Meet Jon Owen
I have been Pastor and CEO of Wayside Chapel since 2018, but have devoted my life to creating a community with no ‘us and them’. A qualified social worker, I have lived and worked in some of the most disadvantaged communities in Sydney and Melbourne. I am dedicated to supporting those experiencing homelessness, addiction, and mental health issues. Prior to Wayside, I was Australian and Pacific Director of Urban Neighbourhoods of Hope, an international not-for-profit organisation, living and working in under-resourced communities. My wife and I ran an open home for people transitioning out of prison, people who slept rough and women escaping family and domestic violence. I am a regular public speaker and passionate storyteller.
My Why
As a Malaysian born, Indian/Sri Lankan immigrant I am interested in breaking down the barriers of division that sets us against each other. Creating a community of no ‘us and them’ where everyone belongs is no longer optional in our increasingly divided world. This leads to a leadership task that continues to build and grow an organisation that supports those pushed to brink. I am also interested in influencing the national conversation on topics that I am passionate about wearing both my Pastor and CEO hats. Topics include: homelessness & housing affordability crisis, drug reform, mental health, social service, domestic and family violence, justice and equity for First Nations community members.
My Accomplishments
- Husband of Lisa Owen since 1997
- Father of three gender diverse humans (All well into their 20s).
- Pastor and CEO of the iconic Sydney social services organisation, Wayside Chapel for 8 years. I lead a team of 600 volunteers and 110 staff who support not only those sleeping rough, but people with drug addiction and attendant mental health issues, domestic violence victims and undocumented community members.
- Australia and Pacific Director of Urban Neighbours of Hope (NFP specialising in community development for marginalised, low socio-economic communities).
- Having a life and career that has allowed me to have positive impact on the lives of those who are the most invisible and marginalised in the community.
Fun facts
- I proposed to my partner by presenting her with a plastic, smiley-face ring from a 40-cent machine - This year I wore my undies on the outside on Valentine’s Day as part of a unique Wayside campaign - Instead of a conventional honeymoon my wife and I volunteered at the Mother Theresa Centre at Kolkata, India
How I can help
Embedding social purpose and empathy in leadership
Building community: the workplace where everyone belongs
Supporting employees to bring their whole selves to work
Leading with compassion and love: ‘no us and them’
Encouraging storytelling, innovation, creativity and adaptability to respond to changing circumstances and emerging challenges.
Profile information supplied through Cuppa’s talent directory. Availability and suitability are confirmed on enquiry.