This week we announced the recipients of 100 mentoring scholarships for female business owners who are driving economic impact across the country.
Each scholarship recipient received a year-long mentorship with a high calibre business mentor, as a part of our Inspiring Rare Birds mentoring program.
None of this would’ve been possible without the support of the Office for Women. The Minister herself congratulated the winners of the scholarships saying she was proud that the Government was supporting Australian business women through the Inspiring Rare Birds program.
“There are so many talented female entrepreneurs out there, from all over Australia, from all different backgrounds. This mentoring program is a great opportunity for female entrepreneurs to learn new skills from experienced mentors, expand their networks and enhance their businesses.”
– Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash.
Our selection committee had to choose from more than 300 submissions which were received from women all over Australia. The entries were so varied, including Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants, applicants from a rural, regional or remote area, refugee or migrants, and applicants from a low socio-economic background.
Pictured here are three entrepreneurs from the Illawarra / Shoalhaven region south of Sydney: (L to R) Michelle Forte from Austinmer Dance Theatre, Diana Foye from Foye legal and Lisa Burling from LBPR.
I can’t wait to see all of you fly and benefit from this mentoring. I am very grateful to the Australian Government for funding these scholarships. It’s been great to see you all sharing the news with the community as well!