Building Community

In a world that feels like it’s constantly moving at lightning speed, where busyness is worn like a badge of honour and technology saturates every part of our lives…authentic connection seems harder and harder to find.

Research reveals more than 1 in 4 Australians experience loneliness, with an even higher percentage of youth aged 18-24 impacted (up to 50%). Loneliness is a significant risk factor for poor physical and mental health, and a decreased quality of life (KPMG, 2022).

Although we know we can’t wave a magic wand to fix the problem of loneliness, we do believe we can be a part of the solution. By creating beautiful spaces where people feel safe to step outside their comfort zone, where shared experiences (like learning dance) begin to melt away social barriers, we have seen how connections inevitably form (and it’s our favourite thing EVER to witness)!

We also believe there is great value in simply giving people the experience of joy, and of having something to look forward to. We hope to be gifts of goodness for people to mark down in their diaries and calendars to excitedly anticipate. And then to create the most magical experiences for every guest, where they’d feel seen, known and loved.

We love our community SO much, and are here to add as much colour and vibrancy to it as we possibly can.

Reaching across the globe

After returning from 7 months working with a community development organisation in Uganda (Jenga), and completing a Bachelor of Humanitarian and Community Studies, I was keen to continue supporting some of the amazing projects I’d witnessed changing lives. This was one of the biggest motivating factors for Jolly Good Events to begin – fundraising.

My experience, research and training in the field of community development and health (I also hold a Master of International Public Health) has been valuable in partnering with reputable organisations and projects, ensuring money raised goes to organisations doing the delicate work of development in the best possible way (ie, sustainable, ground-up, local-led approaches).

Across 10 events, we have raised over $38,000

  • Jireh Christian Academy

    A school providing quality education, healthcare and clean water for orphans and vulnerable children in Ngora District, Uganda. Our funds enabled the purchasing of land and materials for a school building, as well as essential books and stationary.

  • Wise Choices for Life

    An organisation helping to break intergenerational poverty and reduce maternal mortality by transforming thinking and behaviour through culturally relevant Reproductive Health Literacy. Our funds helped purchase valuable educational materials to reach more families and young people.

    Find out more here.

  • Young Women’s Vocational Training (Jenga)

    A project providing vocational training and support to vulnerable single mothers in Mbale, Uganda. This program offers certified training in cooking, house-keeping, nutrition, hair-dressing and tailoring, as well as guidance in establishing and maintaining small businesses. Our funds have gone towards training materials such as new sewing machines and hairdressing equipment.

    Find out more here.