March 2023: Nominations now open for the Hanson Mataskelekele and Andy Lynch International Women’s Day Awards
The Australian High Commission, Lynch and Mataskelekele families would like to invite members of the public to nominate outstanding women for two awards to mark International Women’s Day 2023. Winners will be announced by representatives of the Lynch and Mataskelekele families and the Australian High Commissioner at a ceremony in March.
These awards are a long-standing joint initiative 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:
- 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?
- 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:
- How has the nominee demonstrated exceptional leadership in their field/community?
- What positive impact has their work had on their colleagues and/or community?
- In what ways has the nominee set an example that could inspire or empower other women to assume leadership roles?
Submissions should include your nominee’s full name, their contact details and answer the key questions for the relevant award (approximately 250 words). Submissions should include an image of the nominee and the nominee’s permission for images in which they appear to be used by the Australian High Commission in media and social media.
Please send your submission to the Australian High Commission either in writing to P.O. Box 111, Port Vila, or via email to [email protected]
Nominations for both awards close on Sunday 19 February 2023. For more information, please call the Australian High Commission on 22777 or email [email protected].
If an award winner resides in Vanuatu but outside Port Vila, the Australian High Commission will pay for their return ticket to Port Vila to attend the award ceremony in March 2023.
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.