By Emanuele Esposito
With emotion, dignity, and hope, the 2025 Red Shield Appeal by The Salvation Army was officially launched in a multicultural event filled with powerful stories of resilience and community.
Sheba Nandkeolyar, CEO of MultiConnexion Group, opened the event by recalling her personal experience of receiving help from the Salvation Army at age 21 in India. “Never judge anyone—you don’t know their story. Respect everyone. And above all, kindness always wins over money,” she said.
Keynote speaker Katrina Rathie, award-winning lawyer and business leader, shared how her family tradition of doorknocking for the Appeal began when she was 12 and continues with her sons.
Recalling her Chinese grandparents’ arrival in Sydney in 1937, she said, “There’s always someone doing it tougher,” urging donations of any size. “Hope alone isn’t enough. We must act. Be the hope others need.”
Colonel Winsome Merrett, Chief Secretary of The Salvation Army Australia, spoke of the organisation’s mission since 1880. Last year alone, they provided over 1 million nights of accommodation, 1.5 million meals, and 1.76 million sessions of care. She shared the story of two Iranian refugees who found purpose in a Persian-speaking Salvos church and José, a Filipino-Australian overcoming addiction.
Shamima, from Bangladesh, brought many to tears with her story. Abandoned with two children, she said the Salvation Army offered safety and dignity. “They listened. They didn’t judge. They treated me with dignity.” With their help, she rebuilt her life. The 2025 Red Shield Appeal is a reminder that in a diverse Australia, no one should be left behind. To donate, visit www.salvationarmy.org.au before June 30. All donations over $2 are tax deductible.
