RAYMOND Terrace resident Leanne Pateman is among this year’s finalists in the Rotary Inspirational Women’s Awards (RIWA).
The finalists were announced by Jodie Harrison MP and Hugh McDermott MP at Parliament House in Sydney.
“Each year, these awards recognise the tireless and selfless contributions of women and girls from across NSW,” Ms Harrison said.
“This year’s nominees continue to showcase inspirational women – those who give generously and help build stronger communities.”
The judging panel was made up of Rotary members from across the state.
They noted the high calibre of nominations this year and said that deciding the finalists was a challenging task but wonderful honour.
Fifteen finalists were recognised from regional and rural locations.
Leanne has been an active volunteer at Salvation Army and NSW Rotary clubs for several years.
She comes from a background of domestic violence and now assists vulnerable individuals including domestic violence survivors, parolees and First Nations people.
“I come from a heavy, hard past with many problems, but I turned it all around and now help others in the same situation,” Leanne told News Of The Area.
Some of her projects include feeding kids before school, mentoring, working with the homeless and assisting in rehousing programs.
She also runs a podcast called Hoodwink, supporting female ex-prisoners reintegrate into society.
“I’m very humbled to be in the finals for most inspirational women, it’s amazing,” she said.
An Awards Ceremony is set to be held on 28 September at Bankstown Sports Club in Sydney.
By Cosette DE LORENZO
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