Women of the Year Awards

Anastasia Bearsley

Anastasia (Anna) is a 22-year-old emerging leader and advocate for inclusion, accessibility and the arts. As Co-Chair of the Better Health Network Community Advisory Board, she amplifies lived experience in health services and champions mental health and wellbeing. She also volunteers to reduce social isolation among older residents, creating accessible pathways to arts and culture.

Ashleigh Wilson

Ashleigh is an emerging nursing leader dedicated to providing equitable and compassionate healthcare. A Registered Nurse at The Alfred, she researches homelessness and healthcare access, volunteers extensively with St John Ambulance and Street Side Medics, and has co-designed innovative nursing curricula. Her work reflects strong social justice values and leadership beyond her years.

Charlotte Lionnet

Charlotte is a dedicated volunteer leader with the Australian Air Force Cadets, contributing over 100 days of unpaid service each year. She mentors young people aged 13–18, building leadership, resilience and confidence through aviation and life-skills training. Her commitment has positively shaped the lives of more than 500 cadets.

Carol O'Halloran

Carol is the founder and presenter of Over 50, So What!, a C31 TV show supporting people transitioning into retirement. With 35 years’ experience working with older Australians, she champions wellbeing, inclusion and age positivity. At nearly 70, she continues to volunteer full-time producing and promoting the show.

Chantra Fejes

Chantra is the owner of Toast IT! Moorabbin and the driving force behind the annual “Pink It Up” fundraiser for the McGrath Foundation. Through community-led events, she brings locals and businesses together to support cancer patients and nurses. Her leadership has created a much-loved annual tradition in Moorabbin.

Emma Howey

Emma is the Director of Chelsea Occasional Childcare, where her leadership saved the centre from closure and transformed it into a thriving learning community. She champions creativity, sustainability and strong family partnerships. Under her guidance, the centre fosters belonging, curiosity and growth for every child.

Emmy Heikamp

Emmy is the co-founder of Dutch Cargo Bike, championing sustainable, car-free transport for Australian families. Through innovative business models and community initiatives, she has helped thousands replace car trips with bike trips. Her work promotes healthier communities and a circular approach to mobility.

Gabriela Ammendola

Gabriela is the Founder and Director of GA Industrial and a respected leader in a male-dominated industry. An immigrant entrepreneur, she combines business success with deep community service through major charity events, domestic violence support and mentoring migrant women. Her leadership is defined by courage, generosity and impact.

Hannah Daniels

Hannah is the founder of Hannah’s Haven, a Kingston-based cat rescue that has rehomed and desexed over 1,000 cats in four years. She dedicates countless volunteer hours to animal welfare, education and rescue. Despite personal health challenges, her compassion and commitment never waver.

Kathy Berry

Kathy is a long-serving volunteer with St John Ambulance Kingston Division. Alongside her career as a registered nurse, she dedicates hundreds of hours each year to community first aid and volunteer leadership. Her calm, compassionate presence strengthens community safety.

Marina Kyriakou

Marina is the Founder and CEO of Fight ENDO Foundation and Adenomyosis Australia. Turning personal adversity into advocacy, she has built national platforms for education, support and systemic health reform. Her leadership empowers women to be seen, heard and supported.

Odri Fernandes

Odri is a co-founder of Essor Business Hub and creator of the Biz Growth Network, supporting multicultural entrepreneurs through business, wellness and connection. Her work builds belonging, resilience and leadership across diverse communities. What began as a vision has grown into a statewide movement.

Jessica Adkins-Barber

Jessica is the owner of The Little Swim School and a leader in trauma-informed, neuroinclusive aquatic education. Her innovative programs support over 700 swimmers and influence industry standards statewide. She also leads inclusive community sport and delivers free water-safety education across Kingston.

Leah Percy

Leah is the Head Coach at Edithvale Aspendale Eagles Netball Club and a passionate youth mentor. Through coaching, clinics and school programs, she builds confidence, inclusion and leadership in young athletes. Her influence spans multiple sports and age groups.

Rachel Parkinson

Rachel is the founder of Little Feet Music, a nationally recognised early childhood music program running for over 20 years. Despite major health challenges, she has introduced thousands of children to joyful, confidence-building music education. Her work continues to shape young learners across Australia.

Julie Mullins

Julie is an inspiring science educator and Head of Department at Parkdale Secondary College. She champions girls in STEM through targeted programs, curriculum innovation and real-world learning partnerships. Her leadership is shaping confident, curious future scientists.

Monika Mehta

Monika is a Senior Manager at Schneider Electric and a leader in sustainability and energy analytics. Alongside her global professional role, she supports cultural connection and leadership as a community group leader. She is a role model for women balancing leadership, family and service.

Nally Pillay

Nally is the founder of the We Rise Kingston branch, creating inclusive networking opportunities for women in business. Through locally focused events and partnerships, she has built a thriving support ecosystem for female entrepreneurs. Her leadership strengthens Kingston’s local economy and community connections.

Rebecca Purvis

Rebecca is the Founder of OT Group, a nationally recognised allied health organisation. Under her leadership, OT Group has delivered innovative, inclusive services and built a strong culture of wellbeing and excellence. Her work empowers independence for people living with disability.

Vivianne Vasconcelos Rodrigues

Vivianne is the founder of PinkChic Hair Care and Liss Brazil Nanoplasty, a fast-growing haircare brand across Australia and New Zealand. After overcoming domestic violence, she built a successful business that empowers women through education and employment. Her leadership has been nationally recognised, including winning the 2025 AusMumpreneur Award.