People and Places
29/06/2023
Women with a vision on a mission
by Mornington Peninsula Magazine

On Friday, June 2, the highly anticipated launch of the I Am Enough documentary took place at McClelland Gallery, gathering a vibrant crowd of 150 supporters and friends. Spearheaded by Jodie Belyea, the founder of the Women’s Spirit Project, this event marked a significant milestone.

The documentary, expertly filmed by Thomas Barnes from Colossal Films, showcased the powerful stories of four incredible women: Jan Baker, Adele Paterson, Mel F, and Kim Taylor. Their experiences shed light on the profound impact of trauma on their lives. Supported with commentary from Juanita Sanger, Dr Jasmine Charles, and Women’s Health in the South East CEO Kit McMahon, the documentary underscored the crucial role of the WSP in aiding women on their journey of healing and recovery.

The WSP is dedicated to inspiring, empowering and supporting women in their pursuit to transform their lives by providing free and accessible fitness, health and well-being activities specifically tailored for women who are recovering from trauma and seeking to reclaim their lives with the support of other women.

“Thank you to all our friends and supporters for attending the night and donating their time, money and goods to keep supporting women in our community,” Jodie said. “A heartfelt thanks to Julian Pocock and George Giuliani from the Common Goodness Foundation and Shannon Smit from SMART Business Solutions for funding the documentary, helping us host the night, and delivering these vital initiatives in the Frankston, Kingston and Mornington Peninsula communities.”

Jodie also acknowledged the ongoing advocacy efforts of Dunkley federal Labor MP Peta Murphy, who she said had been instrumental in advancing the cause of the WSP. The support from local government – namely Mayor Nathan Conroy of Frankston City Council, Mayor Sadi Haad from Kingston Council, and councillors Claire Harvey, Sue Baker, Sarah Race, Despi O’Connor, Antonelli Celli, and Deputy Mayor Chris Hill – was deemed invaluable in furthering the organisation’s mission.

A special shout-out was given to Angela Limanis, the talented auctioneer from Ray White, who alongside Cr Conroy played a pivotal role in the successful and fun-filled auction, raising an astounding $39,000. The exceptional work of the MCs and WSP directors Dr Catherine Baird and Kathy Heffernan kept the event on track and ensured a memorable evening for all in attendance.

For those who missed the first showing of the documentary, a second screening will be held on July 22 in Frankston at a much lower admission cost to ensure access to the event, particularly for disadvantaged women. The screening will be held in combination with a soul-nurturing women’s circle called I Am Enough and the launch of two new programs: the Women’s Spirit Circles, and Catch Up & Connect walks, which are a great opportunity to get out of the house despite the weather and connect with a like-minded group in a non-competitive, empowering environment. The first walk will be on July 30 from 9.30-11.30am at Frankston Reservoir.

Details and bookings are available via Facebook and Instagram @TheWomensSpiritProject

The next Spirit of Transformation program will be delivered on the Peninsula from August to November. Visit https://womensspiritproject.org/spirit-of-transformation-2023/ for more information and to submit an application.