What if the world was far kinder and more connected than headlines suggest?

Drawing on journeys through more than 150 countries, Catherine DeVrye shares remarkable stories of kindness, resilience and human connection. Whether trekking to Timbuktu, or sharing pizza with Syrian refugees in Serbia – she discovers that most individuals are kinder than their governments; that more unites us than divides us, even in often-maligned nations.

Part travel narrative, part memoir and largely a reflection on our common humanity, join Catherine as she explores the importance of travel, kindness, and the enduring connection between peoples. 

Catherine will be introduced by Hugh Mackay AO. 

Catherine DeVrye

Having started life in a Canadian orphanage, Catherine earned a master’s degree in the USA before arriving in Australia with $200, grieving the loss of both adoptive parents. A cancer survivor and former IBM executive, named Australian Executive Woman of the Year, she was honoured to carry the Olympic torch and grateful to share her message in over 30 countries.