Looking back at the past 12 months with DfGS makes me very proud for many reasons. 

Days for Girls is becoming recognised within the local community as a leading force for women, both locally and overseas, as the Kits we provide empowers girls, enabling them to continue their education and move forward to a better life. 

Both of our volunteer groups are growing, and with that our productivity is increasing, ensuring that we reach many more girls than previously, changing lives as we go. 

The partnership established with Good 360, where our kits are placed with Australian girls that need them, enables us to actively participate in reducing period poverty in Australia, something we can all be very proud of, in these difficult economic times. 

Thank you to each and every one of our selfless volunteers for making DfGS not only impactful, but a fun group to belong to.

MLC School Program

We are excited to continue our partnership with MLC School as part of their School Service Program with a number of activities schedule during the year including a monthly Craft Club which will be held during the school girls lunch period and a big service day at the school.  

Meriden School Program

This is our third year partnering with Meriden School as part of their Year 9 pastoral program and conducting a number of Service Days where we will welcome 20 girls at a time at our Strathfield location for kit preparation activities and packing.  In previous years the activities have gone well, the girls have felt empowered knowing that they were contributing to making a significant impact in another girl’s life. 

University of NSW Volunteers United (UNSW - VU) Program

We are thrilled to also announce a new partnership with the University of NSW to provide a workshop for kit preparation activities and packing at our Strathfield location for 20 volunteers in support of their Good Deeds Day. 

We are very fortunate to have both Barbara and Donna on our Leadership Team as these Service Days require significant planning in preparation for these activities and to our generous volunteers for their time to help supervise and assist with the program. We cannot stress enough how these programs cannot go ahead without your support.  

President Sweta Gupta  -  Attended; spoke and enhancer her learning.

CWS69. United Nations New York.

Always Happy!

It's infectious!

After 10 months in hospital our wonderful sister Karen Pensabene was able to join us for BPWS's special International Night Tuesday 4th February. We are fortunate to have her as part of BPWS. 

MARCH  International Womens Day 

BPWStrathfield

We acknowledge and honour all the women past -present-future who worked tirelessly through the decades to advocate for a secure life for all women and girls.

“Accelerate Action,”

Youth Human Rights speaker:

Kanda Quinlan

Days For Girls speaker: 

Stephanie Ius

 Induction BPWS Member 

Margaret Mathews 

Tuesday 4th February. 

Congrats!

 International Night 5th February

2024 HIGHLIGHTS

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 5th 2024

We honoured our male support team. Who have supported us all in throughout our BPWStrathfield journey over the many years. 

DECEMBER 

**It's in the bag ** Collected over 40 Bags! Food Pantry Hip, Hip, Horray!

We delivered a huge pile of bags for the Food Pantry @ St Paul's. Rosemary King was delighted and Father James had the "biggest" smile ever. These generous gifts will provide much needed food for the families in our local area. Businesses provided us with bags, all we had to do was have the community to fill them with food. Thank You Fitbodz Gym and patrons, to BPWS members and friends and Burwood community for donations. Joy to you all.

Father James, Janette Weeding, Mary Demarco & Rosemary King. 

#bpws #bpwstrathfield  #bpwinternational  #bpw  #weps  #womenmeanbusiness #itsinthebag2025

BPWS & Fitbodz greatly value the insights and support provided by our local community -  “the hidden poverty “ that so many are silently suffering is growing.  Ms. Rosemary King a 2024 Burwood "Local Hero" heads the Outreach Program through St Paul's Church Burwood. For further details contact Janette - 0411135295 or just drop off a bag of items at  @ Fitbodz Gym -  Burwood Plaza - Railway Parade Burwood.

NOVEMBER @ National Council of Women Adelaide. 23/24 November.

BPW International Board- congratulations ladies!

November 13th. 

**Empowering Women’s Health and Well-being, Inside and Out**

✨ **Sanctuary by Thrive: A Skin Clinic for Women, Led by Women** ✨  

Had the pleasure to meet an extraordinary female doctor  concerned with helping the "whole woman". Sanctuary by Thrive is more than just a clinic; it's a space where women's health is truly understood. Led by award-winning GP & Aesthetic Physician Dr. Janina Grant, alongside highly qualified Registered Nurses and Dermal Clinicians, Sanctuary by Thrive offers advanced cosmetic medicine, laser, and skin treatments with an integrated focus on hormonal and metabolic health. Diet, vaginal, gut health and exercise. Janette Weeding BPWS Communications & Engagement.

11th Day of the 11th Month - "WE Will Remember Them"

Today, on Remembrance Day, Defence joins all Australians to observe one-minute silence to acknowledge, honour and remember those who have served our country in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. Many women have and do serve. We acknowledge them. Janette Weeding with Mayor John Faker (Burwood) and Keith Weeding (Rotary Burwood)

   Coffee and chat. 

   President Sweta and Margaret Matthew.

August 

Jean Arnot 2024

It was an honour to celebrate women at NSW Parliament. We were incredibly fortunate to even have 4 generations come together! Jean Arnot’s legacy for the past 30 years in recognising inspiring women in their 90’s for their extraordinary service to their communities has become a tradition where NCW NSW and BPW collaborate to organise this yearly event. 

It was delightful ti re-engage with the  Honourable Jodie Harrison MP Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault who presented this year’s 23 awardees with their recognition and whose presence added great significance to our celebration. What an honour at 90+

 AUGUST

Equal payday 2024

Theme: it doesn’t add up. 

Lead Speaker Patricia Abraham CEO Eurella

https://indd.adobe.com/view/6051ee53-6fcc-4cfc-a178-a1d1369e2684

Panel: President Sweta Gupta BPWS President & Faye Helou Days for Girls Director. 

Having three of us provide different perspectives from different experiences personalised the topic to resonate more amongst various audience members!

What an amazing event and what an amazing speaker(Patricia). The session was so engaging and informative. We all enjoyed the whole conversation and talk. Sweta Gupta BPWS President.

PRIDE OF WORKMANSHIP AWARDEES _ Burwood Rotary

CONGRATULAIONS.  

Patricia, Sweta Janette and Mary @ Burwood Rotary Pride of Workmanship Awards in recognition of Vocational Excellence, Personal Dedication and Effort. 

JUNE

JUNE: Here and Now. 

Brunch with Shirley Randel, BPWS Immediate Past President Janette Weeding and BPWStrathfield President SWETA GUPTA 8th May

MAY 20: Pride of Workmanship Award Citations Burwood Rotary 2024

Congratulations to all. Awards are in recognition of Vocational Excellence, Personal Dedication and Effort

Sweta Gupta - Business & Professional Women Strathfield (BPWS) President

Sweta Gupta, President of BPWS, was honoured for her exceptional leadership at the New York Conference in March 2024. Representing BPWS and BPW Australia, she advocated for women’s empowerment and gender equality, amplifying the voices of women in Sudan at the UN 68th session on the Status of Women. Sponsored by J & K Weeding Burwood Rotary

Sweta proudly holding her citation: Vocational Excellence, Personal Dedication and Effort.

Patricia Johnson - Australian Turf Club

Patricia Johnson was recognised for her 19 years of dedicated service to the Australian Turf Club. Her commitment to excellence; attention to detail; professionalism and tireless work ethic inspire her colleagues at theNaplan Centre. Sponsored by J & K Weeding Burwood Rotary

Janette Sweta and Patricia proudly holding our BPW Scarf. 

Glen Knox - Burwood Police Station, Duty Officer – Acting Inspector

Acting Inspector Glen Knox is committed to workplace and public safety. His specialist policing knowledge and experience as a police safety skills educator enhance team skills and improve systems for better outcomes.

Wayne Brown - George Weston Foods, Senior Flour Miller

Wayne has dedicated over 50 years to George Weston Foods. He transitioned from managing an old-style mill to one of the world’s most modern mills, demonstrating exceptional adaptability and dedication.

Emma Williams - Eurella Community Services, Volunteer – Lending A Hand:a dedicated volunteer with Eurella. Her group, Lending A Hand, has significantly contributed to client programs, demonstrating enthusiasm and commitment.

Anita Bhuta - Eurella Community Services, Client Engagement and Quality Coordinator:  ensures client goals and welfare are prioritised.Her kindness and expertise contribute significantly to the organisation.

Elena Barducci - Eurella Community Services, Volunteer – Student Placement:an invaluable supporter of Eurella and significantly improved client welfare and best practices.

Amina Adra - Eurella Community Services, Bookkeeper and Plan Manager:exemplifies Eurella’s values with her strong work ethic and positive attitude, making her a vital team member.

Nicole Butt -  Constitution Hill Retirement Village, Village Administration Officer: a proactive problem-solving make her an indispensable part of Constitution Hill Retirement Village.

Patricia, Sweta Janette and Mary @ Burwood Rotary Pride of Workmanship Awards in recognition of Vocational Excellence, Personal Dedication and Effort. 

MAY 
Where we successfully planned our meetings/events until April 2025. 

Check out our face book page for updates.

https://www.facebook.com/

NEW YORK CONFERENCE

10 - 22March 2024

United Nations 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)

BPWS President Sweta 

Honoured to light the candle for Australia

Candle light ceremony BPW International New York Conference. 

(International Federation of Business and Professional Women) is an influential international network of business and professional women from more than 100 countries in 5 continents with Consultative Status at ECOSOC/United Nations. Founded in 1930, BPW International develops the professional, leadership and business potential of women on all levels through mentoring, networking, skill building and economic empowerment programs and projects around the world.

MARCH - INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress. Based on the priority theme for the United Nations 68^th Commission on the Status of Women. Examines the pathways to greater economic inclusion for women and girls everywhere.

Thank you to all who attended. Schools; ACU students & Staff, and community. 

SPEAKERS:

1: Jordan Baker Journalist Chief Reporter of SMH

( https://www.facebook.com/watch?v=1002271434648633 )

2: Associate Professor Belinda von Mengerson Dean ACU

( https://www.facebook.com/BPWS2020/videos/7444359208934829/ )

3: Sweta Gupta BPWS President

(https://www.facebook.com/BPWS2020/videos/995121795653494 )

INTERNATIONAL:

1. Rozaini Nawawi, Inaugural President of the Federation of BPW Malaysia (2021-2024) 

 

3. Francesca Burack, BPW New York & Un Committee/CEO/President of Fearless Talent Development

3. Dr. Meena Karna, BPW Nepal & UN Committee  

Speaker Profiles: Speakers IWD_2024.pdf

February International Night & Candle Lighting Ceremony

This important ceremony is held during a special BPW members and friends meeting. As we light the candles, we honour members past, present and future; honour each of the countries represented, and the accomplishments made through their dedication to our Mission. The act of lighting a candle serves as a physical reminder of their presence, illuminating the room and symbolising the light they brought into our lives.

Guest Speaker: Mitra Shiva Hussaini

2023 HIGHLIGHTS

Collection for Christmas Food Pantry. Burwood Council, BPWS, Rotary etc

Helping hands for those in need: we are all here to help create a more secure and understanding world. 

Christmas "Kris Kringle" and "Mingle" celebrations 6th December. 

Volunteers High Tea Held by Strathfield Council 24NOV.

*** St Pauls ***

Reaching out to help those in need with Rosemary King 8th

November.

Special September Brunch meeting at Strathfield Council chambers with the newly elected Mayor. We are honoured again to have our BPWS member Karen Pensabene re-elected as Mayor Strathfield Council. 

Women take the lead - Strathfield Council elections.2023.pdf

Business and Professional Women Strathfield are supported by Burwood's Coronation Club. We congratulate Coro88 who helped spread the message that women's pay is 13% less on average to men.

Equal Pay Day Explained:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSbA5rq8U3A

Pay Gap in Women's sport - Australia 

https://www.wgea.gov.au/pay-and-gender/equal-pay-day-2023

AGM _  Wed7th June - Congratulations to all. As the outgoing President I would like to acknowledge the commitment, passion and hard work contributed by the members of BPWStrathfield. Without our women's collective we would have fewer shoulders to lean on.

Thank you. Past President Janette Weeding BPWS.   

President Janette and Vice President Sweta  (BPWStrathfield). Round-table consultative conference with Shadow Minister Sussan Ley. 18th May 2023.

Honoured to participate at the meeting were childcare, superannuation products and access, returning to work after a mid-career break, and the role of small businesses in securing financial independence. Here is a summary of the main points raised during the meeting: Roundtable Meeting Shadow Minister Sussan Ley 2023.pdf. Suggestions were made to allow employees to stay connected with their employers during maternity leave to maintain job security and career progression.

Bias and pressure faced by women returning to work, including part-time or job-sharing arrangements, were discussed, with concerns about workplace judgments and comments from both men and women.

The impact on mental health and the need for support during the transition back to work were highlighted.

Four key issues discussed:

1 childcare

2 women's participation in business

3 superannuation

4 mid-career break

Information about services within the Inner-West Sydney presented at the Community Services Expo 2023. With Mayors Pensabene (Strathfield) and Faker (Burwood) Special Guest Jason Yet-Sen Li (State local Member).

Sweta Gupta

- a voice to be reckoned with. SMH 23Feb2023. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sweta-gupta-9563a956/

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

 Burwood Safety Consultation Meeting 14/03/23

With Anthony (Outreach Youth Councillor)

*** IWD with Strathfield Council. 8th March. With Jana Pittman

Congratulations to our BPWS member Karen Pensabene  -Elected as Mayor of Strathfield Council 2022-23.

Candlelight Dinner 15th February. We were delighted to have Margaret Tipper; Past BPW Australia Secretary as our honoured guest speaker.

2022 HIGHLIGHTS on the cusp of Carona we still can embrace the relationships we forged within our BPW sisterhood.

Catching up with our Young BPWA representative Harmony Moxham, it was a very windy morning at Wollongong. Congratulations Harmony on your award. Such an honour. 

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER "It's in the bag" meet Phalla, the first to put her gifts for women in our "It's in the Bag" Christmas appeal. 

Melbourne Cup Luncheon - a break from the office.

 

Sadly or October EXPO at The Pavilion.Cancelled - far too wet to go ahead postponed to Autumn 2023 delighted to have the date 15th March 2023. 

Such a pleasure to catch up with our State Representative Julianne and members of the Sydney BPW Group.  Janette Weeding & Sweta Gupta (BPWStrathfield)

Jean Arnot Luncheon at Parliament House Sydney. What an honour to be part of this. Along with BPW Sydney we celebrated the achievement of our "heroes" our 90+ women who inspire.

We recognise our women in the Burwood Rotary "Pride of Workmanship" Awards. Mary Demarco and Faye Helou. Along side Councilor Hugo Robinson and District governor Rotary 

CANDLELIGHT DINNER February 2022

The Year That Was 2021.

Zoom; zoom; zoom.... 

We worked on numerous projects ... like connecting with our local Afghan women; young scientists to see what was needed to start a business; watched Pioneers in Skirts and had monthly Quick Bite national meetings.

Do you know about the Womens Empowerment Program?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJKWwcoXduI&t=99s

Look what we did in April, it's always lovely to wear a Sari.

International Womens Day

2021 IWD congratulated Lalitha Mahadevan as Strathfield's Woman of the Year. Most Deserving.

2020 Highlights

Club meetings were put on hold due to Covid-19. IWD

I 

IWD Launch Women's Week  "Innate Power of Women" March 

Candlelight Night and Hearing Krisha's Story; she's not just a "refugee". 

2019 Highlights

Thank you Strathfield South Public School; Fitbodz Gym and all Australians.

DECEMBER: Christmas Dinner & Book Launch

We love the book and it's  just in time for the holidays; shared good food, company and sing-a-long. Happy Hollidays to all. 

Our Team:collaboration with Strathfield Council "It's In the Bag"

October:

We approached Strathfield Council and have agreed to a partnership to Share the Dignity. November -December Program 2019 "It's in the Bag". 

AUGUST: Equal Pay Day. Financial Security - Financial Happiness  Speaker: Sacha Burchgart. 

Sacha is the recipient of the prestigious Affinia Practice of the Year award in 2016; finalist for the 2018 Female Excellence in Advice Award and the 2018 NAB Women in Finance Award. Sacha currently sits as Chair on the Affinia Adviser Council, has been a keynote speaker for Google, LinkedIn, Twitter, Salesforce and is a regular at financial planning licensee conferences.

We all learnt a lot and realised how important it is to plan; to secure our future and reduce pay gaps. We had an activity which was rather scary and illustrated how much we really do need to have for a secure life.  We need to plan for the "what if's " -   "shocks" that can affect our earning capacity. Shocks that could  mean that we have a really dim future, that is if we just assume nothing could ever affect us. The night wasn't all 'doom n gloom' but how to plan; the sooner you start the better.  

 Janette, Sacha and Miriam. Sacha is a real power-house of information.

August:6 BPW Entrepreneur Social Group & BPW Sydney

An engaging night and networking with Miriam BPWSydney president, Janette BPWStrathfield President and Sandra D'Souza Speaker President Entrepreneur Social. 

July: Meeting and AGM @ Club Burwood.

I would like to congratulate all the Board Members for 2019-20. We have a great team.Thank you for joining me for another year. Janette Weeding President. 

We welcome Belen

July: "Want to be a Rock Star" @ UTS

Tanya Sydney Club & MC - opens the meeting and engages us all.

       

May: 3 Jean Arnott Luncheon  

@ State Parliament House.  What wonderful women. Active, engaging and 90+ years of age! We joined them in support and to hear their stories. April 13/14 BPWNSW State Conference @Gosford