All three finalists impressed at the Zonta Club of Wollongong’s Young Women in Public Affairs Award announcement on Sunday. Zonta presents the award annually around International Women’s Day to showcase emerging young leaders making a difference.
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Winner Denali Hutt, of TIGS, is school captain and plans to study medicine or veterinary science. She wants to become a surgeon or specialist. Denali, 17, has a passion for helping others and volunteers for the Salvation Army and her local legacy club. She helps disadvantaged children access education resources and loving homes through CareSouth and has provided guidance and assistance for those with a disability at Sony Camp and the Disability Trust tennis and netball programs. She is interested in international issues and is involved with the World Vision Global Leaders Forum, Model United Nations and the World Parks Congress. She has achieved her Gold Duke of Edinburgh and participated in a week long immersion in a remote Aboriginal community in the Northern Territory.
“It feels amazing to know that your contributions are really valued in the community and making a difference. “This definitely opens up so many opportunities. It is incredible to know that you have the power to make change. This is a huge motivator,” Denali said.
Finalist and St Mary Star of the Sea Year 12 student Grace Agnew wants to study law and join the police force. She mentors other students through the school’s art club, is treasurer of the school’s Z Club, raises funds for projects promoting women’s health and safety, works to alleviate poverty in the developing world as president of the Caritas Club and raises awareness about issues such as violence against women as well as being a volunteer surf life saver.
It feels amazing to know that your contributions are really valued in the community
- Denali Hutt
Finalist and Smith’s Hill High School captain Jesse Tran is interested in international relations and wants to work as an interpreter/translator in a cross cultural environment to help break down cultural barriers. She also wants to address inequalities in society such as prejudices faced by women and has has created a mental health action, awareness and support program in her school called Umbrella. It provides a platform for those seeking student-to-student assistance in how they can approach mental health and access resources.
