The Australian High Commission is inviting members of the public to nominate outstanding women for two awards to mark International Women’s Day 2022. Winners will be announced by the Australian High Commissioner in a ceremony on 9 March 2022.

These awards are a long-standing joint initiative of the Lynch and Mataskelekele families and the Australian High Commission in Port Vila to recognise the leadership and contribution of women in Vanuatu society.

Nominations are invited for the Andy Lynch Award for Excellence in the Community Sector and the Hanson Mataskelekele Award for Women in Leadership. Details of the awards are provided below with key questions to guide nominations:

The Andy Lynch Award for Excellence in the Community Sector

Mrs Andy Lynch was a strong advocate for equality, particularly for people living with disability. For the Andy Lynch Award for Excellence in the Community Sector, members of the public are invited to nominate women who have demonstrated commitment to building stronger and more sustainable communities in Vanuatu.

Nomination Questions are: How has the nominee demonstrated a commitment to serving others, particularly those considered to be most vulnerable? What positive contribution has the nominee made to the community? And In what ways has the nominee served as a role model to inspire others?

The Hanson Mataskelekele Award for Women in Leadership

Mrs Hanson Mataskelekele was a teacher and former first lady who advanced women’s rights and women’s leadership. For the Hanson Mataskelekele Award for Women in Leadership, members of the public are invited to nominate women who have demonstrated ongoing strong skills in leadership.

Nomination questions are how has the nominee demonstrated exceptional leadership in their field/community? What positive impact has their work had on on their colleagues and/or community? And in what ways has the nominee set an example that could inspire or empower other women to assume leadership roles?

Submissions should include a nominee’s full name and answer the key questions for the relevant award and should be approximately 250 words.

Submission should be sent to the Public Affairs Team at the Australian High Commission either in writing to P.O. Box 111, Port Vila, or via email to australia_vanuatu@dfat.gov.au

Nominations for both awards close on Thursday 17 February 2022.

If an award winner is from outside Port Vila, the Australian High Commission will pay for their return fare to Port Vila to attend the award ceremony on 9 March 2022.

International Women’s Day is recognised across the world as a day to celebrate the achievements of women and call for further action on gender equality. The day helps promote and protect the equal rights of women and celebrate the courage and determination of women who play extraordinary roles in our community.


SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST