Nominations open for UWS Women of the West Awards

Aunty Francis Bodkin and Amy Krisenthal, winners of the 2014 Women of the West and Young Women of the West awards

Celebrate the many inspirational women in Greater Western Sydney by nominating a friend or colleague for the University of Western Sydney's annual Women of the West Awards, which are now open.

The Women of the West and Young Women of the West Awards recognise the significant contributions of women from the Greater Western Sydney region. Winners of each category receive a grant of $5,000 to further develop their leadership and advocacy work in their local community.

Nominations are open until Friday 12 December 2014, and winners will be publicly announced at the UWS International Women's Day celebration in March next year.

UWS Vice-Chancellor Professor Barney Glover says UWS first established the awards in 2005 to show its appreciation for the many, often unsung, women in our local communities who are helping to make a difference and change people's lives for the better.

"The awards have always received tremendous support from our local communities, and we hope that once again people will consider nominating a woman they know to be doing something truly special for the benefit of the people of Greater Western Sydney," says Professor Glover.

2014 winner, Aunty Frances Bodkin, says receiving the award in recognition for her advocacy and community work was a wonderful surprise.

Aunty Frances, who is a Dharawal Elder and Knowledge Holder, was nominated for her commitment to educating our region's youth on Aboriginal environmental science and Aboriginal culture.

"The award offered me the opportunity to meet and connect with fabulous and influential women throughout Greater Western Sydney and to use my prize to help worthy groups such as over 70 schools, two hospitals, numerous community groups throughout Campbelltown, Wollondilly and Camden", says Aunty Frances.

"I wish to thank Banyadjaminga South Western Area Aboriginal Group who assisted me with transport when needed. But more particularly, I would like to give my most grateful thanks to the UWS Women of the West judges for providing this opportunity to further my lifetime desire to have Aboriginal Knowledge recognised as not only a science, but as a scientific resource that can aid in improving the health and well-being of all Australians."

Nominations are open for both the 2015 Women of the West and Young Women of the West categories. Young Women of the West is for women aged 18-28 years.

To suit the Awards criteria, nominees must live and/or work in Greater Western Sydney; demonstrate leadership in their field of endeavour; and contribute to improving the lives of people in the region.

Ends

Tanya Patterson, Media Officer

13 November 2014