This year’s event featured Dame Theresa Gattung as our guest speaker. Known for her leadership as Telecom’s former CEO, Dame Theresa shared thoughtful insights on life, purpose, and courage, reminding everyone that “regrets in life are often what you didn’t have the courage to do.” Her reflections offered plenty of food for thought.

The evening also included a special appearance by Venessa Joyce (Harington 2021-2023), a past Futures Fund recipient, who attended with her mother, Janine. A video played of Venessa expressing her gratitude for the Futures Fund that made her St Paul’s education possible moved many in the audience. Both Venessa and her mother joined MC Megan Smith on stage, where Megan invited guests to support the Futures Fund and help provide the same opportunity to other young women. The response was impressive, with $6,631 raised by the end of the night. Megan's appeal for the Futures Fund was also backed by an impromptu speech by parent Lisa McKay, who highlighted the essential role of philanthropy, and the spirit of giving that defines the St Paul’s community.

Plans are already in motion for next year’s Bubbles After 5 event on 13 November 2025, be sure to save the date. 

View Venessa's video here.