Eight were named Category Winners in the Inspirational Women Awards, and over 20k for family violence victims.

On Saturday night, eight women were announced as category winners at the Inspirational Women Awards. 

A woman who has provided millions in philanthropic initiatives to our community, a survivor turned successful entrepreneur who has started seven businesses, and a woman who heroically saved three lives whilst undergoing chemotherapy are some of the women recognised for their achievements in the 2023 Inspirational Women’s Awards. 

The awards are part of an initiative to raise money for the family violence charities of the region whilst celebrating the female change-makers and leaders of Otago.

“Celebrating the Inspirational Women in our community whilst coming together on National Non-Violence Day Against Women to raise awareness creates a great synergy,” explained Julia Střelou, who is working with the refuges to organise this event. 

Jennifer Belmont, the Woman’s Touch Inspirational Woman Award recipient, revolutionised local philanthropy, managing $3.5m in donations and growing WCF rapidly despite personal hurdles. She initiated giving circles like Impact100 and Generation Give, amassing millions for various causes. With $35m in pledged bequests, her work fortifies her community and propels philanthropy.

Fowler Homes Entrepreneurial Woman Award recipient Karen Hattaway overcame hardships to own seven businesses, including the award-winning Blue Kanu Restaurant. A survivor, she advocates for women's empowerment and raises funds for local causes. She's raised significant funds for individuals and charities, hosted cultural events to celebrate Maori heritage, and is a qualified life coach. 

Rebecca Hembrow, the Ray White Community Recognition Award recipient, serves as the volunteer coordinator for the LUMA school program. While balancing teaching and family life, she's engaged over 10,000 students in this public art initiative, significantly contributing to the region's cultural scene. Despite personal challenges, she tirelessly contributes to her community through involvement in initiatives like Rotary International and literacy programs.

This year, we had three recipients of the Mountain Scene Resilience Award: Andrea Balona, who battled Cancer while starting QT Cats; Chennin Madden, who overcame chronic anxiety to start Cr8ting Balance; and Julie Moyle, who lost a child and started the Charitable Trust A Star is Born, offering keepsakes to grieving families. 

Carla De Njis received The Rydges  People’s Choice Award. Carla arrived in Queenstown from Brazil and spoke no English. She started her career as a cleaner and became a successful business owner, creating Tru Women’s Gym. 

We also gave a special Honoary Inspirational Woman Award posthumously to Jo-Mckenzie Mclean. Jo was an award-winning Stuff journalist and passionate advocate for reducing the stigma around cancer. While battling stage four cancer, she co-created the podcast “Jo vs Cancer,” offering insights and support to others on similar journeys. Despite undergoing chemotherapy just hours earlier, she heroically saved two men during an unexpected ordeal in Lake Dunstan. Sadly, on July 25, 2023, Jo lost her battle with cancer. Still, her legacy, including her podcast, inspires and aids those facing similar battles. 

“The work these women are doing has a real impact. They are the ones making our community a better place, and they deserve to be recognised. It feels incredibly special to have been able to offer them that, ” said event organiser Julia Střelou. 

I still have funds to collect from bidders, but the forecast is that over  $22,000 has been raised. All funds will be for The Women’s Refuge Otago and Central-Lakes Family Services. 

“I am again blown away by our community, who have come together to make this event magical. The heartbreaking stories of our brave speakers blew the audience away. I think domestic violence is on everyone’s radar now, and I guarantee they will speak to others about it. That’s how you create a snowball effect and start to make a change,” said Střelou. 

The next Awards & Gala for Women’s Refuge services will be in November 2024, so keep an eye out if you are interested in entering the Inspirational Women Awards or supporting the family violence charities of our region.