The Silent Giant: Empowering Women

A Moment of Transformation: From Struggles to Empowerment

NATIONWIDE - OCTOBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) — Amidst a backdrop of uncertainty and adversity faced by many women experiencing housing insecurity, this fellowship shines as a beacon of hope. It's more than just a program; it’s an empowering journey designed to equip women with the tools to take control of their futures. This was the moment when the lives of over a dozen women were forever changed, and their path to self-reliance and independence began to unfold.

The program represents a bold step in creating lasting change for women struggling with domestic violence, homelessness, and housing insecurity. It is a commitment to offering not just hope but the means to transform lives for the better, thanks to the visionary generosity of George Stamas and Jaqui Stamas.

A Legacy of Giving: The Genesis of the Fellowship

The George & Jaqui Maree Fellowship isn’t just a philanthropic gesture; it is a manifestation of a deep personal commitment to empowering women who are often marginalized by society. At its core, the Fellowship was designed with a profound understanding that dignity, self-care, and connection are integral to building true independence. Jaqui Stamas, a pivotal figure in shaping the fellowship, has always believed in creating spaces where women can thrive. Her guidance in ensuring that dignity is placed at the forefront of this initiative demonstrates her genuine passion for uplifting others.

For George Stamas, this Fellowship is personal. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of domestic violence and homelessness, George has always believed in the power of capacity-building as a foundation for lasting change. At the launch event, George shared his heartfelt reflections, emphasizing how crucial it is to stand beside women experiencing these challenges. His words carried weight, urging all present to take action, not just in sympathy, but in practical, meaningful ways.

It was clear that the Stamas family's vision wasn’t just to offer charity but to offer a tangible path to transformation. The George & Jaqui Maree Fellowship is a testament to that vision, a program that empowers women to write their own stories.

Confidence at the Core: Professional Outfits and Jobs for a Fresh Start

As if to punctuate the Fellowship's commitment to empowerment, George and Jaqui Stamas took another bold step: personally funding the purchase of 130 professional outfits for the women involved in the program. These outfits are not just garments; they are symbols of confidence, self-worth, and a fresh start. For many women who may have never had the opportunity to invest in professional attire, this donation is a lifeline.

For these women, preparing for a job interview or starting a new job can be a daunting task, but with the right clothes, they walk into that room feeling valued and capable. This gesture underscores the belief that empowerment is not just about skills; it’s also about self-perception. When you feel good about yourself, you’re more likely to succeed. By providing professional attire, George and Jaqui Stamas are giving these women the confidence to take on new opportunities and break free from cycles of poverty and insecurity.

Turning Point: Creating Lasting Change with Employment Opportunities

Yet, the George & Jaqui Maree Fellowship isn’t simply about inspiration, it’s about providing real, tangible outcomes. A key element of the Fellowship’s success lies in its focus on securing lasting employment opportunities for its graduates. To that end, George Stamas AM and GJK Facility Services have developed a pilot employment program that offers Fellowship graduates direct access to meaningful job opportunities.

George’s philosophy is simple but powerful: these women need more than encouragement; they need the chance to stand on their own two feet. The pilot program with GJK Facility Services is designed to do just that, offering women a stable foundation to rebuild their lives and gain long-term financial independence. George’s belief in creating opportunities rather than offering temporary solutions demonstrates his deep commitment to fostering sustainable change.

These employment opportunities are not just jobs; they are stepping stones toward a future where women can thrive independently. The partnership between the Fellowship and GJK Facility Services is a prime example of how corporate leaders can step up to break down barriers and offer real solutions for those facing housing insecurity.

A Model for Corporate Australia: Giving Back to Strengthen Communities

The launch of the George & Jaqui Maree Fellowship is not just an isolated initiative; it is part of a larger effort by GJK Facility Services to give back to communities through their 40 Acts of Kindness campaign. This campaign supports various causes, from vulnerable youth through The Lighthouse Foundation to providing funding for life-saving hospital equipment.

In his reflections, George Stamas AM emphasized that true success isn’t measured by personal achievements but by how much one gives back to others. This ethos has guided his approach to business and philanthropy for the past 40 years, and it continues to shape GJK Facility Services’ mission today. By supporting the George & Jaqui Maree Fellowship, George and his company have demonstrated that corporate success should be a vehicle for social change, not just profit.

George’s call to action for other corporate leaders across Australia is clear: step forward, support these initiatives, and help create lasting change. The corporate world has the power to break cycles of disadvantage and build a more inclusive society. The message is urgent: businesses must invest in people and communities to foster long-term social and economic change.

Join the Movement: Be Part of the Change

The George & Jaqui Maree Fellowship is a shining example of how corporate leadership can create a ripple effect of transformation. It’s a powerful reminder that when businesses invest in people, they’re not just helping individuals, they’re strengthening entire communities.

For companies and individuals eager to be part of this movement, there are many ways to get involved. Whether through direct donations, volunteering, or exploring partnership opportunities, every contribution helps build a future where women can take control of their destinies.

To learn more about the George & Jaqui Maree Fellowship and how you can contribute to this life-changing initiative, visit The Women’s Housing Company. Together, we can help rewrite the stories of women facing housing insecurity and empower them to create their own legacies of success.

Media Contacts:
Name: Media Relations
Company: GJK Facility Services
Email: procurement@gjkfacilityservices.com.au
Phone: 1800635983