In early October Melbourne hosted Australia’s first festival challenging ageism and building respect for older people. Embolden2018 included a Market of Great Ideas, a series of plenary presentations, the launch of the Elder Leadership Academy and a Fashion Parade called SPUNK. The Fashion Parade featured models 65+, promoted beauty as an attitude and invited models to name their catwalk attitude and take it with them into their lives as a protective factor against ageism.
Embolden2018 was self-funded by the Celebrate Ageing Program, attracted over 250 delegates, 38 models and 16 sponsors. Event organiser Dr Catherine Barrett said a highlight was a message of support from Maggie – and event delegates were all given a Maggie Beer ice-cream while information was shared about the Maggie Beer Foundation.
More information: celebrateageing.com/embolden
Photography www.julianmeehan.com