Unless you’ve experienced it yourself, no one can quite understand the emotional trauma associated with domestic violence.
With diminished confidence and an overall lack of self-worth, it is not uncommon for victims to return to a toxic relationship, even after escaping.
Domestic violence is the primary cause of homelessness for women and their children, with lack of financial independence said to be the leading cause for why they feel they can’t leave.
One western Sydney woman is trying to change that.
The Zen Tea Lounge Foundation assists women across Parramatta and Cumberland to regain the confidence they need to rebuild their lives after escaping a domestically violent relationship.
From personal development programs that use yoga and Qigong to work-readiness programs, self defence classes, workshops and retreats, each activity aims to equip women to grow a mindset of strength and resilience.
The physical Zen Tea Lounge in Smithfield operates as a cafe front where the women can work, gain support and meet like-minded individuals.
“We take it further than the usual support of emergency shelter by providing them with the skills and confidence to gain financial independence to prevent them from going back to these situations,” Founder Amy Nguyen said.
The Zen Tea Foundation has a large focus on refugees and multicultural women, particular from south-east Asian, Cambodien and African backgrounds.
Ms Nguyen said culture can play a difficult role when it comes to women recognising domestic violence.
“They don’t realise it’s not OK,’ she said.
“They think it’s just the Australian system and they think it’s not OK but it’s culturally acceptable in their own country so they accept it.
“Our purpose is to allow them to realise they have a choice and rights and freedom in this country.”
Since its inception, Zen Tea Lounge has helped over 18,000 women with their mindfulness workshop and has seen 36 women gain financial independence through their job-ready program.
Ms Nguyen said they were inundated with calls for help following COVID-19 isolation.
This year they are striving to help 18,000 more women and children with the goal to find a piece of land to build a safe haven for victims of violence.
“We have a dream where our sister and brother can feel safe and be at peace and that’s why we’re doing what we’re doing,” she said.
Troy Dodds is Parra News' Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.