Our Co-founders
Kate Raston
Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Health Promotion
GradCert, Sexology
2024 Young Australian of the Year, State Finalist
2024 Young Citizen of the Year
She/ Her
Dedicated to empowering young individuals, Kate Raston is the Co-founder of We Are W/M, an organisation committed to delivering evidence-based relationships and sexuality education to all people. As a qualified sexologist, Kate is deeply committed to creating an environment where stigmas surrounding crucial discussions are dismantled, allowing young people to assert their power and agency.
Kate's journey from a survivor of sexual assault to the Co-founder of We Are W/M has transformed her into a vocal advocate for gender equality and the prevention of sexual violence against women. She is also a keynote speaker, addressing topics related to female rights, empowerment, and her strong belief in the preventative role of sex education in schools. Kate firmly asserts that proper sexuality and relationship education are essential rights for all young people and serve as crucial preventative measures against sexual violence.
Honoured as a WA State Finalist for Young Australian of the Year 2024, the 2024 Young Citizen of the Year and featured on prominent platforms such as 7News, Sunrise, The West Australian, The Perth Business Podcast, ABC Drive, Weekends with Andrea Gibbs, The Resource Podcast, ABC Breakfast and Afternoons and RTRFM. Kate is recognised as a significant voice in the realm of relationships and sexuality education.
Her aspiration for the future remains steadfast—to witness a generation of individuals unapologetically themselves, ready to challenge conventions and spark change through their empowered voices. Through We Are W/M and beyond, Kate is resolute in her commitment to fostering empowerment, catalysing positive transformation, and advancing the journey toward a more equitable and inclusive world.
Nicolette Beard
Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Health Promotion
Graduate Diploma, Education
2024 Young Western Australian of the Year
She/ Her
Nicolette Beard is the dynamic co-founder of We Are W/M, driven by an unwavering passion to empower and guide young female adolescents through their unique journeys. With over 6 years of experience as an adept Health Promotion Practitioner and School Teacher, Nicolette's dedication is evident in her commitment to educating and uplifting young women.
Her journey led her across borders, embarking on solo adventures in the U.S.A and Canada. Immersed in different cultures and perspectives, Nicolette discovered the potency of women uniting to uplift one another. This realisation kindled her belief in the power of collaboration and laid the foundation for her pivotal role in driving change through education.
Navigating educational landscapes, Nicolette's keen insights and intimate familiarity with curriculum dynamics unveiled a critical void. Her interactions with students exposed the absence of tailored female-centric education. Driven by a desire to break down barriers and foster open conversations around vital topics, she embarked on a mission to ignite meaningful change.
Nicolette's passion is deeply rooted in health education, specifically in the context of young women in Western Australia. Her dedication transcends the mere dissemination of knowledge; it's about sparking empowerment and igniting transformation. Her goal extends far beyond the individual, aiming to create a ripple effect that brings about positive change.
Featured on prominent platforms such as The Perth Business Podcast, ABC Drive, Weekends with Andrea Gibbs, The Resource Podcast, ABC Breakfast and Afternoons, RTRFM, and The West Australian, Nicolette work has not gone unrecognised.
Her journey is one of authenticity, of challenging conventions, and of leveraging education as a transformative force. Through her pivotal role in We Are W/M and beyond, Nicolette illuminates a path for the women of tomorrow, guiding them towards self-discovery, empowerment, and lasting impact.