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– Members’ Lunch with Kate Kennedy
Hosted by:
October 9, 2014 @ 11:30 pm - October 10, 2014 @ 1:00 am
New date – Thursday 9 October 2014
"In my many years of work in the criminal law and with Berry Street I thought I heard the worst about the physical and sexual abuse of women and children. Then, early last year, I heard Kate Kennedy, CEO of Hagar Australia, speak at a Melbourne Forum lunch about slavery, human trafficking and the extreme abuse of women and children in Southeast Asia. I was gobsmacked. Last September I flew to Cambodia to see Hagar’s extraordinary work for myself. It was an unforgettable experience: confronting, but inspiring!
Kate’s previous roles include Strategic Director of World Vision and Program Director with the Pratt Foundation. She is one of the most compelling speakers I have heard. We are bringing her back so that those of you who did not have the opportunity to hear last time can now do so. Returnees are also, of course, welcome! I will certainly be there."
 
; – Michael Strong – Melbourne Forum Events Committee
Kate is an accomplished leader who has a depth of experience across private, non-profit and government sectors in developing and implementing solutions to global and local disadvantage.
Her executive roles have included Strategic Director of World Vision, Program Director of The Pratt Foundation and major consulting projects with Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and the United Nations. She proudly founded professional volunteer network goodcompany in 2000 and has been non-executive director of Jesuit publications and MacKillop Family Services.
"In essence, I work to affect social change. I believe that it can be done through collaboration across the government, private and NGO sectors. This cooperation is vital in the face of challenges such as modern-day slavery, homelessness and poverty. A well-funded, strategic approach is essential. It takes more than good intent to facilitate lasting change."
Since January 2012, Kate has led Hagar's operations from Australia. Hagar Australia supports Hagar’s international projects through funding, program oversight, regional advocacy, international capacity building and other resources.