Sandy Davis is the pocket rocket powerhouse behind Lutheran Care’s biennial Gala Dinner, the major fundraising event that in her time with the organisation has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for people in need. Through her hands on efforts, thousands of families have been fed, clothed, homed, and supported through Lutheran Care’s crisis relief programs which receive no government funding. Sandy brings humour, passion and kindness to everything she does, and has the ability to make strong connections with every section of the community – by being always herself, by always treating everyone equally, and always fighting for the underdog.
The United Nations’ theme for International Women’s Day is “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” What does this mean to you?
The IWD 2025 theme, “Focusing on the Need to Accelerate Action,” means a great deal to me. Over the past 45 years (that seems so long when writing it), I’ve witnessed and experienced countless situations in the workplace that, thankfully, would be unacceptable today. Progress has been made—there’s no doubt about that—but we still have a long road ahead that needs swift action. Recognitions like this and how far we must go, remind us that gender equality isn’t a destination; it’s an ongoing effort. We must keep pushing forward to truly level the playing field for women all over the world.
Tell us a little about what you do in your role and why you do it.
My role at Lutheran Care—and indeed, every role I’ve had over the past too many years to mention—has been in philanthropy. I began my career at IBM Australia, but it wasn’t long before I was drawn to the not-for-profit sector, driven by a deep passion for supporting those in need in any way I can. Growing up in the Northern Territory and marrying in to an Indigenous family, I understood from an early age the importance of community, for pitching in and lending a hand where it’s most needed. That passion and desire to help has guided my journey ever since.
Which woman inspires/inspired you and why? What’s the most important advice you ever got from a woman in your life?
My mother is my greatest inspiration and the reason I’ve dedicated my life to making a difference wherever I can. As a teacher of young adults, she had an incredible gift for changing the trajectory of so many lives—especially girls who were on the risky path of self-sabotage. Our home was always open, day and night, to students and our friends who needed a helping hand, and I saw firsthand the power of kindness, guidance, and belief in someone’s potential. She faced and overcame devastating challenges in her own life, including the unimaginable loss of a child. Yet through it all, she taught me the strength to keep going, one step at a time, and never look back. Her resilience and compassion have guided the path I walk today.
What are your hopes for young women today?
As a proud ‘Nanny’ to my beautiful granddaughter, my greatest hope is that we continue to advocate for women everywhere, to ensure they can succeed, survive, and thrive in every aspect of life – whether at home, in their careers, or within their communities. I dream of a world where all women are safe, respected, and valued. Too often, the greatest threats come from within their own circles—partners, family, colleagues, or leaders meant to protect them.
I hope for my granddaughter she experiences a future where trust is never broken by violence, coercion, or discrimination, and where women and girls can live confidently, supported, empowered, and safe in the relationships, workplaces and spaces they cherish – especially by those they trust the most.
As a woman who’s been around the block a few times, I truly believe we’re moving in the right direction when it comes to how society views and treats girls and women. Progress is happening, but it’s not enough just to make strides. At this rate it will be a very long time before we reach full gender parity. We need to continue to do more in respecting and acknowledging women both in our work life and society.
If I could have just one wish for women and girls, it would be simple: I want them to be safe – to feel free to thrive every single day. Safety, in every sense of the word – physically, emotionally, and mentally. Women shouldn’t have to fight for that basic right. Every woman, every girl, deserves the chance to stand tall, be confident, and pursue her dreams without fear. It shouldn’t be a wish. It should be a given.