In times of crisis, women have long demonstrated a unique ability to lead, organise, and uplift communities, building resilience from the ground up. Across the globe, grassroots women’s organisations have shown extraordinary strength in mobilising resources, providing aid, and driving systemic change in response to disasters and challenges.
Situated on the northern coast of New South Wales, Byron Bay and its neighbouring communities form part of a region known as the Northern Rivers. This area, known for its progressive ideas and significant social challenges, is home to the Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRCF), which is marking 20 years of community-led change and has invested $10 million in grassroots local organisations
The scale of the challenge is stark: In 2023 alone, 1,349 domestic violence-related assaults were reported to police in the Northern Rivers. From 2022 to 2023, 2,310 women sought assistance from specialist homelessness services, while catastrophic floods displaced 10,000 people, with 1,800 still living in temporary housing.
Supported by the NRCF’s Women’s Giving Circle, three leaders across the region are driving innovative programs that break barriers, reshape narratives, and build resilience where it’s needed most.
Kate Jackson, Founder of Haus of Armour: fashion as a catalyst for healing
For survivors of domestic violence, rebuilding confidence is a deeply personal and challenging journey. Enter Kate Jackson, founder of Haus of Armour, a not-for-profit organisation using fashion to empower and transform. Having worked in social services and interior design, Jackson combines expertise and compassion to offer survivors free custom styling sessions with free clothes and outfits tailored to their unique needs.
“Choice is a powerful tool,” Kate explains. “For many survivors, simply deciding what to wear is an act of reclaiming control.” Supported by NRCF funding, Haus of Armour provides 45 women with three personally selected outfits and styling experiences in a safe, welcoming space.
Whether preparing for court, making a statement to Police, or simply struggling to face the day, these women regain strength through clothing that reflects their renewed sense of self-worth. Kate emphasises, “It’s not just about clothes; it’s about walking into daunting situations with your head held high. Clothing becomes armour.”
Her approach transcends fashion, focusing on the profound impact clothing can have on mental health and wellbeing. By combining elements of fashion, psychology, and social work, Haus of Armour creates lasting change, helping women to reconnect with their strength, independence, and identity on their own terms.
Jen Parke, Human Nature: meeting youth where they feel safe
Human Nature offers a lifeline to young people grappling with profound trauma, taking a fresh approach to youth mental health care. Unlike traditional therapy confined to clinical settings, Human Nature takes therapy outdoors, to beaches, parks, or wherever young people feel safest. By combining evidence-based psychological care with engaging, nature-based activities, this service builds deep trust and connection, transforming the therapeutic experience for youth in need
Recent funding is helping Human Nature address the needs of young women who have disclosed sexual violence, providing 90 tailored, trauma-informed therapy sessions. “Therapy in a room is not for everyone and so many people miss out as a result. Often something as simple as a walk on the beach or sitting in a calm outdoor space can make therapy so much more accessible,” explains Jen, Head of Operations.
This personalised care model empowers vulnerable youth to reclaim their voice, navigate complex trauma, and build resilience. “For many of these young people, it’s their first experience feeling truly seen and heard”.
Crystal Whitney, Women Up North: empowering women through self-defence and advocacy
Women Up North is on a mission to empower women and girls through practical self-defence and advocacy programs. Women Up North’s self-defence workshops offer a holistic approach to safety, teaching physical techniques while building emotional resilience and mental strength.
“Our workshops provide tools that extend far beyond physical self-defence,” explains program leader Crystal Whitney. “Participants gain confidence, learn to assert themselves, and feel in control of their environment.” Tailored to diverse needs, including older women, mothers, and those with mobility challenges, these sessions are creating a ripple effect of empowerment within communities.
Workshops conclude with a call to action: each participant is encouraged to teach a self-defence technique to someone they know, amplifying the impact. “This isn’t just about learning to fight back, it’s about transforming fear into strength and reclaiming agency over one’s life,” says Crystal.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Northern Rivers Community Foundation and its Women’s Giving Circle, you can head to their website.