Hanna Ebeling - Sefa CEO

As winter settles in, we’re reminded that real impact takes time. It starts with early belief, practical backing, and the determination to tackle complex challenges at their root, not just their symptoms.

This quarter, we’re spotlighting two powerful examples of that mindset in action.

First, Wildlife Wonders: a visionary ecotourism experience in Victoria’s Otways. What began with a site loan from Sefa and two other impact investors several years back is now a thriving sanctuary where conservation, community and culture intersect: reconnecting people to nature and restoring habitats, all while generating jobs and economic activity for the region.

Then there’s Project Daffodil , a bold initiative tackling homelessness among women over 45 - not by reacting to crisis, but by preventing it. Through honest conversations about financial security, this work helps women spot the signs of risk early and take action with confidence.

We're also celebrating a special milestone internally. Renee, our Head of Impact & Engagement marks five years at Sefa. She shares reflections on how the sector has evolved, what’s surprised her most, and the moments that have cemented her “why”.

Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to be part of the Social Impact Summit . I’ll be leading a session on social entrepreneurship in the regions, a topic close to our heart. We’ll explore how place-based initiatives are driving economic, social and cultural renewal, often in the face of deep-rooted disadvantage and inequity. And it couldn’t be a better time: Sefa Partnerships’ Rural and Impact Funding Learning Community is about to kick off thoughtfully curated exchanges between social enterprises and funders to discuss the barriers that prevent regional changemakers from accessing the finance they need to unlock impact in communities.

On the home front, we’ve also been doing some introspection. Last week, our team came together for a wonderfully intimate and energising day, where we refined our Impact Narrative into a clear and bold theory of change that will help us talk about our impact with more clarity and intentionality. We’re excited to share the outcome with you soon - it has helped anchor us even more deeply to our purpose.

Lastly, we’re currently recruiting for two exciting roles: Impact & Engagement Manager and Head of Social Finance. If you know someone who’s impact-led, collaborative and excited to work at the intersection of finance and impact, send them our way. And we’re not the only ones growing – one of the amazing organisations we work with, Warrama-Li in Moree, is also hiring a Social Enterprise Operations Manager. If you know someone who’s impact-led, collaborative and excited to help purpose-driven organisations thrive, send them our way – or check out the Warrama-Li opportunity here.

Thanks for being part of the journey. I can’t wait to share what’s next (pssst, I know that there is an innovative seed getting ready to start blossoming in spring!)

Warmly,

Hanna
CEO, Sefa

Hello from our CEO - June 2025