Sarah De Jonge is the heart and hands behind 1000 Hearts, a kindness movement that began in 2016 with a simple yet profound idea, sewing and sharing tiny handmade pure woollen hearts as tokens of love, hope, and comfort. Based in Kingston, Tasmania, Sarah has a background in psychology and counselling, with years of experience in the non-profit sector supporting people through life’s toughest moments.
1000 Hearts started as a personal project, with Sarah hand-stitching a thousand pocket-sized hearts to give away as random acts of kindness. What began as a heartfelt gesture soon grew into a global movement, embraced by schools, hospitals, community groups, and individuals seeking a way to spread compassion in times of grief, trauma, illness, or uncertainty.
Sarah’s work is deeply personal. Her own experiences of loss, resilience, and healing have shaped her belief that small acts of kindness can create meaningful change. She has seen firsthand how carrying a simple heart can offer solace to those facing challenges, from anxiety and depression to natural disasters and global crises. At its core, 1000 Hearts is about human connection, bringing people together through creativity, community, and the shared belief that kindness has the power to heal. Each heart is an opportunity for mindfulness, a symbol of love, and a reminder that no one is alone.
Watch Sarah’s Story Here