The Andrews Labor Government is empowering young women to become influential leaders in their workplaces and communities.

Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins today announced the 21 successful scholarship recipients for the inaugural Joan Kirner Young and Emerging Women’s Leadership Program.

The program honours the legacy of Victoria’s first and only female premier the late Joan Kirner AC, who was passionate about promoting women and dedicated her career to mentoring young people.

This new program, developed in partnership with Leadership Victoria, will give up-and-coming female leaders the skills, networks and experiences required to advance their leadership careers.

Twenty-one exceptional women from across Victoria were offered scholarships from over 250 applications, empowering them to become influential leaders in their communities, sectors and areas of interest.

Some of the scholarship recipients include:

• Dr Jaclyn Broadbent – a Senior Lecturer in Psychology with Deakin University, she has numerous achievements in retaining students and helping them through their learning journey.
• Ms Sarah Sheridan – the Health Promotion Coordinator for the Victorian Aboriginal Health Services. Ms Sheridan has worked on the Aboriginal health and well-being program #HerTribe.
• Ms Morgan Cataldo – a Policy and Strategic Projects Officer at Melbourne City Mission, leading a leadership development program for young people from marginalised backgrounds.
• Miss Amna Iqbal – an Education Marketing Coordinator at the Islamic Museum of Australia (IMA). Miss Iqbal is also the Committee Chair of the IMA University Ambassadors committee.
• Ms Stephanie Lau – the Sustainability Officer for both the Bayside City Council and Austin Health. Ms Lau has worked for a number of environmental organisations.

For more information on the program, visit vic.gov.au/women.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins

“This extraordinary program allows up-and-coming female leaders to develop their skills and abilities to become inspirational leaders.”

“Building and supporting the development of leadership skills in Victorian women builds our work across Government to promote gender equity, including gender equality on government boards.”

Quotes attributable to Leadership Victoria Chief Executive Richard Dent OAM

“Leadership Victoria welcomes this initiative to empower the next generation of female leaders. We are delighted to partner with the Victorian Government to provide pathways to encourage and promote women’s leadership.”