Way In Network has planned to host a series of Women Empowerment seminars in the upcoming months, the first of such series held on Wed, 16^th of June 2021, it focused on the importance of women’s safety in our everyday lives.

The seminar was proudly supported by NSW Police Force, and the venue was proudly sponsored by Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney (HKETO, Sydney), at The Peak, Level 5, Hong Kong House, 80 Druitt St, Sydney.

The following key personnel from the Sydney City Police Area Command presented on the topics of anti-racism, domestic violence, sexual assault, and preventative measures & reporting to ensure general women’s safety:

• Paul Dunstan – A/ Superintendent
• Catherine Kolokitas – Leading Senior Constable, Domestic Violence Liaison Officer
• Nicholas Tonkes – Constable, Crime Prevention Officer
• Samantha Sukkarieh – Multicultural Community Liaison Officer

The event was opened by Way In Network President Annie Tang JP in welcoming all guests for their attendance, she emphasised the importance of women’s safety in the complex modern society, and how our member should be empowered with the knowledge to assist anyone in need.

Master of Ceremony – Jessie Xiao, Vice President of Way In Network (Senior)

Welcome Speech – Annie Tang JP, President of Way In Network

Winnie Chan, Director of Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office Sydney, The Government of the HKSAR

Further welcome speeches were made by Ms Winnie Chan, director of HKETO, Sydney in support of the seminar, and Acting Superintendent Paul Dunstan went on to explain how the local Sydney City Police Area Command places great priority in ensuring the safety & respect of women in society, as well as general safety of the local resident & business community.

Paul Dunstan – Acting Superintendent, NSW Police Force

Catherine Kolokitas – Leading Senior Constable, Domestic Violence Liaison Officer

Nicholas Tonkes – Constable, Crime Prevention Officer

Samantha Sukkarieh – Multicultural Community Liaison Officer, Crime Prevention Unit

Q&A sessions give audiences the opportunity to find out more information for women’s safety awareness issues.

Event Chair & Senior Vice President of Way In Network Jessie Xiao concluded the seminar by thanking all the speakers and supporting organisation for their contribution and efforts in making the event successful, namely HKETO & NSW Police Force, as well as many Way In volunteers:

• Advisor Linda Tang JP CFP – venue liaison
• Vice President (External) Felicia Hon – event artwork
• Secretary (Chinese) Faith He & Angela Yang – slide show
• Advisor Florence Chau JP – reception setup

Certificates of appreciation were presented to HKETO, Sydney & NSW Police Force by our founder and Honorary President the Hon. Helen Sham-Ho.

Presentation of Appreciation Certificate to HKETO and NSW Police

COVID safe refreshment packs were provided to all guest to enjoy after the seminar to allow for some long awaited catch up for Way In sisters & ladies from close connected associations.

Recently we also received email from Samantha Sukkarieh (Multicultural Community Liaison Officer) namely ‘If you’re experiencing domestic violence during COVID-19’ NSW Police Flyer with some posters and social media tiles containing key domestic and family violence messages, services and contact numbers for anyone experiencing domestic or family violence during COVID-19.

It is extremely important for everyone to know that:

Fleeing a violent or an abusive relationship, or seeking domestic and family violence related services, are REASONABLE EXCUSES to leave your home during this lockdown.

There is also important information about access to interpreters and Multicultural Community Liaison Officers for victims of domestic and family violence from Chinese backgrounds.

Chinese