Real Women Raw Stories returns to Christchurch this month, bringing together four powerful voices to share deeply personal experiences of loss, trauma, resilience, and healing.
The one-night-only event will be held on Friday 17 October at the McFadden Centre, with organisers promising an evening that will move, challenge, and ultimately inspire those who attend.
Organiser Moira Murphy said the concept is simple but life-changing. “Someone once described it as stories that aren’t often told but deserve to be shared, and that’s exactly what this event is about. Many people live through difficult situations, but we don’t always talk about them. When people share their stories, it can help others feel less alone and even spark healing. And if you haven’t gone through these experiences yourself, it may give you greater understanding of what someone close to you might be facing.”
This year’s line-up features four remarkable women with raw and very different journeys.
The silent struggles of a young widow
Tali Taulago Leauma lost her husband, the love of her life, in a tragic accident just days before Christmas in 2021. Soon after, she also lost her mother. Faced with complex grief, shattered dreams, and the shame of navigating life as a young and childless widow, she spiralled into darkness before slowly finding the strength to rebuild. For the first time, Tali will unveil her story publicly, speaking candidly about identity, resilience, and hope for those walking a similar unchosen path.
Making peace with sleep
Bernice Tuffery is a sleep health advocate, professional researcher, and founder of Sleep Haven. She transformed her own battle with insomnia into a mission to help others, becoming the author of the best-selling book Sleep Easy. Bernice’s talk will blend scientific insight with personal experience, offering practical tools to help people move from sleep-deprived to thriving.
Turning loss into purpose
Anna Gibbons, a mother of four and wellbeing coach, will speak about her journey following the death of her teenage son to depression in June 2024. Despite her expertise in mental health, her own devastating loss is a reminder that mental illness can impact any family. Now she has committed her life to supporting young people and their families, helping teenagers find clarity and peace in an overwhelming world.
Rising through adversity
Karen Hattaway, a Christchurch restaurateur and entrepreneur behind MANU Restaurant, will speak about her survival of childhood sexual abuse and how she transformed trauma into purpose. A certified life coach and hospitality leader, Karen has created spaces that bring people together. She will share her guiding philosophy “C.R.E.A.M” — Courage, Resilience, Empowerment, Action, Moving Forward — as a call to rise above adversity and lead with strength.
Murphy said that while the stories are raw and often heart-wrenching, the event is never about despair. “Yes, the topics can be heavy, but there is always hope, resilience, and an element of giving back. People walk away feeling inspired and better equipped to face their own challenges, or to support someone close to them with empathy and understanding.”
Hosted by Christchurch MC Debbie Hawker, Real Women Raw Stories has developed a reputation for selling out quickly.
Tickets are $40 and available through Eventbrite or via realwomenrawstories.co.nz. The event runs from 7pm to 9.30pm at the McFadden Centre on Friday 17 October.
Murphy urged Christchurch audiences not to wait. “This event always sells out, so don’t leave it to the last minute. It’s one night, four women, and an experience that will stay with you long after the evening ends.”
