Rosie Batty is the epitome of the ‘accidental leader’. When her 11-year-old son Luke tragically lost his life at the hands of his father, Rosie became a tireless and inspirational crusader against domestic violence, turning her personal tragedy into a fight to help others. Now, Rosie will host a special eight-part series of One Plus One on ABC TV, speaking with other accidental leaders who have unexpectedly forged new paths inspiring others.
Rosie’s story is well known, with her courageous campaigning against domestic violence earning her the title of Australian of the Year, as well as the Pride of Australia National Courage medal and Order of Australia honours. Her relentless dedication has also seen her inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women and named by Fortune Magazine as one of the world’s top 50 greatest leaders.
Rosie’s journey from abuse victim to high-profile leader, along with her empathetic and engaging speaking style, makes her a captivating motivational speaker. It also makes her the perfect person to host the upcoming series of the popular ABC NEWS interview program.
“With the death of my son Luke I never set out to be so widely known in Australia and I realised that my story has been an inspiration for others,” says Rosie. “Mine is just one story and there are so many other inspiring and courageous people who never sought the limelight or to have a public profile. I wanted to hear more about their stories and what impact it’s had on their lives – the good and the bad.”
Rosie will interview accidental leaders from a variety of fields in the forthcoming series of One Plus One, including self-deprecating comedian Hannah Gadsby, Dr. Richard Harris, known for his heroic involvement in the Thai Cave rescue, writer and artist Amani Haydar, cook and food writer Stephanie Alexander, performer and domestic violence campaigner Russell Vickery, gun control advocate Walter Mikac, plus more.
Annie White, Editor of ABC NEWS channel Programs, says of their new host, “We are very honoured to have Rosie join the One Plus One family – she has all the skills of a great interviewer, with empathy and curiosity in spades. Her conversations with others who found themselves in unexpected leadership roles bring new insight and understanding.”
We look forward to tuning in to ABC on Thursday February 24 to watch Rosie’s TV hosting debut, and learning more about the fascinating accidental leaders who have risen to prominence in the most surprising of ways.
If you’d like to engage Rosie Batty to share her inspirational journey to accidental leadership with your team, get in touch with us for a chat. We also have many more trailblazing women we can introduce you to, all with incredible stories to tell – perfect for your International Women’s Day 2022 event if you’re yet to secure a speaker!
On 8th March 2022, we celebrate 
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