Zen Tea Lounge Foundation

01/09/2026

This session was about something many of us forget while supporting others - looking after ourselves matters too.

At the Beyond Silence session facilitated by Gigi Neophytou, the conversations were open, thoughtful, and grounded in everyday experiences. A friendly, chatty space where people felt comfortable sharing, reflecting, and learning from one another.

Together, the group explored ways to bring learning into everyday life and the workplace.

Trusting your instincts.
Slowing down before reacting.
Responding with more care - for ourselves and for others.

Some reflections stayed with us.

“I need to learn to care for myself and fill my own cup.”

And another:

“I need to calm myself down so that when I speak and respond I do it with thoughtful words.”

Sometimes, growth looks quiet.

Pausing before responding.
Taking better care of ourselves.
Finding small ways to show up with more patience and understanding.

Thank you to Gigi Neophytou for guiding the session with care, to everyone who contributed so openly, and to Homes NSW for supporting spaces for learning and reflection.

If this kind of space speaks to you, we warmly welcome you to join a future session with us.

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.zentealoungefoundation.org.au/

31/08/2026

Some of the most meaningful lessons in life are not taught in classrooms. They are shared around a kitchen table, passed down through generations, and offered with love.

This week, our D4S community had the privilege of learning the art of making coffee jelly, guided by the gentle hands and heartfelt wisdom of one of our participant's grandmothers.

For many of us, it was our very first time making coffee jelly from scratch. Together, we measured ingredients, stirred with care, laughed over little mistakes, and eagerly waited for the jelly to set. Every person found a way to contribute, and every shared smile made the experience even sweeter.

But this workshop became so much more than learning a new recipe.

It became a reminder that every generation has something valuable to teach. That traditions carry stories. That kindness can be shared through simple acts like preparing a meal together. And that some of life's richest moments happen when we slow down, listen, and learn from one another.

We are deeply grateful to our participant's grandmother for so generously sharing her time, knowledge, and love with our community. Her warmth created a space where everyone felt welcomed, connected, and inspired.

To everyone who joined us- thank you for bringing your curiosity, your laughter, and your open hearts. These are the moments that strengthen communities, celebrate culture, and remind us that we all have something meaningful to share.

Together, we're not just learning new skills- we're building friendships, preserving traditions, and creating memories that will stay with us long after the coffee jelly is gone.

To know more and experience the same with our community.
Visit: https://www.zentealoungefoundation.org.au/design-for-success
Email: [email protected]
Call: +61 2 8667 8666

28/08/2026

“They really felt strongly that the students need to hear it.”

That was one of the reflections that stayed with us after our Uniting Voices - Beyond Silence Workshop at Navitas Fairfield College.

The conversation went beyond understanding the different forms of domestic and family violence. Participants explored how culture, language, and the way we communicate can shape how someone feels heard - or how their experience may be unintentionally minimised.

There was plenty of discussion, role-play, sharing, and learning from real experiences.

People who didn't know each other at the beginning of the session were soon working together, exchanging ideas, and building new connections.

But perhaps the most meaningful part was recognising that this learning shouldn't stop when the workshop ends.

Participants saw how these conversations could be carried into their work, shared with students, and brought into the wider community.

Because sometimes, what someone needs isn't another person with all the answers.

They need someone who knows how to listen, communicate with care, and help them find the right support.

Thank you to Navitas Fairfield, facilitators Gigi Neophytou and Tania Burgess, the student and community volunteers, and everyone who brought their experiences and openness into the room. And thank you to NSW Department of Communities and Justice for supporting the Uniting Voices program.

If your organisation or team would like to explore future workshops, we warmly welcome you to connect with us.

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.zentealoungefoundation.org.au/

27/08/2026

Our latest Peer Circle brought together participants for a meaningful workshop on Planning Ahead. The session provided an opportunity to learn, share experiences, and discuss practical information in a supportive and welcoming environment.

In addition to the discussion, the group enjoyed preparing stir-fried noodles together and sharing fresh fruits brought by participants. These simple moments of connection made the morning especially enjoyable and reminded us that community is built through friendship, kindness, and time spent together.

As part of our gatherings, we also take time for a little movement and gentle exercise after sitting for a while. These short activity breaks help everyone stretch, refresh, and bring more energy and enjoyment to the day.

A special thank you to Speaker Kim for generously sharing knowledge and insights with the group.

We look forward to seeing both familiar and new faces at future workshops.

26/08/2026

Trong buổi sinh hoạt vừa qua, các cô đã có cơ hội tìm hiểu thêm về hệ thống y tế tại Úc. Tuy nhiên, giá trị thực sự của buổi gặp mặt không chỉ dừng lại ở việc chia sẻ thông tin và kiến thức.

Các cô đã tích cực tham gia thảo luận, đặt ra nhiều câu hỏi sâu sắc và cùng học hỏi từ những trải nghiệm thực tế của nhau. Điều này cho thấy sức mạnh của mô hình học tập đồng đẳng, khi mỗi người vừa là người học, vừa có thể chia sẻ những kinh nghiệm quý giá của chính mình với cộng đồng.

Điểm nhấn đáng nhớ của buổi sinh hoạt là tinh thần đồng hành và hỗ trợ lẫn nhau của các cô. Một nhóm tham gia đã cùng chuẩn bị và chia sẻ món mì xào thơm ngon cho mọi người. Những đóng góp giản dị nhưng đầy ý nghĩa ấy đã góp phần tạo nên sự gắn kết và cảm giác thuộc về một cộng đồng thân thiện, ấm áp.

Thông qua việc cùng nhau học hỏi, trao đổi trong sự tôn trọng và phát huy vai trò dẫn dắt từ chính cộng đồng, những người tham gia đã có thêm sự tự tin, mở rộng các mối quan hệ xã hội và hiểu rõ hơn về những nguồn lực, dịch vụ hỗ trợ đang sẵn có cho mình.

🌱 Trong cuộc sống bận rộn ngày nay, việc dành thời gian để kết nối với bản thân và với những người xung quanh là một hành động chăm sóc đầy ý nghĩa. Những khoảnh khắc như thế này nhắc nhở rằng sự kết nối chân thành, việc học hỏi lẫn nhau và một cộng đồng luôn nâng đỡ có thể tạo nên những tác động tích cực và lâu dài.

Nếu những giá trị này tạo được sự đồng cảm, mời các cô cùng tham gia các vòng tròn kết nối trong tương lai để cùng trải nghiệm sức mạnh của cộng đồng, sự kết nối và hành trình phát triển cùng nhau:
https://events.humanitix.com/vietnamese-women-s-circle

Xin chân thành cảm ơn cô Trang từ Multicultural Health Service đã dẫn dắt buổi chia sẻ và góp phần tạo nên một không gian nơi việc học hỏi, kết nối và xây dựng cộng đồng có thể cùng phát triển.

----

While we learned more about Health System in Australia, the true impact of the session went beyond information sharing. Participants actively engaged, asked thoughtful questions, and learned from one another's experiences, demonstrating the power of peer leadership and community learning.

A highlight of the workshop was the teamwork shown by our participants, with one group preparing and sharing a delicious stir-fried noodle meal for everyone. These simple acts of contribution helped create a sense of connection and community.

Through collective learning, respectful dialogue, and community-led leadership, participants strengthened their confidence, built social connections, and gained a deeper understanding of the resources available to them.

In a busy world, taking time to connect with ourselves and one another can be a powerful act of care. Moments like these remind us that meaningful connections, shared learning, and a supportive community can make a real difference.

If this resonates with you, we warmly invite you to join us at a future circle and experience the power of community, connection, and shared growth https://events.humanitix.com/vietnamese-women-s-circle

A big thank you to Ms Trang from Multicultural Health Service for leading the session and helping create an environment where learning, connection, and community could thrive together.

24/08/2026

For many parents and carers, there is a quiet question that never fully leaves:

“Will my child have the skills, confidence and opportunities to become employable, more independent and able to build a meaningful life?”

These concerns are real. Many families worry about what the future may hold, who will provide support, and whether their loved one will be recognised for their abilities rather than defined by their disability.

That is why activities like preparing homemade burgers mean so much more than simply learning to cook.

From the kitchen to the final plate, every step required patience, focus and care. Our Design for Success participants practised following instructions, preparing ingredients safely, working as a team, managing responsibilities and completing a task they could feel proud of.

These are everyday skills, but they are also employability skills. Each experience helps build greater confidence, self-belief, independence and readiness for future work opportunities.

We celebrate every participant who continues to learn, contribute and show what is possible when they are given the right support and a genuine opportunity.

But inclusion cannot happen through programs alone. We need employers, businesses and community members who are willing to see ability, offer patient guidance and open doors to meaningful participation.

If you are a parent looking for support, an employer willing to provide an opportunity, or someone who would like to volunteer or stand alongside our community, please reach out. We would genuinely welcome a conversation.

🌿 www.zentealoungefoundation.org.au/design-for-success
📧 [email protected]
📞 (02) 8667 8666

Let us build a future where every person has the opportunity to learn, work, contribute and live with greater independence and dignity.

22/08/2026

At our Vietnamese Vượt Qua Sự Im Lặng - Beyond the Silence workshop, facilitated by Hana Tran, we came together to explore the quiet ways emotions can be carried, especially within multicultural communities.

The conversations were thoughtful and honest.

Learning to recognise our feelings.
Making time for self-care.
Exploring cultural beliefs around emotions and healing.
Listening to one another with care and without judgement.

As the session unfolded, the room became more open. People began sharing their experiences, reflecting together, and discovering that they were not alone.

One participant shared a reflection that captured the heart of the workshop:

“I didn’t realise that being silent was stopping me from healing and confidence; now I feel I can start expressing myself safely and confidently to share with everyone.”

It was a reminder that healing does not always begin with having the right words. Sometimes, it begins with having a space where you feel safe enough to speak.

Thank you to Hana Tran for facilitating the session with such care, and to every participant, volunteer, and helper who helped create a welcoming and supportive space.

If you're looking for a community where you can learn, connect, and simply be yourself, we warmly welcome you to join one of our future circles.

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.zentealoungefoundation.org.au/

21/08/2026

Who do you think is the best at slicing a cake: Ana, Natashia, Sergei, or Amy?

The verdict is still out, but one thing is certain: Zen Tea is always filled with activities, laughter, and sweet moments together.

Behind many of these moments is our D4S Team, growing friendships, building confidence, and strengthening community one activity at a time.

Just like cake, it's not only about the treat itself, it's about bringing people closer, sharing joy, and creating memories along the way.

To know more and experience the same with our community.

Visit: https://www.zentealoungefoundation.org.au/design-for-success
Email: [email protected]
Call: +61 2 8667 8666

20/08/2026

Ways to help future health professionals learn 💚

Olivia has found a job that brings together three things she loves – acting, speaking up and helping people learn.

She works as a role-play actor at the 's Simulation Lab. Olivia acts out different scenarios so occupational therapy students can practise their communication and clinical skills before going on placement.

She also gives guest lectures, sharing her own experiences and helping future health professionals learn directly from someone with lived experience.

The opportunity came through Down Syndrome NSW Employment Connections program. Olivia received support to update her resume, practise for her interview and prepare for her guest lecture.

“That made me feel more confident and ready for the interview,” Olivia says.

Now she's doing work she really enjoys while helping students become better health professionals.

“I love acting, and I love speaking up and sharing my experiences. I also like seeing the different perspectives that the students have and helping them learn.”

It's a wonderful example of what can happen when people have the opportunity to use their strengths and get the right support at work.

If you or someone in your family is looking for work, visit the Right to Work website for employment information, resources and support: https://buff.ly/9NShZWR

20/08/2026

Our lovely sister, Kham will be hosting the Origami section for Council at this year’s Cherry Blossom Festival 🌸✨

If you’re there, please do drop by, say hi and show her some love and support. So proud of you, Kham! 💕
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Sn1SzCuXr/?mibextid=wwXIfr