Unity College student encourages us all to ride and strive for hope
Don’t be silent, Neko Schoenau says – take a stand against domestic violence.
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Domestic violence is a problem in the Murraylands community, and 15-year-old Neko Schoenau is determined to do something about it.
The Unity College year nine student has organised a walking and cycling event which will take place in Murray Bridge next Wednesday.
The donations he takes at the gates of Johnstone Park – and through an online portal – will go to the Zahra Foundation, an organisation which provides free programs, services, education and grants to women affected by domestic violence.
He hopes to raise $5000.
Neko said he had been inspired to take action after finding that many of his classmates didn’t know what domestic violence was.
“We shouldn’t stop talking about (something) just because it’s an ugly topic,” he said.
“If people know what it is, even if it’s an ugly topic to talk about … it might stop people from doing it.”
His mission is also a deeply personal one.
He, his mum and his brother are survivors of domestic violence themselves.
Get along and support Neko next Wednesday
Next Wednesday, everyone in the community will be invited to come down to the oval and walk or ride a few laps to support the cause.
There will be drinks for sale, sausages available for a gold coin donation, and a raffle featuring goods donated by local business.
A representative of the foundation will give a presentation.
The event will even contribute to Neko’s education – he is organising the whole thing as his “passion project” for school.
Asked how locals could make it a success, he had a simple answer.
“Hopefully a lot more people will know what (domestic violence) is, and money gets raised for the Zahra Foundation so they can help more people,” he said.
“It’s about getting a conversation started.
“Silence is domestic violence’s best friend.”
- Attend the Ride and Strive for Hope: 11am-2pm on Wednesday, November 5 at Johnstone Park, Murray Bridge.
- Give a donation: zahrafoundation.supporterhub.net.au.
- Donate something for the raffle: Email Amy Ramsbottom at amy_ramzy@hotmail.com or find her on Facebook.
- Get help: Visit the Haven at Murray Bridge Community Centre between 9am and 4pm on weekdays, or the DVINA Centre at 1 Standen Street, Murray Bridge; call the Domestic Violence Crisis Line on 1800 737 732, or Murray Mallee Adelaide Hills Domestic Violence Service on 8228 8960; or, in an emergency, dial 000.
