CEO Sleepout

I've signed up to be the Ambassador of CEO Cleepout 2025

As someone who experienced homelessness firsthand, being an ambassador for the 2025 Vinnies CEO Sleepout is deeply personal to me. When I was sleeping rough as a teenager, I didn’t know support programs like this existed. That’s why I’m committed to using my story to raise awareness about hidden homelessness and help break down the shame that often surrounds it. Homelessness can affect anyone - a colleague, a friend, a family member - and too often, people suffer in silence. Through this event, I want to start conversations and ensure more people know help is out there.

My journey hasn’t been an easy one. At 15, I found myself without a stable home, and for a time I was sleeping on floors or crashing with friends. I faced difficult family situations, left school early, and made choices I’m not proud of - but I also worked hard, found the right people to support me, and eventually built a career that led me to becoming CEO of ALLBIDS by age 30. I skipped a lot of what it means to be a teenager because I had to survive. Now, I’m fortunate to be in a position where I can give back and help others find their footing like I did.

To fellow business leaders: this isn’t just about sleeping outside for one night. It’s about standing together to show we care, and to take real action for people who have nowhere else to turn. If you’re not sleeping out but still want to support, I’m using our ALLBIDS.com.au platform to fundraise, with 100% of proceeds from donated goods going directly to the cause. Every dollar helps provide a warm bed, a hot meal, and the hope of a fresh start. If you’d like to donate or get involved, reach out to me at ben@allbids.com.au - I’d love your support.