Support to Attend United Nations March 2025

Hi, I’m Evie Joy. I’m an advocate, artist, and community services teacher.

I’m also a single mum and spent most of my adult life in an abusive relationship. I’ve been at risk of homelessness or homeless for much of the past decade, but not homeless ‘enough’ to qualify for support from government agencies. At times I had to return to an abusive ex-partner just to secure accommodation for my son and I.

2025 is the first year I’ve lived free from domestic and family violence. I realise this makes me an outlier among women living in similar circumstances. I am a survivor, not a victim.

I am excited to share that the United Nations has chosen me to present at their annual Commission on the Status of Women in New York in March 2025. I will share my experiences of homelessness and housing as a woman. My art will be on display as part of the UNSEEN Women’s Artist Group at the event “UNSEEN: women, violence and homelessness.”

My catalyst for escaping a violent relationship was a family member’s decision to end her life to escape their own violent marriage. I sought support from service providers but did not qualify for housing relief because I was “couch surfing” with friends. Conversely, I was unable to secure private rental accommodations because I was employed part-time and raising a child. As a woman who has experienced multiple generations of violence, have felt unseen in my life. I am often overlooked by the systems that don't grant me the freedom and justice I deserve.

I have begun to rebuild my life and now live independently in a private rental property. I work at St George and Sutherland Community College in Sydney as a Community Services teacher for migrant students. I became the Local Woman of the Year 2016 in regional NSW. I am a Community Worker with degrees in Youth Work, Counselling and Management, and I have extensive experience running community and volunteer driven programs.

I am also an artist and foundational member of the UNSEEN Women’s Artists Group. I use my creative practice as a poet to raise public awareness and improve social cohesion for women who feel isolated and alone.

My work will be displayed at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in New York on 10-21 March 2025. There I will share my experiences of homelessness and housing as a woman. My art will be on display as part of the UNSEEN Women’s Artist Group at the event “UNSEEN: women, violence and homelessness.”

I’m asking you as part of my community to sponsor my attendance. Your contributions will ensure I can attend the forum, share my Australian experience with an international audience, and return with insights to help other women in our communities.

I look forward to contributing to change concepts in the approaches towards women with disabilities and homelessness.

This is a unique opportunity, and any support is appreciated.