Budding students from rural SA were selected to take-part in the fourth annual Country to Canberra power trip this month to meet some of Australia’s most influential leaders.
Port Lincoln student Eliza Nelligan, 17, and Vanessa Vu, 18, Renmark were given the opportunity to meet Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, Minister for Women Michaelia Cash and National Farmers’ Federation chair Fiona Simson.
Country to Canberra chief executive Hannah Wandel said the tour was about empowering young women with the skills and opportunities to overcome gender and geographical barriers to success.
“They attended a powerful women’s breakfast and had a VIP lunch at parliament house and met privately with the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to talk equality, education and leadership,” she said.
“We still have a severe gender imbalance in our political leadership, and just 5.5 per cent of CEO’s in our top ASX 200 companies are women. We need to generate a conversation about gender equality and be proactive about solutions.”
Fourteen girls attended the power trip, travelling from Arnhem Land, NT and Karratha, WA.
“Distance, time and funding barriers make accessing education and career opportunities tough for rural and remote students. We need to ensure no matter where you’re from, what gender you are, or what your background is, we’re giving you the tools to succeed,” Ms Wandel said.
Ms Nelligan said the trip had made a huge difference in her life.
“It was great to get tangible advice from inspiring leaders. I’m looking forward to applying these principles back in my local community. It’s been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she said.
Attendees also undertook a day of leadership training and skill-building on public speaking, leadership values and self-care at the Australian National University.
“They also receive a long-term mentor to help them achieve their dreams,” Ms Wandel said.
