A local woman was honoured by Warwick Zonta at their recent International Women’s Day Breakfast.
Madeline Balloch, 17, received the Young Woman in Public Affairs Award at the Warwick Zonta’s International Women’s Day Breakfast 2022.
This award celebrates a young woman aged between 16 and 19 who has consistently and enthusiastically engaged in community activities that particularly empower young women and girls in the Warwick region.
“Several very comprehensive and impressive applications were received, and it was a difficult decision for our committee to select only one young woman to receive the award,” said Committee Chairperson, Susan Shaw.
Madeline impressed the committee with her commitment to, and achievements within, the Girl Guides where she is a patrol leader. She has also held leadership roles with her school and participated in community events such as Anzac ceremonies, Zonta’s Birthing Kits packing days, and the World’s Great Shave where her hair was cut and donated to make wigs for women undergoing cancer treatment.
Madeline exhibited a strong awareness of the challenges being faced by women in our neighbouring Pacific region and expressed future plans to pursue an interest in empowering women in these communities. As she hopes to study aviation upon leaving school, Madeline hopes to marry these two interests into meaningful action.
“Warwick Zonta will be very proud to submit Madeline’s application to the Zonta Area, and potentially the District, National and International Award. We are aware, however, that it is very difficult for regional young women to compete with those who live in urban areas where there are far greater opportunities for involvement in cultural and community initiatives,” said Susan Shaw.
Warwick Zonta encourages all aspiring young women in our region to apply for the Young Women in Public Affairs Award in 2023. This can be done by contacting their high school administration or approaching Warwick Zonta directly.
