Come hear 21-year old violence survivor Nicole Laurens share her incredible story of dealing with an abusive relationship in her teenage years, with little support from her social circle. She is speaking up now to encourage others to recognise abuse, even if it’s not physical, and to take a stand for themselves.

Aarti Olivia Dubey, body-positive fashion blogger at Curves Become Her, will also take the stage, speaking about her experiences, in her younger years, of extreme body shaming and about her promise to stop hating her body. “We need to celebrate our uniqueness and differences instead of aspiring to fit into cookie- cutter moulds,” says Aarti.

Vanessa Yapp will discuss cyber harassment through the stories of friends who were relentlessly slut-shamed online. Other speakers will address society’s narrow notions of masculinity as well as bullying in schools in Singapore.

Art too can play a role in addressing gender violence. SHATTER will feature performances by local artists and groups such as Shoes Theatre, presenting an interactive theatre programme challenging the idea that ‘boys will be boys’; Illi Syaznie, a singer-songwriter questioning judgement based on gender expression; and Three People, performing a skit on gender-based violence.

Attendees can engage in community art at our activity booths and learn about gender-related campaigns in Singapore, such as UN Women and SlutWalk. Come make your own t-shirt with an empowering slogan, or define gender creatively at our photo booth (comes with props)!