The Xavier Social Justice Network invites you to join them for the Dare to Be Different Forum, its annual advocacy event exploring the theme Hope Lost, Hope Found.

Focusing on the refugee and asylum seeker experience in Melbourne, the evening will feature courageous storytelling and meaningful dialogue, rooted in Xavier’s Jesuit ethos and commitment to social justice.

The panel includes:

  • Carole Pondevie Lay, sharing insights from her work supporting refugee and asylum-seeking communities
  • Vera Gorel, reflecting on her journey from Iraqi refugee to community leader
  • Gulghotai (Gula) Bezhan, speaking on her work with Afghan women through cultural partnership and language training programs.

The forum will be hosted by ABC journalist Tom Crowley (OX 2013), currently based at Parliament House in Canberra.

Arrive from 6pm to enjoy food trucks and browse a curated exhibition of First Nations artworks, available for viewing and purchase.

Don't miss out. Book your tickets today!

DTBD Poster pdf / 1.71mb
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Event Date

Thursday 21 August 2025
7.30pm–9.00pm

Register now
Venue

Eldon Hogan Performing Arts Centre
(Xavier College Senior School)
135 Barkers Road
Kew