Kate Raston

Kate Raston, a survivor of intimate partner sexual violence and a sexologist by trade, has transformed her personal trauma into a powerful force for change. Co-founder of We Are W/M, an organisation dedicated to fostering consent education and dismantling toxic masculinity, Kate's work has touched over 20,000 lives across Western Australia. 

Recognised as the 2024 Young Citizen of the Year and a 2024 State Finalist for Young Australian of the Year, Kate exemplifies resilience, advocacy, and leadership.

With an unwavering dedication to gender equality and the prevention of violence against women, Kate’s work has led to groundbreaking changes. Her collaboration with journalist Caitlyn Rintoul uncovered systemic sexual misconduct within the WA Police, prompting public accountability and systemic reform. Kate also spearheaded a survey that exposed toxic sexualised cultures in Australian private boys' schools, amplifying the urgent need for improved sex education.

Kate's vision is bold and transformative: a world where no young woman feels silenced, unheard, or alone in her struggles. She dreams of a future where women are believed, empowered, and safe, and where young men are not only allies but active participants in dismantling the cultural norms that perpetuate violence. Through education, advocacy, and systemic reform, Kate envisions a society that prioritises respect, inclusivity, and equality for all.

Kate’s voice resonates powerfully on national and international stages, having spoken at the 25th IUSTI World Congress, Australasian Sexual and Reproductive Health Conference, Global Entrepreneurship Congress, and the 26th Congress of the World Association for Sexual Health and was the Keynote at the Seventh Annual Women’s Health Symposium, the Mental Health in Hospitality Summit 2024 and delivered a powerful speech at the No More Rally where she addressed over 3,000 people. Her contributions to these events have influenced global discussions on sexual health education and prevention. Her expertise have been featured on 7News, Sunrise, The West Australian, ABC, RTRFM, and more, solidifying her as a trusted voice in advocacy and education.

We Are W/M, recognised as one of WA's top female-founded organisations in 2023, offers evidence-based, trauma-informed programs addressing consent, healthy relationships, and online safety. With her co-founder Nicolette Beard, Kate’s initiatives not only empower young women to know their voices matter but also challenge young men to become allies in dismantling harmful societal norms.

Kate’s achievements extend beyond advocacy. Her dedication to fostering safer workplaces, influencing policy reforms, and mentoring others underscores her transformative impact. While a dynamic speaker in her own right, Kate is most compelling when presenting alongside Nicolette Beard, her co-founder and friend of over 10 years. Their deep bond and shared passion create an undeniable synergy, making their presentations not only impactful but also more engaging and enjoyable for audiences. 

Kate Raston’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose. Her ability to transform adversity into advocacy continues to inspire communities, empower individuals, and redefine what it means to create a safer, more inclusive world.