Celebrating family diversity and connections
This year, UNSW Medicine & Health celebrated National Families Week (13-19 May) with the theme 'Family Diversity & Connections'.
Published on the 03 June 2024
The Medicine & Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee (MHEDIC) - Family Network, led by Drs Nicole Marden, Christina Byun and Danielle Tran, hosted an in-person event on 16 May in the Kirby seminar room to resonate the significance, importance and diversity of families as well as to acknowledge challenges in integrating work commitments and family caring responsibilities.
Family Network, led by Drs Nicole Marden, Christina Byun and Danielle Tran, with Prof Xiaoqi Feng (right). Photo: provided
Beginning with a welcome by our Interim Dean, Prof Adrienne Torda, and introduction by MHEDIC Chair, Prof Xiaoqi Feng, the event featured a discussion and Q & A session with a distinguished panel of five speakers from across our faculty, including Ms Josie Luis, A/Prof Jane Kohlhoff, Dr Luke Lowes, Prof Rebecca Ivers, and Ms Marianne Colbert, followed by a networking lunch.
The event was filled with warm-hearted personal stories, shared by both the speakers and the event participants, about the biggest joy of being a family member and key challenges in managing family responsibilities and work.
Distinguished panel includes Ms Josie Luis, A/Prof Jane Kohlhoff, Dr Luke Lowes, Prof Rebecca Ivers, and Ms Marianne Colbert, with Interim Dean, Professor Adrienne Torda, and MHEDIC Chair, Professor Xiaoqi Feng (both right). Photo: provided
The discussion also covered topics ranging from emotional well-being within the family and children’s health to strategies on managing family commitments and career trajectories as well as resources available. This event was proudly another successful MHEDIC activity which was warmly received by attendees, who praised it as being an opportunity to connect through sharing authentic experiences.