Join the free Embolden2025 Congress and Symposium this October. This year’s theme is Same, Same - But Different Ageism Ageism and Respect for Older People.
Embolden is a National Festival (Congress, Symposium, Art based events) combating ageism and building respect for older people. The goal is to build the capacity and confidence of service providers, policy makers, community leaders, and older people to accelerate the pace of change.
The annual Festival brings key stakeholders together to learn from each other and produce resources that accelerate the pace of change.
The 2025 theme Same, Same - But Different Ageism explores ageism across generations, cultures, and the intersections of power and privilege.
We propose a 'one size fits all' approach to combating ageism has limited efficacy - because ageism is experienced differently across generations, genders, race, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, ability, geography, and financial status.
Congress (1st Oct, 1-4pm)
The Congress of Older People’s Voices from the Margins creates opportunities to hear from older people from marginalised groups, to build better understandings of ageism, marginalisation, and strategies for change.
After several plenary presentations, Dilnaz Billimoria, Multicultural Honour Roll Inductee, will help to lead a conversation on reaching marginalised groups.
Presenters include:
Aunty Becky Thomson OAM, revered Quandamooka Elder
Ageing in a very remote community: Roz Blacket, Winton Resident, in conversation with Sally Fraser, Specialist Advisor Western Queensland Primary Health Network
Ageing with autism: Sandra Thom-Jones, Autistic Professor
The experiences of men 80+
Ageing in an African community
Shifting from ‘hard to reach’ to ‘hardly reached’: Dilnaz Billimoria, Multicultural Honour Roll Inductee
Symposium (2nd Oct, 1-4pm)
The Symposium begins by exploring how ageism differs across the lifespan.
We then present a framework for understanding the ageism context and characteristics (ie: drivers, levels of societal influence, impacts) and consideration of these is required for effective service responses and prevention.
A draft framework will be presented to delegates for discussion.
Art based activities
Check the webpage for more information about the Photo Essay exploring clothing and intergenerational connection - and the other activities.
The Embolden Congress and Symposium are free and hosted online to enable wide participation. The exhibitions and art-based activities will be hosted in locations around Australia. Registration through Humantix is free, or you are invited to pay a registration fee if you can afford it (suggested amount $20-$50).
Please note, you need to register separately for Congress and the Symposium.
More information
Check the Embolden webpage at the link below for information about supporting the Festival, about free registration, the program, and presenters.