CHAIR'S MESSAGE 

Cathy O'Connor 

One of Sony Foundation’s greatest assets is the spirit of collaboration shared amongst our partners. In the Foundation’s history, there has never been such a need for services to support the health and wellbeing of young people across the nation. Since its inception in 1998, Sony Foundation’s backbone has been our Media, Corporate and Philanthropic Partners. In the past year, this support has been stronger than ever as our partners rallied together to ensure our programs, services and spaces continue to provide critical support for our young people, and for this, we are incredibly grateful.

With thanks to the unwavering generosity of our 51 Corporate, Media and Philanthropic Partners, who donated funds, goods and services this year, Sony Foundation has been able to create positive experiences and social change for youth across Australia with cancer, disability, experiencing homelessness or disadvantage, and those affected by the Black Summer Bushfires. Over the past 12 months: five bushfire affected communities have established youth sanctuaries as a space to foster community resilience; nearly $500,000 worth of emergency accommodation was provided at no cost to regional youth cancer patients and their families; over 230 children with special needs were provided the holiday of a lifetime with Sony Camps adapting to COVID-19 safe local restrictions; 20 young people battling addiction, abuse and homelessness were given the opportunity to realise their potential through an intensive mentoring program; and, over 11,000 meals were served to the homeless throughout Sydney.

I would like to thank the Board Directors, all of whom gave so generously of their time and expertise to guide Sony Foundation. My sincere thanks to our retiring Directors, Denis Handlin and Damian Eales, for your service to the Foundation.  Your commitment and devotion to our causes has had a remarkable positive roll-on effect across our communities. I am delighted to welcome Commissioner Michael Fuller to the Board. Commissioner Fuller joined the Board as a Director in March, bringing incredible insight and great strategic aptitude. Finally, thank you to the generous collective of volunteers who bring an energy and passion that inspires us all.

Thank you all for your support and backing.

Cathy O'Connor
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director,
oOh! Pty Ltd