We need your help – vote for Susanne Ritzenhoff, Toi Ora Director, to be the St Luke’s Westfield Local Hero.
If she receives the most votes, Toi Ora will receive $20,000 to continue our vital work supporting people in mental health distress through free and professional creative programmes.
Why vote for Susanne and Toi Ora?
What makes Toi Ora so special is twofold. It is a place where people can create freely, without judgement, experiencing the many wellbeing benefits that creativity brings. Just as importantly, it is a community where people find connection, belonging and, for many, a place that feels like home.
“Many of our artists don’t have a home, in the traditional sense, and it’s a privilege for us at Toi Ora to provide that space, one we don’t take lightly,” says Susanne.
Under Susanne’s leadership, enrolment in Toi Ora’s free creative programmes has doubled. More than 500 artists now take part in visual and performing arts, creative classes and studio time.
Her approach combines strategic leadership with genuine care. Drawing on her diverse background in arts, social services and business, Susanne guided Toi Ora’s Theory of Change. This showcases an evidence-based approach that links creativity with community to support wellbeing.
Our art programmes save lives
Independent research has shown that participation in Toi Ora helps increase happiness by 52% and reduce anxiety by 48%.
An artist recently shared,“I feel like Toi Ora is my family and my home. It’s where I feel accepted for who I am.”
For Susanne, perhaps the most powerful impact is something you can see every day at Toi Ora: people finding their confidence, discovering their creativity and building connections with others.
“Knowing that this work improves wellbeing, strengthens community, and offer people a place to belong inspires me every day to contribute with purpose and compassion,” says Susanne.
Now, Toi Ora and Susanne need the support of the community.
We need your help
Westfield Local Heroes are selected through a community vote. If Susanne is named the St Lukes Westfield Local Hero, Toi Ora will receive a $20,000 grant to continue supporting people in mental health distress through creativity.
Please vote for Susanne and Toi Ora and help us provide creativity, connection and community for wellbeing.
