Andersen Studios’ Kenyon Marais joins You Matter’s Stand Up in September campaign

Melbourne-based family violence not-for-profit You Matter launched its 2025 Stand Up in September campaign last Thursday at Hotel Collingwood. Running throughout September, the initiative seeks to engage men across Melbourne in the urgent and ongoing conversation about family violence. Among the eight leaders pledging their support is Kenyon Marais (pictured above), Chief Commercial Officer of Andersen Studios, representing the creative industry alongside peers from finance, sport, real estate and more.

Keynote speaker Tarang Chawla delivered a powerful address, drawing on his lived experience following the tragic murder of his sister Nikita by her ex-boyfriend in 2015. “Men, let’s be part of the solution, not the problem,” Chawla urged, calling on those in the room to step up, speak out, and actively commit to change.

The launch also raised nearly $38,000, surpassing this year’s target of $35,000. Funds will directly support You Matter’s Havens of Hope program, which transforms empty houses into safe, welcoming homes for women and children recovering from family violence.  Each haven costs $3,000 to fully furnish with essential furniture, whitegoods, kitchen and laundry supplies, pantry basics, and personalised touches that help create a sense of comfort and belonging. With no government funding, the program is a vital lifeline helping families in Melbourne take the next steps toward recovery and rebuilding their futures.

The evening also revealed this year’s ‘Top 8’ Stand Up in September pledges – eight men representing diverse industries who will lead conversations about family violence within their sectors:

• Kenyon Marais – Andersen Studios (Creative Industry)
• Stuart Rawlins – Autopact (Automotive Industry)
• Ray Short – Bentley’s Victoria (Financial Sector)
• Brian Cook – Carlton Football Club (Sporting Industry)
• Anthony White – domo insurance (Property and Construction Insurance Industry)
• Damien Chaurémootoo – Empower Tactical (Health and Wellbeing Industry)
• Mark Parker – Lander & Rogers (Legal Sector)
• Simon Jovanovic – Marshall White (Real Estate Industry)

The campaign is strategically scheduled throughout September, a time that historically sees an increase in family violence incidents, and increased reporting as a result of football finals.

Supporters can get involved in three key ways:

1.     Make a personal pledge and share it on social media with #StandUpInSeptember.

2.     Bring the conversation into your workplace or sporting club – every discussion helps break the cycle.

3.     Donate to You Matter via https://youmatter.raisely.com/ to support essential services for women and children recovering from family violence.

“This is such a crucial time of year to stand up, speak out, and make a difference. Every action counts – pledge, talk, and give where you can,” said Deborah de Rossi, CEO of You Matter.

For more information, visit https://youmatter.org.au/