Cynthia Carter (nee Latham)-
Class of 1986
'Not for Our Own, but Others’ Good': A Kilvington Alumna Living the Motto
Kilvington’s motto, 'Not for Our Own, but Others’ Good' (Non nobis sed omnibus), is something many of us remember from our school days, but for me it has become a guiding principle that has shaped my philanthropic path well beyond graduation. As I reflect on the work I support today, I see clearly how deeply that simple statement continues to influence my priorities, values, and hopes for the community around me.
One of the organisations I am proud to support is Prison Network (PN), which provides emotional, practical, and spiritual support to women in prison and their families, during incarceration and post their release. Their work is grounded in dignity, compassion, and the belief that connection can change a life. Each interaction I have with this organisation reminds me that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported—especially those facing circumstances that isolate them from society. It is humbling to witness how small acts of care can restore confidence and rebuild hope.
I have recently been instrumental in establishing PN’s first social enterprise: New Leash Dog Salon in Maling Rd, Canterbury that will meet all your dog grooming needs, provide training and jobs for vulnerable women and an income stream to further PN’s work.
I am also actively involved with the Society of Women Leaders (SWL), a collective of women committed to creating meaningful impact through collaborative giving. Being part of this community has shown me the power of shared purpose: when women come together, combining resources, influence, and passion, the ripple effect is extraordinary. Together we are able to champion domestic and international Red Cross programs that create opportunities for change that benefit entire communities, such as the Galiwin’ku Baby Hub on Elcho Island that I had the privilege of visiting earlier this year.
Cynthia visits Elcho Island
The Baby Hub
Cynthia visits Elcho Island
The Baby Hub
Lastly, I was fortunate enough to trek the Inca trail to Machu Picchu in October to raise money and awareness for the Childhood Dementia Initiative - yes childhood dementia is a thing! The trek took four days and although getting up at 3am and walking hours in the rain wasn’t much fun, my discomfort paled into insignificance considering what the parents of a child with dementia go through every day. It was a humbling experience to shine a light on a heartbreaking but often overlooked condition.
Cynthia tackles the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail
Cynthia tackles the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail
Across these philanthropic commitments, I often find myself returning to the Kilvington ethos that shaped me. The idea that what we have—our education, our skills, our time—is not solely for our advancement but for service to others, remains as relevant now as it was when I first encountered it as a student. Supporting organisations that foster hope, connection, and empowerment allows me to live out that value in a tangible way.
I am grateful that Kilvington planted in me the desire to contribute beyond myself. I hope today’s students also discover the lasting fulfilment that comes from choosing to live “not for our own, but others’ good.”
If you would like to know more about Society of Women Leaders, Prison Network or Childhood Dementia and how you can be involved please visit: