The Alphington Grammar School community gathered last Sunday to celebrate Mother’s Day with what ended up being a sell-out high tea to raise funds for the Butterfly Foundation.
The school’s trademark event was hosted in the Andrianakos Centre, which was abuzz with 250 guests who shared a scrumptious afternoon tea, accompanied by champagne and barista-served coffee.
Consul General of Greece in Melbourne Christina Simantraki officially opened the event in the presence of executive members of the GOCMV, dignitaries, media and other special guests.
In the spirit of the day, body image speaker Taryn Brumfitt gave a presentation and shared her message on the importance of redefining one’s own ideals of body image; a notion that was seconded by principal Dr Vivianne Nikou.
“In a world where the media has become a strong voice in our heads it has become easier for girls, boys, women and men to develop a warped sense of body image,” she said.
“School counsellors are dealing with rising numbers of young people who present with negative body image, which affects every part of their development. Negativity they can take into adult life.”
The money raised will assist the Australian charity in providing support for those who are suffering from eating disorders and their carers.
“The Alphington Grammar School community understands the importance of demonstrating to the next generation that a strong social conscience and speaking about difficult and sensitive topics is important,” said Dr Nikou.
At the time of publication, a final figure of the funds raised had yet to be reached.