Two rural SA women have won Country to Canberra's annual Leadership Competition, for their impressive entries about ways females can empower one another and their communities in times of change.
Tegan Senar, Auburn, and Emily Sparrow, Kapunda, will represent the state in the competition, with 15 winners in total across the country, who will take part in this year's virtual program, C2C On Screen.
The multi-day virtual program, which will run from November 22-24, will include an array of mentorship opportunities, leadership workshops, and meetings with state and federal politicians.
The virtual program replaces a "Power Trip" - an all-expenses-paid trip to Canberra - which was unable to happen due to COVID-19, but follows on from success in its inaugural year last year.
I would also really like to gain more skills in public speaking and gain knowledge that will help me become more involved in my local community.
- TEGAN SPARROW
"In the face of the challenges of the past two years, this program provides opportunity and excitement to our rural and remote winners, and we are thrilled to build on the success of 2020 to deliver a memorable experience," Country to Canberra chief executive officer Han Worsley said.
Mr Worsley said it was a "once in a lifetime" experience for those participating in the program, with the winners having emerged from a wonderful group of entries.
"The entries this year were of exceptional quality, and many shared stories of the unique hardships and triumphs of rural life during the COVID-19 pandemic," he said.
Ms Sparrow said she was looking forward to being a part of the highly-competitive program.
"I am proud to be representing SA - participating in such an influential program is a privilege," she said.
"I'm excited to meet the other winners and gain knowledge from their experiences and perspectives.
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"I would also really like to gain more skills in public speaking and gain knowledge that will help me become more involved in my local community."
Ms Senar said she was looking forward to participating in the virtual program with winners from interstate.
"I hope to make strong connections with those I meet (online), learn new skills, gain a deeper understanding of issues around my community, state, and Australia and how I can help improve them or make change," she said,
Breeanna Drummond, Lameroo, and Molly Wild, Mount Gambier, also submitted good entries, and were among the top 40 finalists
For further details, visit www.countrytocanberra.com.au
