Business Meets Impact: Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation Celebrates Successful Lunch Series

The Fundraising Networking Lunch Series has been a resounding success, bringing together business leaders, philanthropists, and changemakers to connect through purpose, partnership, and a shared commitment to creating positive impact.

Launched in 2025 by the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, the luncheons are held at Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge Hotel, offered a relaxed setting for meaningful connection and collaboration, all while raising vital funds to support the Foundation’s mentoring and wellbeing programs across Queensland.

Each event featured inspiring guest speakers, including Foundation mentors and participants who shared firsthand accounts of the transformative power of mentoring. Their stories brought the Foundation’s mission – empowering young people to move Onwards & Upwards – to life, reminding guests of the tangible impact their support has in communities across the state.

The luncheons blended heartfelt conversation with fine food and wine tastings, generously provided by Darren Davis of Davis & White Fine Wine Merchants.

Sponsors and supporters included: GXO Strategies, McIlwain, Bromley Real Estate, Solomons Legal, Pitcher Partners, Charmlaw Foods, Rob Siganto, Queensland Country Bank, Sentinel Property Group, The Brokerage, The Richards Group, and BDO Australia.

“We’re thrilled by the reception and involvement of our corporate partners,” said Paula Russo, the Foundation’s Fundraising and Partnerships Leader. “Around $65,000 has been raised through these lunches, and we deeply value this support.

“Each event has highlighted the power of sharing stories and experiences. We’ve heard from incredible mentors, facilitators, and participants, and we’re truly moved by the generosity of our corporate partners.

“We’re excited to grow these events in the coming year and welcome new sponsors to help us expand our programs.”

The success of the 2025 Networking Lunch Series has laid the foundation for an expanded calendar in 2026. With increasing corporate interest and community engagement, the Foundation plans to take the series to new regions, including Townsville and the Gold Coast, continuing to foster impactful connections between business and community.

Onwards & Upwards is the flagship self-development program of the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, designed to support young people and adults in need.

In 2025, the Foundation is delivering more than 80 programs across Queensland, focusing on three core groups: young people facing challenges, emerging student leaders, and job seekers.

ENDS media enquiries to Brenton Gibbs 0419 828440 [email protected]