Your 2025 Westfield Eastgardens Local Hero is:

Ben Higgs

The Rise Foundation Australia

Compassionate. Inspiring. Powerful

Ben founded the Rise Foundation Australia, based in Maroubra, because he believes that mental health is ‘everyone’s business’.  It’s his mission to educate people about mental health and wellbeing. Through workshops and courses delivered locally, regionally and globally, he helps people to understand the signs of poor mental health, so they can better support, protect and respond to those in need. He also shares coping strategies for those who may suffer from mental health issues. 

 He says, “From our community events, fundraising and education workshops, we strive to build a positive culture around mental health.” Ben’s personal background with mental health struggles means that he can help others open up and have  raw conversations. 
“I grew up with BiPolar when it wasn’t ok to talk about having a mental illness, and we certainly weren’t educated about how best to live with mental illness,” says Ben. 

Ben is seen as a role model and mentor in the community, because by showing compassion and sharing his knowledge, he is making a difference to people’s perceptions and experiences of mental health. “Our work has and continues to help everyone in our local area. We strive to build a positive culture around mental health,” he adds. 

The $20,000 grant will be used to fund a high school program in the local area, helping teenagers understand and manage mental health. 

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We’d like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5K grant for the organisation they represent...

Eliza Needs from SOS Preschool

Eliza leads SOS Preschool in Randwick, offering inclusive, play-based education for children, including those with diverse support needs and families needing financial assistance. SOS develops strong family involvement and lasting community connections. Eliza collaborates with local professionals to support 130 children annually through the not-for-profit centre, championing accessible early education.

Karen Levin from The Equanimity Project

Karen supports women and children escaping domestic violence through her work with The Equanimity Project in Pagewood. She helps them to rebuild their lives and their confidence, by offering emotional support, empathy, and pathways to counselling and financial aid. She also mentors students on work placements and helps develop understanding, respect and awareness across the community.

If you need support, please phone Lifeline: 13 11 14

Recognising all our 2025 nominees

View all of the Westfield Eastgardens nominees and their organisations.