Stories that Stir® is delighted to be joining forces with Cuppa Co-Lab to bring you a special event designed to break down barriers, stir conversation and inspire positive change.
Come and listen to six Cuppa Collective storytellers as they each share 10-minute raw and personal stories linked to the theme BELONGING, in all its shapes and forms.
When: 26 Mar 2026 | 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Where: Cuppa Co-Lab
International Towers community offer:
Enjoy 10% off your ticket by entering the code International Towers at checkout. The discount will be applied instantly when booking.
We’re also pleased to offer 15 complimentary tickets for our community, available on a first-come, first-served basis. To claim a complimentary ticket, book through Amica.
Hosted at Cuppa Co-Lab, Cuppa TV’s purpose-built home in Barangaroo, this space was created to bring people together for meaningful conversation and genuine collaboration — where leaders, creators and teams don’t just meet, but connect and reflect.
Tickets include a delicious grazing table before the storytelling begins.
Food allergies are catered for.
Meet your storytellers
Bearing Witness – Peter Baines
After the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, Baines led international operations identifying 5,395 victims. During this time in Thailand, a pivotal moment led him to found Hands Across the Water, a charity supporting children who lost their parents in the disaster.
Pho-Real – Naomi Cao
Arriving in Australia as a four-year-old Vietnamese refugee, Naomi quickly learned to adapt in a culture where even her name was difficult for others to pronounce. Years later she changed it to fit in — only to discover belonging isn’t that simple.
Lost Belonging – Adam Axford
Adam shares the story of a Southeast Asian village where he once felt more at home than anywhere else. Through storytelling and spoken word, he reflects on consequence, exile and identity when a place you love no longer welcomes you back.
Spared – Alfred Chidembo
Born during Zimbabwe’s liberation war after his mother risked everything on a dangerous journey, Alfred would later walk barefoot to school, earn a PhD in Australia and return hope to his village through education.
Home Within – Nerissa Trindade
Born in India and shaped by the silence surrounding difference, Nerissa’s search for belonging across cultures and identities ultimately led to the discovery of something deeper — a home within.
Shedding Labels – Hawanatu Bangura
From Sierra Leone to Australia, Hawanatu reflects on the labels placed on her throughout life — and the powerful realisation that belonging isn’t something you earn, but something you choose.
⚠️ Trigger warning: Stories may include sensitive topics such as trauma, suicide or death.
🔞 This is an 18+ event.