Those of us who run for-purpose ventures have often needed to defend or explain what we do to those sceptical and distrustful that business will ever be a valid pathway to real social change.

This session aims to create a safe and confidential space where we, as impact economy actors, can surface and respond to some of the more challenging aspects of our work.

Join Cindy Mitchell as she facilitates a Q&A about some of the wicked problems inherent in participating in the very economic system that has been complicit in the dispossession of millions and threatens all forms of life on earth. While we can’t solve them all, its important to understand that you are not alone!

No formal presentation—just a small group discussion in response to provocation such as:

• Social enterprise financial sustainability is a myth.

• Hey, that’s MY Client, not yours—over-claiming and the commodification of impact

• The problem of white saviour-ism and fragility

• Not all Indigenous businesses are social enterprises.

• Pay to Play- ethical storytelling and valuing lived experience.

• Leaving the place better than you found it—intermediation and capability development.

• Are we all just re-arranging the deck chairs on the Titanic?

Supporting (young) people experiencing extreme crises in their mental health can be horrific and terrifying and/or beautiful Cnd inspiring. Reflect together on hoh we can be just and loving in caring for those afflicted.

Chris has a Bachelor of Arts and other study in Youth Work, Leadership Coaching and Residential Care. Some of his old job titles have been Youth Educator, Youth Facilitator, Youth Minister, Youth Worker: so obviously I love working with young people and encouraging people who care for them. At the moment I do project management in the child and family sector.

He is also the Chair/President of Praxis Victoria, a not-for-profit Incorporated Association running an emerging, low cost professional development network for Christian workers in youth and community services.

Ben Howes is Tearfund Australia’s Southeastern Church & Community Engagement Lead! I grew up in the Yarra Valley on Wurundjeri Country, lived for a time on the Great Ocean Road, and had the privilege of living & learning with beautiful communities in Timor Leste, North East Arnhem Land and China.

I’m an environmental educator and keen permaculture nerd, with experience in geographical field research, primary & secondary teaching and childrens and youth ministry. Most weekends you’ll find me at a kids church or youth group in Victoria…generally singing with an acoustic!

I’m really excited dive deep into scripture together to explore creation care, climate change impact in hard places, and a creative, lemon-themed, family-friendly global advocacy action to encourage our Australian leaders to keep our planet beautiful!