On May 8, 2025, Zonta House hosted Reclaiming the F Word; a bold and energising evening that brought together changemakers, community leaders, and advocates to explore what the F word “feminism” means today, and how it can shape a safer, more equitable future for all.
Held at Mineral Resources Park, the home of the West Coast Eagles, the event was more than a panel discussion, it was a celebration of courage, connection, and collective action.
Guests were welcomed with live music, delicious food, and a spirit of openness and inclusion. The energy in the room was electric, and the conversations were deeply personal, political, and powerful.
A Panel of Trailblazers
The evening was anchored by a keynote address from Tori Cooke, Director of Pandora Projects, whose 25 years of experience in family violence practice and governance set the tone for a night of truth-telling and transformation.
Tori’s insights into systemic change and trauma-informed leadership laid the groundwork for a rich and reflective panel conversation.
Joining her were six extraordinary women whose lived experience, professional expertise, and passion for equity lit up the stage:
- Stacey Ward, Principal Consultant at Rio Tinto and founder of the Young Woman’s Boxing Project, spoke about navigating the tech sector and martial arts arenas as a woman, and the importance of creating spaces where young women can lead with confidence.
- Jan Cooper OAM, West Coast Eagles board member and long-time advocate for women in sport, brought a legacy of leadership and a deep understanding of how representation drives change.
- Shamsa Lea, Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer at Anglicare WA, shared her journey from Air Force veteran to social reformer, highlighting the intersections of gender, leadership, and justice.
- Lucy Peach, author, educator, and folk singer, invited the audience to rethink menstruation through the lens of empowerment, using science and song to challenge stigma and celebrate self-love.
- Marissa Verma, founder of Bindi Bindi Dreaming, offered a powerful perspective on cultural identity, resilience, and the healing wisdom of Country, drawing from her lived experience and Noongar heritage.
Together, the panel explored the central question: What does the “F word” feminism — mean to me? Their answers were as diverse as their backgrounds, touching on themes of intersectionality, allyship, leadership, and the everyday acts of resistance that shape our communities.
A Space for Connection
Beyond the stage, the event created a space where people could be themselves, to listen, share, laugh, and reflect. Attendees mingled, networked, and connected over shared values and visions. The warmth and generosity in the room were palpable, and many left feeling inspired, energised, and more deeply connected to a community committed to change.
Gratitude and Momentum
Zonta House extends heartfelt thanks to our speakers, partners, and every guest who joined us with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a full variety of “F words”. Your presence helped grow our community and strengthen our networks in ways that will ripple far beyond this event.
