HOST/SPEAKER

Artist. Actor. Advocate. Storyteller

Madeleine West is multi-talented with a career that spans 35 years in television, theatre, and beyond. Recognized for her role as Dee Bliss on Neighbours (2000–2003, 2017–2020), Madeleine has brought over 45 characters to life on screen, captivating audiences with her versatility and charm.

Off the stage, Madeleine is a passionate advocate for causes close to her heart. She’s a champion for the environment, a dedicated voice in the homelessness sector, and the principal ambassador for the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC). She has also undertaken key advocacy and educator roles for Warriors Advocacy, Safe on Social and the National Office of Child Safety.

In addition to acting, Madeleine’s creative pursuits include being a published author, columnist, and performer in improvised theatre and stand-up comedy. She’s also made waves in the podcasting world, hosting hit series like PREDATORY (Newscorp/True Crime), RESTART (Mamamia), and INVISIBLE HEROES (Nova), where her authenticity and insight shine. Madeleine has recently joined Broad Radio a brand new radio network for women.

As a mother of six, Madeleine knows the art of keeping things running smoothly while keeping it real. At the Evolve: Life Reimagined Summit, she’ll not only guide us through the day as our lively and engaging MC but also share her personal story and her candid reflections on being a woman navigating the ever-changing tides of midlife.

With humor, heart, and a deep understanding of life’s challenges, Madeleine will remind us all that midlife isn’t the end of the story—it’s just the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

HOST/SPEAKER

Photographer. Author. Dreamer.

Gray Tham has dedicated this chapter of her life to celebrating and showcasing the strength, beauty, and wisdom of women. Through her lens, she captures more than just images—she tells stories that empower, inspire, and illuminate the unique essence of every woman she photographs.

A true believer in the power of storytelling, Gray champions the idea that every story matters and deserves to be shared. Her mission is to help women step into their light, embrace their boldness, and shine unapologetically.

Gray will inspire us all to honour our own journeys and recognise the beauty of living boldly at every stage of life.

SPEAKER

Visionary. Storyteller. Mentor. Speaker. Entrepreneur.

Mariam Issa wears many hats, each reflecting her incredible journey and unwavering passion for empowering others. While there are countless ways to describe her work, one word has defined every step of her path: resilience.

A masterful storyteller and a beacon of strength, Mariam draws on her life experiences to inspire transformation and growth. Through her words and wisdom, she encourages us to embrace challenges as opportunities and to reimagine what’s possible in the next phase of our lives.

Mariam will set the tone for our day, guiding us to cultivate intention, resilience, and purpose as we step into our futures.

SPEAKER
Muma, Wife, Self-Confessed Survivor Fan

Caroline Courtis is 57 but embraces life with the energy and enthusiasm of a 27-year-old. With over 30 years of experience in Nursing and Midwifery, she finds it a privilege to support women during their most vulnerable moments and is passionately dedicated to advocating for women and children.

Caroline’s career journey has been as diverse. She started as a travel consultant in her early 20s before transitioning into Midwifery through nursing. Along the way, she worked on TV and film sets and was featured in a National Geographic documentary celebrating midwives around the world.

Born and raised in country Victoria, Caroline has lived in Melbourne and other states but now calls Northern NSW home. Following the loss of her mum, she sought peace and sunshine and has embraced this new chapter with open arms.

In 2024, at age 55, Caroline achieved a lifelong dream by competing on Australian Survivor Series 9, where she finished as runner-up. Her journey is a testament to resilience and determination.

Caroline is living proof that it’s never too late to reimagine your life. Through her story, she inspires others to embrace challenges, discover their inner strength, and believe in their limitless potential.

Endocrinologist | MBBS, FRACP, PhD

Dr. Sonia Davison is a renowned Endocrinologist with over 20 years of experience specializing in women’s health. Her dedication to advancing knowledge and care in this field has made her a trusted expert and a passionate advocate for women navigating hormonal health and midlife transitions.

Sonia is a Clinical Fellow at Jean Hailes for Women’s Health and has contributed extensively to the Women’s Health Research Program at Monash University. In private practice, she sees patients at the Melbourne Endocrine Clinic in Malvern and Jean Hailes for Women’s Health.

Her groundbreaking PhD and postdoctoral research explored the role of hormones in women’s health, focusing on androgens and their impact on age, mood, sexual function, and cognition. As a Past President of the Australasian Menopause Society and a Board member of the Asia Pacific Menopause Federation, Sonia continues to lead and shape the conversation around women’s health.

A prolific researcher and presenter, Sonia has published extensively, appeared on panels, and shared her expertise across conferences, podcasts, webinars, and media. She has also been featured on the TV program The Truth About Menopausealongside Myf Warhurst, helping demystify and destigmatize menopause for a wider audience.

Dr. Davison will share her deep insights into hormonal health and the midlife journey, empowering women with knowledge and tools to thrive during this transformative stage.

BEd, ATCL, Grad Dip Psych,  PhD, MAPS, GAICD

Dr. Mandy Deeks is a counselling psychologist with an extensive background in education, research and clinical care in women’s health.

Naturopath & Herbalist FNHAA M App Sci, Acupuncture, Dip App Sci, Naturopath

With over 30 years of experience, Sandra Villella is a passionate advocate for women’s health. A graduate of the Southern School of Natural Therapies (1993), she also holds a Master of Applied Science in Acupuncture.

Sandra’s thriving practice focuses on midlife health, premenstrual disorders, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Since 1999, she has been the Consultant Naturopath for Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, where she contributes to educational resources on natural therapies and holistic care. She also creates health-focused recipes for the “Jean Hailes Kitchen,” combining her love of nutrition and education.

Sandra also mentors the next generation of naturopaths as a supervisor for final-year students at Torrens University. Her commitment to integrative care and education makes her a trusted leader in her field.

Sandra will draw on her extensive experience to explore the vital role of natural therapies, nutrition and lifestyle strategies in supporting women through midlife transitions. Her insights will empower attendees to take charge of their health with practical and holistic approaches.

Fashion Stylist
Coming Soon!

Hair Stylists
Michelle is an award-winning entrepreneur and co-founder of the Hair Body & Soul Group, where her passion for hair and business has transformed hundreds of small businesses. Known for her warmth, kind nature, and infectious laughter, Michelle is a true force in the hair and business world. As an active and dedicated hairdresser, she brings a wealth of expertise to her clients, making each one feel their absolute best. With a loyal client base spanning over 29 years, Michelle’s commitment to excellence continues to set her apart in the industry, inspiring both her clients and fellow professionals to look and feel their best.

Known for her edgy, transformative looks and infectious energy, Pina is not only the QUEEN of sexy hair but also a powerhouse of inspiration. With 40 years of experience, including over 25 years co-owning a salon, Pina has mentored countless salon owners, teams, and apprentices, helping them elevate their skills in both hair and business. She brings flair to the salon, coupled with a wealth of knowledge that empowers the next generation of stylists. Her transformative work leaves clients feeling fabulous and years younger, while her energy, humor, and genuine care create a lasting impact on everyone she works with.

Michelle and Pina will share with us their tips and ticks to find the perfect style and keep looking fabulous.

Make Up Artist
Coming Soon!

QUEEN OF COLLAGEN
Cosmetic Physician. Educator. Innovator

Dr. Amanda Ong has been a leading cosmetic physician since 2004, celebrated for her technical expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and innate understanding of beauty and aesthetic balance. Widely recognized as a pioneer in the field, she has earned the title “Queen of Collagen” for her exceptional mastery of collagen stimulators, including injectables and bio-stimulating threads.

A trusted educator, Dr. Ong serves as a key trainer for Galderma, one of Australia’s largest cosmetic injectable companies. She is also the Head National Trainer for MINT threads and a trainer for Silhouette Soft® threads, specializing in facial thread lifting. Through her dynamic training sessions and seminars, she shares her advanced techniques and insights, nurturing the next generation of doctors and cosmetic injectors while elevating industry standards.

As a Fellow of the Cosmetic Physicians College of Australasia, Dr. Ong’s expertise spans a range of cosmetic treatments, including dermal fillers, collagen stimulators, anti-wrinkle injections, and double-eyelid suturing—a niche skill for creating, lifting, or correcting eye folds with precision.

At Bioscor, Dr. Ong leads a dedicated team of nurses and dermal therapists to deliver tailored, results-driven treatment plans. Her holistic approach ensures that every client enjoys a seamless, informed, and transformative journey toward achieving their aesthetic goals.

Dr Amanda Ong can’t wait to answer all your burning questions in this field.