2024 Refugee Ball

The annual  STARTTS Refugee Ball has established itself over the past fifteen years as a key event in the social calendar of the multicultural and community services sector in Australia, every year raising vital funds for and awareness of the work that STARTTS does to assist people who have survived torture and trauma.

We invite you to join us to celebrate the 15th Refugee Ball and Fundraiser for a memorable evening of engaging speakers, fundraising, and an energetic mix of world-class live music and cultural performance as we come together to help heal refugee trauma and promote respect for human rights.

Refugee Ball raffle prizes include a 2024 Westpac NSW Blues Signed Jersey, signed by the 2024 State of Origin squad.

WHY ARE WE FUNDRAISING?

In a time of ongoing conflicts around the world it is especially important to continue to provide programs of trauma counselling and other support to refugees and displaced people. The demand is ever increasing and STARTTS is dedicated to helping to rebuild lives. The Ball helps us raise funds to keep providing services and support to people who have survived terrible and traumatic experiences. Your donation will help us to provide more comprehensive services to the people that need them most, particularly children, young people and older refugees.

 CELEBRATE A JOURNEY

Sophea was born in Cambodia. At 7 years old she and her family were captured and forced to work 20-hour days in a hard labour camp. They were held in the camp for 7 years, where her father was murdered. Sophea has had complex PTSD, depression, and anxiety for most of her adult life. Sophea came to Australia when she was in her twenties and was referred to STARTTS in 2019. She has received counselling, SSP, CBT and Neurofeedback. Prior to her treatment, on any given day Sophea struggled with over 50 symptoms of her trauma, but now her life has completely changed. She is now working in the mental health sector, has a happy family, sleeps well and has recovered from the complex trauma that has plagued her since childhood.