The Literacy Society - IWD High Tea

A wonderful morning was held by all on Saturday at the Mount Alvernia College International Women’s Day High Tea.  The keynote speakers this year were Ashleigh Streeter-Jones, founder of Raise Our Voice Australia, and Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks, founder of Missing Perspectives.

This event is part of the Mount Alvernia College Literacy Society program. Being literate in contemporary society is so much more than being able to read and write. The literacies focused on at our 2024 High Tea were civic, political and media literacy. 

It is critical that young people understand the impact of policy and demand a voice in political decisions that impact their life. Ashleigh Streeter-Jones spoke about how young people are leading the way in many areas, such as campaigns for climate action and consent education. Yet, more needs to be done in order for federal MPs and Senators across the political spectrum to amplify the voices of young Australians. A key message that Ashleigh wants young people to hear is that no decision about young people should be made without involving young people in the process.

Media literacy is also critical in contemporary society where misinformation, disinformation, and fake news proliferate. It is imperative that young people are judicious in their consumption of media and question sources and perspectives presented by mainstream and social media channels. It was with this gaze that, Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks perceived the many missing perspective in mainstream media, and those of women, in particular. To address this imbalance, she began the media organisation, Missing Perspectives. 

Guests at the high tea were treated to an intelligent and thought-provoking presentation by both Ashleigh and Phoebe. I, for one, left feeling encouraged that Australia has astute and energetic young people that care about the future direction of this country and are encouraging others to be involved and engaged in the political and media landscapes. What wonderful role models for our students!

We invite you to view some of the photos taken at this special event. 

Should you wish to support Missing Perspectives and help them elevate the voices and perspectives of young women around the world,  you can do so via this link. Missing Perspectives will send you updates directly from the reporters you'll be supporting.