
MEET Charlotte Schrader and Ella Sorensen, two young women on a mission to reduce the impact of gendered violence in the community.
Having been inspired by the work of Sherele Moody at Australian Femicide Watch, the pair served as volunteer organisers of the Port Macquarie iteration of the nation-wide “Stop Killing Women Rally” last month.

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For Charlotte and Ella the rally provided an opportunity to stand in solidarity with victims and survivors of gendered violence.
It is a cause extremely close to Ella’s heart, having experienced firsthand the impacts of an abusive relationship.
“We all find our own outlets for healing,” Ella said.
“In the year after I left, l’d completely lost my identity.
“I had to rebuild everything I knew about myself, and about love.
“Feeling hopeless and alone, I befriended a pen and began to write everything down.
“For the first time in my life, I was doing something solely for myself, and soon I was able to reclaim my power, and in turn, my life.”
Charlotte and Ella said they found a renewed sense of purpose and determination after the rally.
“There is still so much work to be done in our community in regard to prevention and intervention of domestic violence,” said Charlotte.
The pair are now focused on establishing the “Reclaim Collective”, a safe space designed to provide support for young people who have experienced violence.
If anyone thinks they may be experiencing violence or coercion in their relationship, please reach out to Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Services on 6583 2155 or dial 1800RESPECT.
By Kim AMBROSE