Press Conference of Way In Network’s 34th Charity Gala Dinner

Way In Network held a press conference on April 24, 2026, at the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Sydney, Hong Kong House, to officially announce the upcoming 34th Anniversary Charity Gala. The charity gala will be grandly held on Saturday, 16th May 2026, at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Hotel. Members of the community are warmly invited to join this meaningful event and work together to spread love and care.

MC – Nicole He
Ms. Jessie Xiao CA
President of Way In Network

President Jessie Xiao, in her welcome address, stated that since its founding in 1992 by Honorary Life President Dr. Helen Sham Ho OAM, the Way In Network, under the leadership of successive presidents and committees, has been dedicated to supporting the development of women, serving the community, and actively promoting charitable causes. From its beginnings as a mutual support group for immigrant women, Way In Network has grown into today’s widely recognised non-profit organisation.”

Over the past 34 years, Way In Network firmly believes that every act of kindness can create a positive impact. To date, it has raised and donated over AUD 3.96 million to promote women’s empowerment and support initiatives in healthcare, education, and social services. This year, the “Australian Opal” is chosen as the symbol, representing diversity, inclusiveness, and unity.

The theme of this year’s Charity Gala, “Together We Shine”, encourages the community to come together in kindness. The gala will raise funds for CanRevive Inc. and the Thoracic Oncology Group of Australasia (TOGA) to support cancer patient services and medical research.

President Jessie Xiao also expressed her gratitude for the ongoing support and sponsorship from various sectors, and she extended special thanks to the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Sydney (HKETO) for supporting and sponsoring the venue for this year’s press conference. Distinguished guests and community leaders in attendance included Cr Nancy Liu, Ms Jane Liu – Public Relations Officer of HKETO, and other representatives from the political, business, and community sectors. Their presence added prestige to the event and reflected the community’s shared support for charitable work and women’s development.

“Finally,” she said, “I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to Event Chair, Vice President Ms Daisy Lam, Vice President Ms Rosanna Ng and Honorary Advisor Ms Florence Chau, and all committee members. Thank you for your continuous dedication and companionship.”

Ms. Daisy Lam
Vice President of Way In Network
Event Chair

Vice President and Event Chair of this year’s Charity Gala, Ms Daisy Lam, stated that the dinner will feature three major performance segments, showcasing music, dance, and jewellery artistry to reflect the gala’s theme, promising guests a spectacular experience that blends visual and artistic delights.

The evening will also include charity auctions and lucky draw to raise funds. Several exquisite auction items have already been secured, including:

  • An Opal necklace valued at over AUD 5,000, echoing this year’s “Opal” theme.
  • A pair of diamond earrings valued at AUD 6,500.
  • Missoni homeware, fine dining experiences at renowned Chinese restaurants, Rémy Martin Louis XIII Cognac, 15-year aged Guizhou Moutai, and a Year of the Horse special edition 99.99% pure gold coin, among other prized items.

Additionally, the gala will feature 100 lucky draw prizes, generously donated by members and supporters, including several valued over AUD 1,000, offering high chances to win and adding extra excitement for attendees.

She also expressed gratitude for the strong and continued support from the community, noting that nearly 400 guests have already enthusiastically confirmed their participation.

Ms. Rosanna Ng
Vice President of Way In Network

Vice President Ms Rosanna Ng provided a detailed introduction to the highlights of this year’s Charity Gala. The evening will feature a variety of vibrant performances, including performances by emerging singers with a live band, energetic Latin dance, and a creatively curated “Opal”- themed jewellery show, fully reflecting the gala’s “Together We Shine” theme.

The opening dance, titled “Dance to Shine Like Opal”, will take the stage first. By combining light and movement, it symbolizes the gathering of goodwill and mutual reflection, setting a spectacular tone for the evening and offering guests a truly immersive visual and auditory experience.

Mr. Eric Yeung
President of CanRevive
Dr. Megan Sanders
CEO of TOGA

The two beneficiary organizations of this year’s Charity Gala are CanRevive Inc. and TOGA (Thoracic Oncology Group of Australasia).

Mr Eric Yeung, Chairman of CanRevive, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the long-standing support and sponsorship from the Wisdom and Virtue Association. He noted that with the collective participation of the community, they will be able to continue providing comprehensive and free support services to cancer patients.

Dr. Megan Sanders, CEO of TOGA, also expressed appreciation for the Association’s attention and support for thoracic oncology research, highlighting that this will help advance scientific research and bring hope to more patients.

Ms. Mandy Van
English Secretary of Way In Network
Ms. Faith He
Chinese Secretary of Way In Network

English Secretary Ms Mandy Van introduced the major local sponsors of this year’s Charity Gala and the exciting array of lucky draw prizes, adding further highlights and anticipation to the event.

This was followed by a thank-you speech from Chinese Secretary Ms Faith Tan, expressing heartfelt gratitude to media organizations, supporters, sponsors, and the volunteer team. Special thanks were also extended to Public Relations Officer Nicole He for serving as the host of both the press conference and the gala.

Heartfelt thanks to all the media friends present on the day for their support and continued assistance over the years.

Also appreciate to the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office for providing the venue and equipment support.

Everyone truly enjoyed the networking opportunities and the delicious food on the day.

Way In Network hopes that all sectors of society will continue to work hand in hand to promote charitable development, allowing love and goodwill to be continuously passed on and extended within the community. The Association sincerely looks forward to gathering with everyone again on 16 May 2026, to witness a dazzling and unforgettable night of charity, shining together in unity.

At this time, Way In Network would like to express heartfelt thanks to the following sponsors for their generous support:

Special Sponsor 特別贊助:
Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney
香港政府駐悉尼經濟貿易辦事處


Platinum Sponsors 白金贊助:
Advisory Centre for Australian Education 澳洲留學移民中心
Australia Xinhui culture & products Pty Ltd 澳洲新會文化產品有限公司
Horizon Asian Dining – Yum Cha & Live Seafood | Cabramatta 八滿閣
Lakeview Long Jetty – Strata Titled Over 55’s Residences
National Auto Glass Supplies
Urban Stellar


Silver Sponsor 銀贊助:
Australian Chinese Jockey Club 澳華賽馬會
Ettason 林和成貿易公司
Chinatown Physio – Rosanna Ng
Rotary Club of Chatswood International
Sunsolis Legal
Sydney Implant Institute


Auction Items & Sponsors 拍賣品贊助:
Coco Zhou – Louis XIII Cognac
龍景軒 & 阿林美食 – 陳皮美酒佳餚晚宴
御宴 & 古月龍山 – 海鮮美酒佳餚晚宴
Jenny Bay Diamond – Rose Gold 2.35CT Diamond Earrings
贵州茅台 – 15年陳年貴州茅台酒
Missoni – Home Living Set
Rex Opal Jewellery卓麗歐泊 – “Heart of Ocean” 18k Natural Boulder Opal Pendant
Ricky Char – Year of the Horse 99.99ct Gold Coin
順德味道 – 九大簋晚宴

Charity Donations 慈善捐款:
Australian Chinese Charity Foundation Inc.
CP Blossom Trading Company
Lisa Harris
Dr Richard Ho & Queeny Pun
Ellie Wei Ling Huang
Elaine & Vincent Kong
Kong’s Australia
譚溢鴻居士及潘冰嫦夫人
Selina Wong CPA JP

Auctioneer 拍賣師

Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty – Michael Pallier

Drink Sponsor 酒類贊助

Penfolds

Snack Sponsor 食物贈品赞助

多多Torto

Binggrae

Community Support 社團支持:
Australia Shunde Association of Commerce Inc.
Australian Chinese Community Association of NSW
Australian Chinese Charity Foundation Inc.
Australian Nursing Home Foundation
Australian Shenzhen Association Incorporated
Australian Zhuhai Association Incorporated
Chinese Parents Association – Children with Disabilities Inc.
Differently Abled People Associations Inc.
Haymarket Chamber of Commerce
Hong Kong Australia Business Association NSW
Kids4Kids Empowerment Inc.
Lions Club of Sydney Chinese Inc.
Lions Club of Sydney Harmony
Lions Club of Sydney Pacific Inc.
Lions Club of Sydney Sunny
Lions Club of Sydney Waratah
Rotary Club of North Ryde
Shunde Association of Australia Inc

Special Children Services Centre
St. George Community Alliance

Gala Ball MC 晚會主持:

Nicole He & Ronald Chan

Performances 演出嘉賓

Dance – Sydney Ballroom
Dance to Shine Like Opals Maddy Webb & Kieran Gregory

Singing Band 新東⾵旅社 New Journey

Together We Shine Opal Show Rex Opal Young Models

Way In Network Celebrates Lantern Festival and International Women’s Day with Women Empowerment Series and Festive Evening Gala

Sydney, 4 March 2026 — Over 50 members, friends, VIP guests and media representatives gathered on the evening of 3 March at Diamond Territory in Sydney’s Chinatown as Way In Network celebrated the Lunar Lantern Festival and the upcoming International Women’s Day with a Women Empowerment Series seminar and festive dinner.

Distinguished guests included Mrs Hong Zhang, Counsellor of the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Sydney; Ms Mingzi Zhang, Consul; Councillor Nancy Liu of Georges River Council; The Hon. Helen Sham-Ho, former Deputy President of the NSW Legislative Council; together with representatives from Sydney’s Chinese community and business sector.

MC – Nicole He
President of Way In Network – Jessie Xiao

President’s Welcome

Way In Network President Ms Jessie Xiao delivered the welcome address, expressing appreciation to distinguished guests, members and supporters for taking time during the busy Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival period to attend the celebration.

She noted that Way In Network has long been committed to serving the community through diverse initiatives and charitable programs. The organisation’s achievements, she emphasised, are the result of unity, mutual support among members and the strong encouragement of the wider community. As an influential community organisation, Way In continues to promote meaningful charitable causes while fostering inclusiveness and positive social impact.

A Longstanding Commitment to Women’s Empowerment

The celebration formed part of Way In Network’s long-running Women Empowerment Series, a cornerstone initiative dedicated to strengthening women’s legal awareness, financial literacy, leadership development and community participation.

Earlier in the afternoon, a themed seminar titled “Her Rights. Her Wealth. Her Future.” was held as part of the Series.

Ms Shelly Sun, Founder and Principal Solicitor of Sunsolis Legal

Ms Shelly Sun, Founder and Principal Solicitor of Sunsolis Legal, delivered a keynote presentation titled “Beyond Bruises: Recognising Coercive Control in Modern Domestic Violence.” Drawing on her professional experience leading a multidisciplinary legal practice serving the multicultural community, Ms Sun examined the evolving legal framework in New South Wales, where coercive control has recently been criminalised. She highlighted early warning signs of non-physical abuse, the vulnerabilities faced by migrant and multicultural women, and the legal protections and support pathways available.

Ms Zihan (Shelley) Wang, Associate Solicitor at Morabito Legal

Ms Zihan (Shelley) Wang, Associate Solicitor at Morabito Legal and mediator member of the International Commercial Mediation Center for BRI, presented “Estate Planning and Trust Succession – What You Need to Know.” Her session emphasised the importance of careful structuring of wills and trust arrangements to safeguard family succession and minimise future disputes.

The seminar enriched attendees’ professional knowledge and reaffirmed Way In Network’s ongoing commitment to empowering women through practical, high-quality expertise.

Festive Greetings and Community Support

During the evening program, brief remarks were delivered by distinguished guests.

Mrs Hong Zhang, Counsellor of the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Sydney

Mrs Hong Zhang, Counsellor of the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Sydney, conveyed festive greetings on the occasion of the Lantern Festival and the upcoming International Women’s Day. She acknowledged the important role of women in social development and highlighted the significance of cultural heritage and community engagement in strengthening connections between China and Australia.

Councillor Nancy Liu of Georges River Council

Councillor Nancy Liu of Georges River Council shared her reflections as both an elected representative and a member of Way In Network. She commended the organisation’s longstanding contributions to the community and expressed continued support for initiatives that promote women’s empowerment and multicultural inclusion.

Their remarks underscored the broader recognition of Way In Network’s positive impact within both diplomatic and local government spheres.

A Joyful Lantern Festival Celebration

The evening dinner reflected both the warmth of the Lantern Festival and the spirit of unity within the community.

Many members attended dressed in elegant traditional Chinese attire, adding colour and cultural vibrancy to the celebration. Each guest was presented with a festive lantern, symbolising light, hope and good fortune for the year ahead.

Way In Network members performed the beloved classic “The Moon Represents My Heart,” creating a nostalgic and heartfelt atmosphere. A captivating Huangmei Opera performance drew enthusiastic applause, celebrating the richness of traditional Chinese arts.

The program also featured traditional lantern riddle games that encouraged lively participation, as well as a generous lucky draw with attractive prizes, bringing excitement and joyful anticipation throughout the evening.

Vice President of Way In Network – Ms Daisy Lam

Vice President Ms Daisy Lam introduced the upcoming 34th Anniversary Charity Ball to be held on 16 May, a major biennial fundraising event expected to welcome approximately 400 guests. Proceeds from the gala will be dedicated entirely to charitable causes, and the broader community was warmly invited to participate.

The event was chaired by Ms Rossana Ng, who ensured the smooth running of both the seminar and evening program. At the conclusion of the celebration, Ms Ng delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing sincere appreciation to the distinguished guests, speakers, members, supporters and media representatives whose presence contributed to the success of the event.

As the evening drew to a close, attendees departed with lanterns in hand, gifts and prizes to take home, and hearts full of warmth — truly returning home with abundance, both in festive joy and renewed community connection.

The celebration not only marked the Lantern Festival and International Women’s Day, but also reaffirmed Way In Network’s enduring mission: to empower women, strengthen multicultural understanding and build a more inclusive and supportive community for generations to come.

Community Update | Donation to fire incident in Tai Po, Hong Kong

In response to the recent fire incident in Tai Po, Hong Kong, members of the WayIn community have expressed their care and support in a quiet and practical manner.

Within one week of the incident, WayIn members came together on a voluntary basis and raised a total of AUD 30,000. The full amount has been donated to the Hong Kong Government’s designated official support account to assist with relief efforts related to the Tai Po fire. This initiative was entirely member-led and reflects the community’s shared concern for those affected.

This update is shared solely to acknowledge and thank the WayIn community for the compassion, solidarity, and sense of responsibility shown. At this difficult time, we extend our sincere thoughts and best wishes to all individuals and families impacted by the incident.

Donation List (in no particular order):

  1. Way In Network
  2. Jessie Xiao
  3. June He
  4. Ellie Huang
  5. Florence Chau
  6. Faith Tan
  7. Zihan Wang
  8. Rosanna Ng
  9. Mandy Van
  10. Lisa Harris
  11. Daisy Lam
  12. Shelly Sun
  13. Coco Zhou
  14. Nicole He
  15. Queeny Pun
  16. Maggie Lo
  17. Cindy Chan
  18. Rita He
  19. Cindy Li
  20. Connie Lam
  21. Sue Luo
  22. Amy Ng
  23. Jennifer Cheung
  24. Helen Sham-Ho
  25. Milly Yang
  26. Anonymous Member

2025 WAY IN NETWORK CHRISTMAS PARTY

Way In Network successfully hosted its 2025 Christmas Party on 21 December at The Brighton Hotel, Sydney. With over 50 attendees — including our members, their families and friends — the afternoon was filled with joy, laughter and festive cheer.

MC – Nicole He

For this year’s Christmas gathering, we’re trying something different—embracing a sunny, beach, relaxed holiday vibe that reflects Australia’s weather and lifestyle.

Heartfelt thanks to Nicole for her courage to innovate, and to Felicia, Stella, Florence, Lisa, and all the sisters for their hard work and support, which made this year’s Christmas event a complete success.

President of Way In Network – Jessie Xiao

Jessie delivered her president’s speech at the beginning of the event, thanking the sisters for bringing their friends and families together to celebrate Christmas, as well as expressing appreciation to friends from other associations for attending. She wished everyone a joyful time, great food, and shared that a professional photographer had been arranged to capture beautiful Christmas memories for all.

The event featured a lavish spread of food that delighted everyone’s taste buds and set the tone for a wonderful celebration.

After enjoying the delicious food, everyone took turns in front of the professional photographer’s camera, capturing beautiful Christmas photos—whether with friends, with family, or solo. Each photo became a cherished memory of this special Christmas.

During the Secret Santa gift exchange, everyone participated enthusiastically, exchanging Christmas presents and taking home moments of surprise and heartfelt joy.

Special thanks to our regular event photographer, Milly, who always selflessly captures moments for everyone, preserving these beautiful times through her lens.

We also want to thank Ellie for sponsoring the beautiful Christmas headpieces, which looked stunning and wonderful on everyone.

One of the highlights of this gathering was a fun activity where participants could strike creative poses for photos to win extra Christmas gifts. Thanks to those who joined in, bringing lots of laughter and joy to the event. Also a big thank you for sisters who have donated these extra Christmas gifts to the party.

Heartfelt thanks to our committee for their careful planning and selfless dedication to all the activities throughout 2025. May we continue to work hand in hand in 2026 to do even more charity work and support those in need.

As 2025 draws to a close, we wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and a joyful welcome to the New Year ahead.

2025 Way In Network Elderly Luncheon

On Sunday, 9th of November, Way In Network held our traditional event – the seniors luncheon at Taste of Shunde in Hurstville, aiming to uphold and promote the traditional Chinese virtue of respecting and caring for the elderly. This event was attended by more than 120 seniors, creating a warm and lively atmosphere.

Our sisters arrived at the venue early, began distributing gifts ahead of time, and warmly welcomed the elderly guests as they arrived.

MC Nicole He announced the start of the event and expressed gratitude to the following sisters and friends for their generous donations of table prizes.

枱奬編號:

No. 1. Lisa  利是 $10 x 12

No. 2. ⁠Dominic Pak 茶葉x 12

No. 3. ⁠Jessie table prize x 12

No. 4. ⁠順德味道超市購物券$10              

No. 5 Faith 順德大良蹦沙x12

No. 6 Daisy 陳皮及陳皮醬禮包x 12                        

No. 7 Milly六星級和田玉棗 x12.                     

No. 8 Ellie x 12                                   

No. 9  Anny Chan x12 保暖杯                    

No 10 Elaine x 12

Faith Tan from Urban Stellar donate 120 㠶布袋 bags

Way In Network President Jessie Xiao had welcome speech and stated that, after carefully considering post-pandemic health and safety factors, we decided to once again hold seniors banquet at a restaurant this year, hoping to encourage seniors to step out and enjoy some joyful moment together. She said,

“This is our second seniors luncheon since the pandemic. We hope to host similar events in more areas across Sydney in the future, spreading joy and care throughout the community. Today’s success would not have been possible without the teamwork of our committee and members. I’d like to especially thank Vice President Rosanna Ng, Honorary Advisor Florence Chau, Event Project Officer Stella Su for all of the wonderful planning works they have done, as well as member Sue Luo and the staff of Taste of Shunde for their warm hospitality and strong support.”

The MC introduced The Honourable Dr. Helen Sham Ho OAM, our Founder & Honorary President, noting that although she is in her eighties, she remains active and deeply involved in community activities. Dr. Helen Sham Ho is also the former NSW Legislative Council Member; in her speech she emphasised that passing on the spirit of respect for the elderly has always been one of Way In Network’s core missions. She noted that the event received strong support from members and volunteers, filling the banquet with love and blessings.

“Seeing our seniors leave with smiles and happiness is the best recognition we could ever receive.” she said.

Sam Luo, President of the Shunde Association and owner of Taste of Shunde, expressed his delight in supporting Way In Network seniors’ event, thanking the association for its long-standing dedication to the community and continuous efforts to enhance the wellbeing of the elderly.

The entertainment program were wonderful and diverse. Way In Choir, led by General Affair Officer Lisa Harris, performed the classic song “Love Is All Around” (萬水千山總是情), earning enthusiastic applause.

Longtime supporters Anthony Cheung and Regina Ma also performed several heartfelt songs, further enlivening the atmosphere.

In addition to a sumptuous meal, our members prepared numerous gifts and surprises — seniors aged 90 and above received special red packets, while a lucky draw offered more than 60 prizes, bringing joy and excitement to all.


Thanks to the following donors for their generous gift contributions.

抽奖礼物編號:

1-2. Stella x 2

3-4. Faith x2

5-6. Rosanna x2

7-8. Felicia X 2

9-10. Daisy Lam x 2

11-12. Connie x 2

13-22. Lisa  $20 利是 x10      

23-24. Ellie x 2

25-26. Queeny Pun x 2

27-31. June x 5

32-33. Nicole x 2

34-35. Rita Ho x2

36-37. Gabby Kwok x 2

38-39. Eugenia Lieu x 2

40-43. Lucy Shun x 4

44-45. Sandy Tung x 2

46-48. Elaine Kong x 3

49-50. Florence x2 紅包$20

50-60. Maggie Lo x8红包$50; 2x $100 ( another 8x$50 for red pockets for over 90)

61-63 橡樹灣湖海度假莊園$500 Room Vouchers x3

At the close of the event, Vice President Rosanna Ng delivered a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all members and volunteers for their dedication and encouraging everyone to continue upholding the spirit of caring for the elderly and promoting this cherished Chinese tradition.

Way In sisters contributed both financially and through their efforts. The list of donors is as follows:

  1. June He
  2. Mandy Van
  3. Maggie Lo
  4. Sandy Tung
  5. Elaine Kong
  6. Milly Yang
  7. Faith Tan
  8. Coco Zhou
  9. Cindy Li
  10. Sue Luo
  11. Karen Borda
  12. Ellie Huang
  13. Rosanna Ng
  14. Lisa Harris
  15. Gabby Kwok
  16. Florence Chau
  17. Felicia Hon
  18. Jessie Xiao
  19. Stella Su
  20. Nicole He
  21. Connie Lam
  22. Eugenia Lieu
  23. Jennifer Cheung
  24. Daisy Lam
  25. Anny Chan

Special thanks to Maggie Lo for her generous donation of $1,000 to provide red packets for seniors aged 90 and above.

Way In Network will continue to organise similar events in the future, striving to bring more warmth, care, and happiness to the elderly in the community.

Way In Network 2025 Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration

On 8 October 2025, Way In Network successfully hosted Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration at Garden Palace Restaurant in Haymarket. Members and guests enjoyed a wonderful evening with great food, laugher, performances and networking.

In President Jessie Xiao’s welcome speech, she welcomed all members and friends gathering in this Mid-Autumn Festival celebration and are reminded of the importance of unity, family, and shared traditions.

中華人民共和國駐悉尼總領事館王書羽參贊致辭
Georges River Council Councillor Nancy Liu

We feel truly privileged and grateful to welcome Ms Shuyu WANG, Consul (Cultural Affairs) and Ms CHENG Hanjun, Vice-Consul from Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China, Councillor Nancy Liu from Georges River Council and leaders from various communities to join our celebration event.

In this meaningful moment, we were also deeply honoured to receive a Certificate of Appreciation and a heartfelt handwritten card from the children of the Chinese Parents Association for Disabilities.

Our Way In sister choir gave a beautiful performance of The Moon Represents My Heart, with special thanks to the wonderful accordion accompaniment by Linda Lam.

We were also delighted and deeply impressed by the violin performance from young Lucas, a talented Year 1 student.

Heartfelt thanks to Regina Ma and Ken Ng for their beautiful song performance and their ongoing support at our events — it truly means a lot to us.

A special surprise delighted us all — Councillor Nancy Liu’s energetic rendition of ‘潇洒走一回’, paired with MC Mandy Van’s graceful and captivating dance performance.

Certificates of Appreciation were presented to performers and individuals who made valuable contributions to the organisation.

A wide range of raffle prizes were given out — our congratulations to all the fortunate winners and thank you to all the prize donors.

The food was absolutely delicious — our sincere thanks to the Garden Palace Restaurant at Haymarket for their generous support.

A heartfelt vote of thanks was delivered by The Hon. Dr Helen Sham-Ho OAM JP, expressing gratitude to everyone for joining us tonight and sharing a warm, love-filled evening. She also encouraged continued support for our organisation in future events and charity activities.

Happy Moon Festival to all — may this special night bring warmth and togetherness. Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate this special occasion – what a memorable night!

2025 WAY IN NETWORK ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

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 Shelley 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.

Way In Women Empowerment Series: Women’s Safety Seminar – “Say No to Hate Crime”

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
  • Faith Tan – 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.

Next, Senior Sergeant Nathan Carroll delivered a focused safety session covering:

  • Personal safety and awareness
  • Domestic and family violence
  • 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

Information from NSW Police Engagement & Hate Crime Unit

2025 NSW Flood Disaster Appeal

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.”

Donation List:

  • Jessie Xiao
  • ⁠Lisa Harris 
  • Ellie Huang 
  • Nicole He
  • Linda Tang
  • Annie Tang 
  • Eugenia Lieu 
  • Shelley Wang 
  • ⁠June He 
  • Rosanna Ng 
  • Anny Chan
  • ⁠Mandy Van 
  • Sandy Tung 
  • Elaine Kong 
  • Sue Luo 
  • Maggie Lo 
  • Cindy Li 
  • Jennifer Cheung 
  • Gabbie Kwok 
  • Cherry Chau 
  • ⁠Queeny Pun 
  • Polly Chan