By Carly Cassidy- National Church Relationships Manager
Last year, I had the opportunity to join the Micah Australia Women’s Delegation in Canberra, alongside women from across the country united by a shared hope for a safer world for all. Coming from different denominations, cultures, professions and experiences, we gathered with a common commitment to justice, compassion and advocacy for vulnerable communities around the world.
Throughout the delegation, we spent time learning from the Micah Australia team before meeting with ministers, senators and MPs from across the political spectrum. Across more than 40 meetings, conversations centred on Australia’s role in supporting peace, stability and long term development beyond our borders.
This year, Lynette Chan, Finance Lead at Global Mission Partners and I were encouraged to attend the Micah Women’s Dinner and witness the continued growth of the movement. The network now includes around 1,200 women from 13 Christian denominations across Australia, reflecting a growing desire among women of faith to engage in advocacy and global justice conversations.
A unique part of this year’s gathering was the strong focus on equipping women with practical ways to respond to global issues, not simply raising awareness.
Through the Safer World for All campaign, conversations centred on how everyday advocacy, whether through prayer, political engagement, church mobilisation or community action, can contribute towards long term change.
Hearing from guest speaker Asuntha Charles was particularly impactful. Drawing from more than 25 years of humanitarian work across conflict affected regions including Afghanistan, Sudan and the Middle East, she shared stories of resilience, courage and hope from communities living through crises.
Her reflections challenged attendees not to lose sight of the humanity behind global issues and reminded the room that advocacy begins with listening and responding faithfully.
For Global Mission Partners, these conversations connect closely with the work of our partners and communities around the world.
Through local churches, education initiatives, community development, advocacy and long term relationships, we continue to see how partnership can help bring hope and practical support in challenging places.
One of the most meaningful parts of the experience was witnessing the diversity within the network itself. Women from different backgrounds and traditions came together with a shared desire to seek justice, speak with compassion and encourage practical action.
Advocacy can take many forms, whether through attending events like the Micah Women’s Dinner, engaging with local representatives, signing petitions or praying for communities affected by poverty and conflict.
While change is often gradual, these conversations help keep the vision of a safer and more compassionate world in front of decision makers and communities alike.
The growing network of women involved in this movement is a reminder that collective voices, grounded in faith and action, can continue to make a meaningful difference.