Way In Network held 2025 Annual General Meeting on 21 September 2025 at Emperor’s Garden Restaurant, and proudly elected the new committee for the 2025–2027 term.
Before the announcement of new committee for the 2025–2027 term, the 2023–2025 Committee members carefully check all the nomination forms that they have received.
Congratulations to Jessie Xiao, re-elected as President, and to our newly elected committee:
• Vice Presidents: Daisy Lam & Rosanna Ng
• Secretary (English): Mandy Van
• Secretary (Chinese): Faith Tan
• Treasurer: Shelley Wang
• Public Officer: Shelly Sun
• Committee Members: Florence Chau, Lisa Harris, Felicia Hon, Gabby Kwok, Stella Su, Nicole He, June He, Ellie Huang, Milly Yang, Queeny Pun & Jacques Wong
President Jessie Xiao said she was truly humbled and honoured to be entrusted once again to serve as President of our incredible network. Thank you all for your continuous support and belief in our shared mission. While the last term came with its challenges for her as a young leader, it was also filled with growth, resilience, milestones & true friendship, none of which would have been possible without the collective strength and dedication of our committee & the wider Way In community.
A heartfelt thank you to our founder and Life Honorary President, Helen Sham-Ho, as well as our respected past presidents Lavender Tsim and Florence Chau, for their presence at today’s AGM and their continued guidance.
We are also deeply grateful to Lucy Shun, Shinta Taylor & Linda Lam for joining us.
Treasurer Shellly Wang presented the 2024-2025 Financial Report and Audit Report.
Returning Officer Connie Lam.
To the 2023–2025 Committee—thank you for your dedication and contributions, which laid a strong foundation for the future of our network.
Here’s to the new term ahead—continuing our mission with passion, purpose, and unity. Together, we are stronger!
Special thanks to committee member Ellie Cheung for donating beautiful pin to Way In as gift to our members.
At the end of AGM, all the attendees celebrated for September birthday members.
https://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/hkj.jpg12802337adminhttps://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wayinlogo-300x230.jpgadmin2025-09-21 23:34:222025-09-23 00:33:402025 WAY IN NETWORK ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
On Thursday, 28 August 2025, the Way In Network, in collaboration with the NSW Police Force and supported by the NSW Government, hosted a powerful and timely Women’s Safety Seminar under the banner of its Women Empowerment Series. Held at the Day Street Police Station, the seminar aimed to inform and equip migrant and multicultural women with essential knowledge about hate crimes, personal safety, and the legal protections now in place under recent legislation.
The evening commenced with an inspiring welcome address by Detective Superintendent Martin Fileman APM, Commander of Sydney City Police Area Command. Superintendent Fileman highlighted the significance of the newly enacted laws in NSW that officially criminalise hate crimes, a major milestone in safeguarding communities from racially or religiously motivated abuse. Reflecting on recent unrest and protests marked by division and intolerance, he urged unity and mutual respect across Australia’s diverse population.
Drawing from personal experience, Superintendent Fileman shared his own family’s migration story, escaping war-torn Europe and contributing meaningfully to Australian society. He reminded attendees that Australia is a nation built on immigration and multiculturalism, and that extremist behaviours or ideologies have no place in its future.
Following his remarks, Ms Jessie Xiao, President of the Way In Network, expressed heartfelt thanks to Superintendent Fileman for his longstanding support to the network and his active engagement with the Chinese-Australian community. She also extended appreciation to Detective Chief Inspector Brad Johnston, Officer in Charge of the Engagement & Hate Crime Unit, for delivering the keynote presentation, and to Ms Dilara Nikolovski, Multicultural Community Liaison Officer, for her seamless facilitation of the evening as key coordinator & MC.
Ms Xiao further acknowledged the efforts of the event’s organising team:
Florence Chau – Honorary Advisor
FaithTan – Chinese Secretary
Mandy Van – Public Officer and Translator of the evening
Stella Su – Event Project Officer
In her speech, President Xiao emphasised the critical importance of awareness among migrant women regarding their legal rights and safety. “We are proud to stand beside our police in delivering vital knowledge to women in our community,” she stated. “With the right information and tools, women feel empowered to speak up, seek help, and confront injustice. We also pay our deepest respects to the families of the two officers tragically lost in Victoria in recent days, our thoughts are with them.”
The seminar’s main presentation was led by Detective Chief Inspector Johnston, who provided a comprehensive overview of what constitutes a hate crime, how to recognise early warning signs, and the legal avenues available to report and prosecute such offences. His session also explored the broader societal impacts of hate-driven behaviour, reinforcing the urgent need for vigilance and early intervention. An engaging Q&A session followed, providing attendees with the opportunity to raise concerns and seek practical guidance.
How to use the Empower You app to report incidents discreetly
The Emergency+ app for immediate emergency service access, including a live demonstration to access the app
To conclude the evening, The Hon. Dr Helen Sham-Ho OAM, Founder and Honorary Life President of the Way In Network, delivered heartfelt closing remarks and a vote of thanks. Dr Sham-Ho praised the seminar’s educational value, noting that even with her extensive legal background and community work, she gained fresh insights. She stressed the importance of continued collaboration between police, community leaders, and migrant groups to build a society rooted in respect, safety, and understanding.
The well-attended event provided interpretation services and was designed with cultural sensitivity in mind, ensuring all participants felt welcomed and supported.
This seminar stands as a testament to the Way In Network’s enduring mission to empower women, particularly those from migrant backgrounds, through education, advocacy, and collaboration with law enforcement.
For further information or resources on hate crimes, domestic violence, sexual assault, and general safety tools, please visit: 🌐 www.wayinnetwork.org.au
https://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/4324.jpg8521600adminhttps://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wayinlogo-300x230.jpgadmin2025-08-28 02:53:372025-09-03 04:31:01Way In Women Empowerment Series: Women’s Safety Seminar – “Say No to Hate Crime"
https://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Hate-Crime-Brochure_Page_1.jpg1033514617adminhttps://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wayinlogo-300x230.jpgadmin2025-07-04 04:37:032025-07-04 04:37:05Information from NSW Police Engagement & Hate Crime Unit
Way In Network Supports NSW Flood Relief with $20,000 Donation to The Salvation Army in Hurstville
To support recent flood relief and post-disaster recovery in New South Wales, Way In sisters donated $20,000 to The Salvation Army on 25 June 2025. The funds will be used to assist communities and families affected by flood, providing emergency supplies, temporary shelters and psychological support in the disaster-stricken areas.
At the cheque presentation ceremony, President of Way In Network Ms Jessie Xiao presented the donation cheque to Mr Gary Masters, representative of The Salvation Army in Australia. In her speech, Jessie stated:
“Way In Network has been committed to build a supportive network for immigrant women settling in Australia for over 33 years. As a long-established charity organisation rooted in Australia, we have always fuelled by a passion for aiding others and committed to community giving. This partnership with The Salvation Army is a wonderful opportunity to put that mission into practice.
What’s truly touching is that it took just one week to raise the $20,000 donation from our sisters, which showcases the compassion and efficiency of Way In Network. We hope this donation will be able to assist those affected families and communities.”
Jessie also gave special thanks to Honorary Advisors Ms Annie Tang and Ms Linda Tang for attending in support, as well as Vice President MS Eugenia Lieu and Treasurer Ms Shelly Wang for their dedicated efforts during the fundraising campaign.
“It is through everyone’s effort and teamwork that we were able to deliver this meaningful support in the most efficient way. We stand together and show the power of unity and care.”
Mr Gary Masters, expressed heartfelt thanks for the generous donation from Way In Network: “I was both surprised and moved to see the donation amount rapidly increased from the initial $13,000 to $20,000 within just one week. These funds will be used directly in the areas affected by the disaster, providing basic necessities such as food, clothing, and temporary shelters for individuals and families. The kindness shown by Way In sisters will be very helpful for the community.”
Way In Network has consistently upheld its social responsibilities, stepping forward in times of community crisis. Jessie emphasised, “We will continue to monitor the needs of the disaster affected areas and call on more compassionate individuals to join in this meaningful charity cause, working together to help affected people rebuild their homes.”
On Monday 12th May 2025, Way In Mother’s Day Luncheon was held at NSW Parliament House.
We had 20 sisters joined this special Mother’s Day tour at NSW parliament house, enjoyed Mother’s Day celebration and learnt about the Australian political system from our founder and Hon Life President Dr Helen Sham-Ho OAM, our very own first Chinese Australian parliamentarian.
In 1988, she was elected as the first Chinese born Member of Parliament in Australian history. She served in the New South Wales Parliament for four terms and retired in 2003. She served as Chairman, Vice Chairman or member of the Upper House committees and three terms Vice-President of the Legislative Council. She was the Co-founder of the NSW Parliament Asia-Pacific Friendship Group. She was also elected to the Board of Governor in the University of Western Sydney, Macquarie University Council, and Council of the University of Technology, Sydney.
Thank you Helen for being our special speaker today and sharing insightful knowledge on how the Australian democratic political system work.
We had also invited Way In Network founding President Christine Ho to attend this event and it was our great pleasure to meet her. Christine shared her stories and insights on the development of our charity commitment. She sent her best wishes to current committee and members and wished that Way In Network to continue assisting new female migrants in settling into Australia and to become an integral part of Australia’s multicultural society.
We are so grateful to have celebrated this Mother’s Day with our founders and sisters, sharing laughter, love and festive cheer. Thank you for our president Jessie Xiao for preparing beautiful flowers for all the attendees and for her great organisation.
https://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/4243.jpg13371200adminhttps://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wayinlogo-300x230.jpgadmin2025-05-12 00:09:212025-05-20 07:48:44Blooming with Love: Mother’s Day Luncheon
On 27 March 2025, Way In Network sponsored the Seniors Luncheon at ANHF Huang Ying Jung Nursing Home. Way In sisters’ generous support made this event a success and brought joy to ANHF senior community.
Welcome speech by Jessie Xiao, President of Way In Network.
Certificate of Appreciation from Ada (ANHF).
Celebration for 100th birthdays for some of the residents in ANHF Huang Ying Jung Nursing Home
Cut Pig
Way In sisters choir’s perfomance
Special performance guest – Regina Ma
Way In sisters have donated the decoration items, as well as delicious food, which has directly impacted the lives of the seniors, allowing them to enjoy a special day of fellowship and celebration.
We are grateful to attend this joyful and meaningful event, sharing laugher and love with the Seniors. A huge thank you to our generous sisters for their donation and great teamwork.
https://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/r23.jpg8561598adminhttps://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wayinlogo-300x230.jpgadmin2025-03-27 01:00:202025-04-01 08:44:06ANHF Huang Ying Jung Nursing Home Seniors Luncheon
To celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, Way In Network co-hosted a special morning tea event with the NSW Police Force on Tuesday, March 4 at the Haymarket Local Police Station. The event brought together Way In members, NSW Police representatives, community supporters, media friends and distinguished speakers to honour the achievements of women and discuss the challenges they have overcome in their respective fields. Over 50 guests attended the event on the day.
MC – Ms Nicole He
The event was officially opened by Detective Superintendent Martin Fileman APM, the Hon. Dr. Helen Sham-Ho OAM, Founder of the Way In Network, and Jessie Xiao CA, President of the Way In Network.
Opening Remarks – Detective Superintendent Martin Fileman
DetectiveSuperintendentMartinFileman opened the International Women’s Day morning tea with a heartfelt and inspiring speech, highlighting the power and influence of women in both his personal and professional life. He emphasized the strength and resilience of women, lauding their pivotal roles in shaping society. Furthermore, he expressed his appreciation of the Way In Network and good work that the organisation has been doing to support migrant women, him & his team are proud to be collaborating with the Way In Network.
Opening Remarks – The Hon. Dr Helen Sham-Ho – Founder of the Way In Network
Jessie Xiao – President of the Way In Network
The Hon. Dr Helen Sham-Ho OAM is an exemplary female leader who made history as the first Asian Australian politician elected in 1988. With a lifetime of dedication to community service, Helen has established numerous not-for-profit organizations and received the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2012 for her outstanding contributions. Helen expressed her pride in Way In Network’s continued legacy, supporting migrant women and reaching new milestones, including today’s International Women’s Day morning tea. She offered words of encouragement to the committee and members present, acknowledging the progress made and the collective strength of the community.
Jessie Xiao CA, President of Way In Network, was thrilled to collaborate with the NSW Police in hosting this event. She expressed her gratitude to Detective Superintendent Fileman and Senior Sergeant Nathan Carroll and their team for their support in bringing this event to life. Jessie highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment, sharing her excitement about the growing impact of Way In Network in supporting and uplifting women. She also took a moment to recognize various VIP guests in attendance, including Grace Li, Associate Dean (Internationalisation) at UTS, and Dr Lu Liu, Senior Lecturer at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, who have both contributed to the Way In Women Empowerment Series in the past by hosting exclusive events for Way In members at their respective institutions.
A highlight of the morning was the panel discussion, featuring a dynamic lineup of female leaders:
Jessie Xiao CA – President, Way In Network
Eugenia Lieu JP – Vice President, Way In Network
Inspector Sohryn Carter – NSW Police Force
Dr. Maggie Wang – The Westmead Institute for Medical Research
Detective Superintendent Martin Fileman also participated in the panel discussion, where he paid tribute to the significant women in his life – his mother, wife, and daughter – acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the person he has become today. He also spoke passionately about the remarkable achievements of women in law enforcement, celebrating their indispensable contributions to the police force. He proudly referenced the leadership of the female Commissioner, whose empowering presence serves as a beacon of inspiration and strength for all women in the organization. His words resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring the importance of recognising and celebrating the vital contributions of women in all aspects of life.
The panel discussion was moderated by Dilara Nikolovski, Multicultural Community Liaison Officer, the discussion delved into themes of leadership, resilience, and empowerment. All panellists shared their personal experiences, highlighting key moments in their careers, lessons learned, and advice for aspiring women in their fields.
Key topics included:
Celebrating Success – Women often downplay their achievements. Panellists reflected on their proudest career moments and the impact of their work.
Breaking Barriers – Dr. Maggie Wang shared insights on women’s evolving role in medical research and highlighted breakthrough projects at The Westmead Institute.
Empowering Women – Jessie Xiao & Eugenia Lieu spoke about the challenges of leadership and how the Way In Network fosters a supportive environment for women.
Women in Law Enforcement – Inspector Sohryn Carter and Leading Senior Constable Catherine Kolokitas discussed their journeys in the NSW Police Force, and the support available for women in the force.
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Linda Tang, Honorary Advisor of the Way In Network, thanking all the speakers, attendees & the working committee on both sides that made the event so successful.
Vote of Thanks – Linda Tang (Hon. Advisor – the Way In Network)
The morning tea was expertly emceed by Nicole He, a Committee Member of the Way In Network, attended by dedicated members of the Network & NSW Police, and supported by friends of the organisation including but not limited to the Lions Club of Sydney Waratah, the Lions Club of Sydney Chinese and the Haymarket Chamber of Commerce.
Ms Nicole He and Ms Dilara Nikolovski, NSWPF Multicultural Community Liaison Officer.
This inspiring event reinforced the importance of celebrating women’s achievements, fostering leadership, and encouraging the next generation to pursue their ambitions with confidence. By coming “Stronger Together,” the Way In Network and NSW Police Force continue to demonstrate the power of collaboration in empowering women and creating a more inclusive future for all in the local community.
We thank the following Media Partners:
Australia Chinese Entertainment (TVB Anywhere)
Australia Chinese Daily
Media Today Group
Sydney Impression
2CK Media
Ovideo Media
Polaris Media
https://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/we.jpg8321600adminhttps://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wayinlogo-300x230.jpgadmin2025-03-04 03:23:172025-03-12 01:35:08Way In Network and NSW Police Force Celebrate International Women’s Day with Inspiring Morning Tea “Stronger Together”
Way In Network held Chinese New Year Celebration Party on the 12th February 2025 at Sunny Seafood Central Park Restaurant, celebrate the Year of Snake and Lantern Festival.
We appreciate for the effort of doing a lot of preparation works by the management committee.
MC – Mandy Van and Stella Su
Welcome speech – Way In Network President Jessie Xiao
Toasting speech – The Honourable Dr. Helen Sham Ho OAM and Hon. Advisor Florence Chau JP, accompanied by Ms Jessie Xiao and Ms Eugenia Lieu
We are so grateful that families and friends could be here to celebrate Chinese new year with us and share in our good cheer.
Way In sisters choir, led by Ms Lisa Harris
Dance performance by Mrs Rosanna Ng and Mr Wilson Ng.
Song performance by Way In long term supporter Mrs May Ng and Mr Ken Ng.
Song performance by Ms Regina Ma to celebrate Lantern Festival which is also Chinese Valentine Day and her anniversary day.
As our tradition of every gathering party, we have also celebrated the birthday for January, February and March sisters.
Thanks for all the lovely gifts supported by all the above sponsors.
Special thanks to Ms Milly Yang for turtle herbal jelly gifts for every guest, to Ms Mo Yu to support Good Fortune Centre Pieces and to Ms Linda Tang (Shaw and Partners)’s sport caps.
Vote of thanks by Vice President Ms Eugenia Lieu
The night was full of fun, laugh and love. Thanks for everyone who joined us in making the Chinese new year so memorable. Thank you sisters for your teamwork, your performance, donation of prizes and photos etc. We wish everyone a successful year ahead.
https://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/23-1.jpg7791599adminhttps://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wayinlogo-300x230.jpgadmin2025-02-12 01:19:082025-02-14 01:55:162025 Way In Chinese New Year Celebration Party
On 23 November 2024, Way In Network has hosted 2024 Annual General Meeting and Christmas party at Emperor’s Garden Restaurant.
Welcome speech by Way In Network President Jessie Xiao.
This year’s Annual General Meeting have been prepared by committee members for few months, a full package of AGM documents have been sent to all members by post before the commencement of this meeting. This include 1. 2024 AGM Email Notification; 2. 2024 Financial Statement; 3. 2024 AGM Agenda; 4. 2023 AGM Minute.
In the meeting, Way In Network Treasurer Zihan Wang presented 2024 financial reports and Chinese secretary Faith Tan presented this year’s member activities report. Founder and Honorary President Dr. Helen Sham Ho OAM assisted to amend a number of procedural issues in normal practice, as well as raised some request and her hopes which could better help the management of our organisation.
This year’s Christmas celebration party is after the Annual General Meeting. It was a fantastic blend of a yearly review and festive cheer.
Appreciate certificate to Chinese Classical Prose by Elizabeth (Zihan Wang’s daughter).
Appreciate certificate to Ellie Huang for supporting Christmas accessories.
MC – Nicole He
Appreciate certificate to Florence Chau for organise Christmas gifts.
Appreciate certificate to Event Officer Stella Su.
Appreciate certificate to Milly Yang and Elaine Kong for Christmas gift support.
Appreciate certificate to Regina Ma for singing performance and her support to Way In event over years, as well as appreciate certificate to Faith Tan (Urban Stellar Pty Ltd) for her great support.
Huge thanks to Stella, Florence and Ellie for their donation of red pocket money as game prize and the gift from Jessie as best dress catwalk prize.
Thanks for everyone who joined us in making the day so memorable. Thank you sisters for your teamwork, your performance, donation of prizes and photos etc. We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a successful year ahead.
https://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/32-6.jpg22684032adminhttps://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wayinlogo-300x230.jpgadmin2024-11-23 23:18:192024-11-25 00:02:08Annual General Meeting 2024 & Christmas Celebration Dinner
Way In Network held its book launch at Kaolin Porcelain Surfaces on 2 November 2024 for its inaugural photographic Book “Stories of Enchanted Wisdom”. More than 70 guests attended including its members, community leaders, charity partners and media.
MC – Ms Polly Chan
The Life Honorary President of Way In Network, Dr. Helen Sham Ho OAM, and the President of the Way In Network, Jessie Xiao, first welcomed the guests. Jessie said,” In celebration of the Way In Network’s 32nd Anniversary, marked by the gemstone Lapis Lazuli, we are delighted to unveil our inaugural Collectable Photographic Book, “Stories of Enchanted Wisdom “. Since its founding, Way In has evolved from a modest women’s migrant support group into a respected not-for-profit organization. With the success of this year’s fundraising efforts, we are excited to extend our support to AGCF again. In 2016, Way In as AGCF’s ambassador funded the AGCF/Way In Network Research Fellowship across 3 years, we hope to support more research in this much-needed area.
I express my deepest gratitude to you, our readers. Your time and generosity are invaluable. I hope these stories resonate with you, and that you will share them with your loved ones. We look forward to hearing your stories in the future!”
When asked why she came up with the idea of this Photographic Book, Linda Tang, the Project Head said: “In the past 32 years, Way In Network has attracted many outstanding female members and close charity partners. I have always had a vision to publish a photographic book that reflects the beauty of women from the inside out; this book can record the rich and magnificent portraits of each lady, capture their outer beauty to inner strength, and the unique journey they have gone through, and pass on their enchanted wisdom to inspire others and the new generation of women.”
The photographer responsible for this project is the internationally renowned Andy Cheung, who used his expertise in capturing moments of athletes to capture the vibe and most touching expression of each lady.
The 20 Way In members and outstanding women who participated in the shooting and writing of their stories include Helen Sham Ho, Florence Chau, Annie Tang, Linda Tang, Jessie Xiao, Judy Chan, Polly Chan, Jennifer Cheung, Eliza Chung, June He, Rita He, Ivy Ho, Ellie Huang, Josephine Lam, Eugenia Lieu, Maggie Lo, Sue Luo, Rosanna Ng, Brenda Xiao and Milly Yang.
The above-mentioned ladies who participated in “Stories of Enchanted Wisdom” and also attended the book launch, had appeared on stage to share their life reflections and shooting experience.
This book launch had also raised fund from sponsors, donors and book sale. Way In Network had donated in this event AUD 10,000 to the Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation, which was received by Professor Neville Hacker, founder of AGCF. Way In Network has served as the Asian Ambassador of AGCF for many years and had donated AGCF research funds for three years.
In addition, the book launch had also invited three former Miss Hong Kong, Maria Chung, Joan Tong and Christina Siu, who happened to be traveling in Sydney, and held a Aus -Hong Kong discussion forum with Way In Network representatives Jessie Xiao, Annie Tang, Elsa Shum, Lisa Harris, Rita He and Rosanna Ng. Exchanges and discussions between women from the two places on women’s empowerment, women’s status, and the work of women’s charity groups.
The text album “Stories of Enchanted Wisdom” is priced at $128. If you would like to purchase, please contact Way In Network email:info@wayinnetwork.org.au.
Way In Network had expressed its heartiest gratitude to below for the successful book launch: Corporate Sponsor: Shaw and Partners Kaolin Porcelain Surfaces Dynasty Karaoke Exceed and Excel Financial Services
Personal Sponsor: Annie Tang Faith Tan & Rita He Ellie Huang
Donors: Queeny Pun Maggie Lo Elaine Kong Dr Michael Tse Elsa Shum Stephen Ng Davy Kong Milly Yang
https://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/KEW_4196.jpg6671000adminhttps://wayinnetwork.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/wayinlogo-300x230.jpgadmin2024-11-02 23:38:422024-11-06 02:19:07Way In Network’s “Stories of Enchanted Wisdom” Book launch
