After escaping her own abusive relationship, Tomeeka Smith found herself driven by a desire to help others who didn’t have the same support network she did.
Her personal experience, combined with the tragedy of losing a close friend to domestic violence, fuelled her mission to create Defenders for Hope, an organisation dedicated to supporting women and families in crisis.
For Tomeeka, the journey is deeply personal.
Having lived in Jimboomba since she was a year old, she’s always felt a strong connection to her community.
“I didn’t see the signs of domestic violence at first,” Tomeeka said.
“I was fortunate to have a strong network to help me leave, but I know not every woman has that. That’s why we’re here—to be the support they need before, during, and after.”
On 22 February 2021, 49-year-old Doreen Langham was tragically killed by her former partner after he set her townhouse in Browns Plains alight.
The murder-suicide was the devastating result of over a year of coercive control, stalking, and violence.
In the wake of this tragedy, Tomeeka, along with her sister Tina and sister-in-law Elise, decided they had to act.
“We had always been in the community helping with some volunteering, but this was probably the push to do something bigger,” Tomeeka said.
“There had already been five women killed from domestic violence that year, and it was too much for us not to do something.”
In June 2021, Tomeeka and her family co-founded Defenders for Hope, starting with their first op shop in Logan Village.
The shop’s proceeds went directly to funding programs that support domestic violence victims.
Beyond raising funds, they sought to spark conversations about domestic violence, break the silence surrounding it, and empower survivors through tangible support.
“Our op shops offer a place to have informal conversations with our volunteers, many of whom have been through domestic violence themselves,” Tomeeka said.
“We’ve had women come in after 15 years of marriage and realise through conversations with us that they’ve been living with domestic violence.
That’s when we step in to guide them to safety and resources.”
Since its inception, Defenders for Hope has expanded significantly, opening additional op shops in Jimboomba, Hillcrest, and Beaudesert.
The organisation has also evolved to address broader community needs.
Women and children escaping domestic violence, as well as individuals experiencing homelessness, can access showers, washing machines, and essential items at some of their locations.
Programs like the Defenders Soul Kitchen provide home-cooked meals to those in need, often through a pay-it-forward system that ensures no one goes hungry.
“We’ve naturally expanded to help those who are homeless, including women leaving domestic violence situations with nothing,” Tomeeka said.
“It’s about meeting people where they’re at and providing what they need, whether that’s a meal, a shower, or just someone to talk to.”
The organisation’s success is deeply tied to Tomeeka’s tireless efforts and personal touch.
Whether it’s organising events such as the Defenders Ball or the Defenders Afternoon Tea, overseeing daily operations, or providing a listening ear to those in need, she’s always hands-on.
“We’re not government-funded, everything we do is from community contributions or local businesses,” Tomeeka said.
“My mum and I run the business, and we’re always on the ground, ensuring we’re a point of contact for anyone who needs us.”
Balancing the demands of running the organisation with being a foster mum to four children is no small feat, but Tomeeka takes it all in stride.
“It’s hard work, but this is much bigger than me,” she said.
“I’m always thinking about the business, how to grow, how to help more people.
But I have a supportive partner, and I love what I do. Helping people is the most rewarding experience.”
The impact of Defenders for Hope extends far beyond the immediate support they provide.
By aligning prevention and intervention strategies with community engagement, they are driving social change and advocating for a future where domestic violence is no longer tolerated.
For Tomeeka and her team, the mission is to create a safe and welcoming space for everyone.
“I love all the people I get to meet and help,” Tomeeka said.
“It’s an incredible journey, and we hope to grow bigger each year so we can help even more people.”