Sydney 2014 Presenters 

Marijke Rancie

With a vast background in performing arts, this married mother of three is delightful. A challenging and unusual background provided her with an interesting, lively and moving story. 

Marijke converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints when 20 years old which pivoted her life's direction and proved instrumental in helping her replace fear for faith and 'break the cycle' achieving more than she once dreamed.

Debuting as host and presenter this year, her endearing vulnerability and natural warmth show why Marijke is a sought after speaker. A passionate advocate for mental health, Marijke has recently undertaken study for her Bachelor of Psychology.  

Karina McCormack 

Karina McCormack, eternal companion to Ashley, and mother of 3 young children, lost her eldest son, Levi, only 3 days before his 10th Birthday, on Valentines Day 2014. Levi, who was born with only half a working heart, underwent 5 lifesaving open heart surgeries by age 5. Coverage by 60 Minutes, the TODAY show, and in social media, drew attention to Levi’s brief but inspiring life and his far-reaching and significant influence on many people throughout Australia and beyond. The plan of salvation and the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ give the McCormack family an eternal perspective on what has occurred bringing them a profound hope that Karina is eager to share. 

Lorin Nicholson

As one of Australia’s highest-selling independent artists, Lorin has recently released his fifth studio album titled “Strings Of Thunder”. He is also a published author of an inspirational children’s book. In 2009 Lorin was honoured as an “Australian of the Year” nominee and was later awarded a Queensland service award for his valuable contribution to the community.

Lorin’s list of achievements in music, sport, education and business are quite remarkable, however what makes his successes even more extraordinary is that he was born with Retinitis pigmentosa and has been legally blind his entire life.

Over the past decade Lorin has shared his amazing music and inspirational life experiences to more than a million people throughout Australia, New Zealand and the USA.

Beth Whaanga

Beth Whaanga is a Registered Nurse and Criminologist, with advanced qualifications in mental health, forensic mental health and criminology. Beth has a Bachelor of Nursing, a Master of Forensic Mental Health and a Master of Criminology and Criminal Justice. She is a mother of four and has been married for ten years; the Whaanga family currently resides in Brisbane. After discovering several lumps in her breast, having the BCRA2 gene mutation and a family history of breast cancer, Beth underwent total bilateral mastectomies and TRAM flap reconstructions. She decided along with friend and commercial photographer Nadia Masot to collaborate on a piece of health promotion which became known as the " Under the Red Dress Project". They hope to continue their project by sharing others' journey through cancer. 

Brenda Hopoate   

Brenda Hopoate is wife to the infamous NRL ledgend John Hopoate and mother to renowned rugby league players William and Jamil along with their 8 siblings.  Brenda’s journey as a mother and wife both in the gospel and in the public eye has been a roller coaster ride of frustration, exhilaration, heartache and immense pride. With 10 children ranging in age from 1 to 22 Brenda has her hands full but her no-nonsense approach to parenting helps to achieve precision and order in the Hopate home.  Brenda’s resilience and faith throughout her incredible journey from a wayward and rebellious young woman to an exemplary mother and wife in Zion continues to inspire all who meet her.