Ofa Fitzgibbons

Meet Ofa Fitzgibbons, pronounced like ‘offer’…and here’s her little story of why she wanted to go on this journey and support a great cause 😊

From Ofa: “We all know it – cancer sucks. I’ve many family members and friends that have been impacted by cancer but the one that’s closest to home is my Mum. She had breast cancer twice, and sadly passed away in 2020. I miss her every day. She was a kind, strong, resilient and loving woman and she’s my inspiration for participating in Stars of Newcastle.”

Ofa is passionate about connection and community, and the idea of spreading love and kindness to make the world a better place. Helping to raise awareness and funds for cancer research and support is just one small but positive thing she can do to help make this happen.

She’s fortunate she gets to see first-hand the impact scientific research has on the lives of everyday people through her work at the CSIRO, Australia’s National Science Agency. When she’s not supporting scientists, she sits on the board for the Newcastle Writers Festival and also dabbles in social justice advocacy through Women of Colour Australia.

Even though she was born in Aotearoa, she moved to Awabakal Country as a baby so considers herself local and loves being so close to the ocean. In her spare time, you’ll often find her hanging out at the beach with her family, walking her pups around town, or checking out a new café.

She’s nervously excited to be on this dance journey and look forward to giving back in a way that will make her Mum proud. “Thanks in advance for your support and for being here with me.”