Kishore Pokala

One night isn't a lot, but it can make a whole lot of difference

Every night, thousands of Australians experience homelessness. But it doesn't have to be that way. This year I'm taking part in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout to raise money for the St Vincent de Paul Society to support Australians in need. For one night, I will be stepping away from the comfort and security many of us take for granted. While it’s only a brief glimpse, it serves as a powerful reminder of the daily reality for thousands of Australians who don’t have a safe place to call home.

This experience is about more than raising funds it’s about building empathy, challenging my own perspective, and recognising the responsibility we have, as individuals and as business leaders, to give back in meaningful ways. True leadership isn’t only measured by business success, but by the impact we create beyond it.

By stepping outside my comfort zone, I hope to contribute, even in a small way, to driving awareness, supporting vital services, and helping create a future where everyone has access to dignity, safety, and opportunity.

I’m reaching out to ask for your support. Any contribution, big or small, will go directly towards providing essential services, shelter, and hope to those who need it most. Your generosity can make a real difference.

Together, we can step beyond our comfort zones and help create a future where everyone has access to dignity, safety, and opportunity.