In early 2023, we launched a brand new initiative ''A Lifetime of Stories'', a series of storytelling workshops designed for senior members of the Irish Australian community residing in the Greater Sydney Area.

This project aimed to provide meaningful and lasting social connection opportunities for older people who are socially isolated or at risk of isolation. Storytelling allows us to form deeper social connections, by evoking empathy, which naturally brings people together, through shared life experiences.

Our goal was to provide a platform for participants to document their personal life stories, history, and legacies, ultimately creating cherished printed storybooks which were presented today. The outcomes of this endeavour have surpassed our expectations, affirming the profound and timeless power of storytelling. By sharing our narratives, we forge enduring social connections and explore the depths of the human experience.

We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Salesforce volunteers who worked hand in hand with our seniors, ensuring that their voices were truly heard and acknowledged. This initiative flourished with your support and we thank you!

Thank you also to the Department of Foreign Affairs' Emigrant Support Programme for kindly supporting this project with a grant.

If you, or someone you may know, is interested in participating in future workshops, please call Una on 02 9300 8019 to express your interest.