The Give Where You Live Foundation’s 2025 Give Geelong Breakfast was a celebration of resilience and inspiration, held on Friday 21 March.
Proudly presented by BBC Digital, this annual event is a key part of the Foundation’s Give Geelong Appeal, with all proceeds supporting the Foundation’s work to create a fairer community. As one of the Foundation’s longest running annual fundraising events, the Give Geelong Breakfast raises funds to support people in our community facing long-term unemployment, homelessness, and food insecurity.
This year’s keynote speaker, Dr Rachael ‘Raygun’ Gunn, renowned breakdancer, academic and Olympian, shared her deeply personal story of resilience in the face of intense public scrutiny. Reflecting on her pre and post Olympic experience, Raygun offered guests a powerful message about embracing individuality and overcoming adversity.
“Overnight I became a meme. From the first meme that made fun of me, to the hate directed towards me and my family, there’s been difficult times. I’ve been hated and misjudged for what people think they know about me.”
“For me, resilience is ongoing, has no time frame and requires work, and struggle. Often you spring back into a new shape and have to accept a new reality. So, let’s just be kinder to one another. Don’t be afraid to be different, go out there and represent yourself, you never know where that’s going to take you.”
Give Where You Live Foundation Head of Fundraising & Communications, Kristi Clapinski said the Foundation was delighted to have Raygun at the event, describing her message as both powerful and timely.
“The Give Where You Live Foundation exists to create a fairer community and drive positive social change. Raygun’s message of self-expression, embracing individuality, and pushing boundaries aligns with our broader efforts to support inclusion and resilience in our community.”
“Her story highlighted the importance of resilience and kindness. She sparked meaningful conversation, fostered empathy, and, I believe, inspired real change.”
The breakfast also included an address by Sarah Hayden—social worker, Mayor of Golden Plains Shire, and dedicated advocate for neurodivergence. Sarah spoke openly about her personal journey, including her recent ADHD diagnosis, and the power of embracing authenticity.
Often being told she was ‘too much’, Sarah encouraged guests to embrace being true to themselves and consider being authentic as an act of courage.
Guests were also treated to a special performance from event host, Amy Lehpamer. Born and raised in Geelong, Amy is a celebrated musical theatre star, well known for her performances in ‘& Juliet’ and ‘The Sound of Music’. As MC of the event, Amy wowed guests singing two musical numbers from her repertoire and creating an upbeat atmosphere to start the day.
Part of the Give Geelong Appeal, the event raised important funds to support people in our community facing long-term unemployment, homelessness, and food insecurity.
