Why I'm fundraising for women and girls in crisis
In October 2023, I became a mum to my daughter Harper. The recent conflict in Palestine began two weeks before her birth. When Harper arrived, a human rights disaster that was already horrifying took on an even deeper meaning. Motherhood connects you to other mums and their children.
UNICEF have called Gaza the ‘most dangerous place to be a child’. Beyond Gaza, There are 614 million women and girls living in conflict affected areas today. From Palestine to Ukraine, Haiti, Sudan, and Afghanistan, their numbers are going up, as geopolitical conflicts, climate change, health and food crises intensify.
I'm taking part in Trek for Rights 2025 to raise vital funds to support UN Women's efforts, in partnership with local women’s organisations , to provide critical services hope, and a lifeline to women and girls in war-torn countries and communities affected by natural disasters.
Why are you taking a trip, why don’t you simply fundraise?
When I saw the UN Trek for Rights trip, it ticked many boxes, not least because I must hit a fundraising goal of $3000 for UN Women to go to NZ and trek the South Island. It would keep me motivated and focused during a period of my life when I’m still adjusting to this new ‘schedule’ of parenthood (aka. A lot less free time!). I want to make the most of that time for myself and others.
When you become a Mother, you also have to be efficient. I have some other goals for myself with this trip. Anyone who knows me understands that mountains and bushwalking are my happy place. Physical fitness keeps me grounded. I’m not going to lie; I’ve found it hard to access those things that make me ‘me’ in this first year of parenthood. And, as cliché as it might sound, setting a positive example and living my values through action is something I want Harper to see as she grows up.
To achieve my goal I need 60 people to contribute $50.00. Of course, whatever you can contribute would be greatly appreciated. I would appreciate if you would consider contributing to the cause.
**All funds raised go to UN Women. I pay for my travel expenses personally. **
**Unfortunately, if you're in Canada, I can't issue a tax receipt. However, I'd be grateful if you would consider a small gift in support**
My Achievements
Thank You
$322.83
Carole Wark
$263.75
Les Wark
Great work, enjoy
$211
Anonymous
Great work Emily
$211
John And Róisín Pengelly
Such a worthwhile cause, Em 🍉
$200
Ruchard
$158.25
Thomas Schultz
Proud of you. Love Dad and Debbie
$158.25
Colleen O’connells
Good for you!
$129.76
Amy Shipp
Go strong, Emily! Love Amy, Dylan, Emily, Olive, Maeve and Violet!
$129.76
Bradley Palmer
$105.50
Beth, Don, Fionn And Hola
Go Em!
$105.50
Greg Stewart
$93.90
Amy J
Good work, Em!
$79.13
Anthony Abdallah
$79.13
Geoff Farnsworth
Go Emily!
$79.13
Jt Stokesbury
$52.75
Kristy Chapman
$52.75
Alfie Gail
Go get it Em!!! Love Gail and alfie xx
$52.75
Michelle Vanderzon
Proud of you!
$52.75
Cassia
Happy to support a great cause, well done Em xx
$52.75
Adeline Regnault
$52.75
Kirsty
Yess!!!
$52.75
Emma Boult
$52.75
Joyce Teng
Such a worthy cause. Go Emily!
$52.75
Noynoy Sisneros
Go for it!
$52.75
Shane Deering
Best of luck with the trek!
$52.75
Josh Wallace
Love your work, Emily! Best of luck with it!!
$52.75
Malin Ekberg
$50
Hutch
Best of luck - enjoy.
$40.09
Tony Pittorino
Good luck Emily
$40.09
Jan Siteman
Wonderful fundraiser.
$40.09
Jess Shonk
Good luck with trek Em and your vulnerability and honesty in your insta post was beautiful. 😀
$40.09
Allan Goldsworthy
$40.09
Lynne O'connell
So very proud of you Emily. You are and will be a wonderful role model to Harper Helen. Your beautiful message and values are uplifting. Love Aunt Lynne
$26.38
Nicole Macdonald
Supporting moms!
$21.10
Margaret Donnellan
$10.55
Jennifer Napier
Love your reasons for doing this and love your big heart. Good luck!! Xo
Go strong Em for this fabulous cause!