Corporate Fundraising Series: Mates, Mentors, and Momentum

Mates, Mentors, and Momentum was the theme at the Story Bridge Hotel for the latest Fundraising Networking Lunch Series for meaningful connection and collaboration, while raising vital funds to support Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation mentoring and wellbeing programs across Queensland.

Supported by key event sponsors, McIlwain (Tim McIlwain), Baystone Legal (Victor Asoyo), Carter Farquar Mediation and Family Law (Damien Carter), and Charmlaw Foods (Bernard Waters), the attendees heard from a range of presenters, including Scott Emerson from government relations strategist GXO Strategies, Foundation CEO and founder John Godwin, and Foundation community engagement leader Jodi Brown.

A special message was played from the Foundation’s first youth ambassador, Elise Bell. Elise outlined how she will engage with young people through the Foundation’s Onwards & Upwards mentoring programs.

A premium wine tasting experience, curated by renowned sommelier and Baron of the Barossa, Darren Davis, of Davis & White Fine Wine Merchants, added a touch of style to the afternoon, with Davis providing an overview of each wine sourced for this event from the Barossa Valley.

“Young people are facing many challenges, and the opportunity to work with a mentor in a structured program is delivering results,” Foundation CEO and founder John Godwin said.

“Corporate support is pivotal to us being able to deliver these programs, and we look forward to continued involvement in our upcoming events.”

Event sponsor and father of six, Tim McIlwain, first had exposure to Inspiring Brighter Futures through the ‘Lads to Leaders’ program, which has seen four of his five boys complete.

“I saw firsthand how important the Foundation’s Onwards & Upwards mentoring program was to young people, designed to assist them as they become young men and leaders in the community,” McIlwain said.

Additionally, he has been able to provide financial support and employment opportunities for graduates of various Foundation programs through his family company, Queensland-based civil contractor, McIlwain.

“We’re also looking at how we can get our senior management team involved as mentors. Not only do young people going through the programs get a lot out of it, but it’s also extremely rewarding for the mentors.

“We know that youth crime is becoming a huge problem, and it’s well-documented how early intervention is effective, compared to just dealing with the results.

“One conversation can change a life.”

Further corporate opportunities in 2026 offer your business a prime opportunity to align with purpose and help shape brighter futures.

To sponsor a table or learn more, contact Paula Russo, [email protected]

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

The Foundation plans to hold over 80 programs in 2026 in Queensland, with its more than 600 active volunteer mentors focusing on its core groups of young people facing challenges, emerging student leaders, and job seekers.

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To learn more or donate, visit: inspiringbrighterfutures.com
ENDS media enquiries to Brenton Gibbs 0419 828 440 [email protected]