YOUNG trailblazers across rural NSW will have an opportunity to win a once-in-a-lifetime 'power trip' to the nation's capital through Country to Canberra's 2017 leadership competition.
Now in its fourth year, the competition prize will award at least 10 young rural Australian women with a chance to rub shoulders with politicians and chief executives as well as take leadership and public speaking training, a tour of Parliament and much more.
The initiative’s founder Hannah Wandel says it’s about showing girls there is no limit to what they can achieve.
"From Julie Bishop to Tanya Plibersek, our past NSW winners have met inspiring leaders, built confidence, and have gone on to make an incredible impact in their local communities,” Ms Wandel said.
“It’s also an amazing opportunity to connect with other young rural go-getters!”
To enter, Country to Canberra is asking girls to submit a two minute video or 400 words answering the question: 'from primary school to Prime Minister, how can we create strong pathways to power for women?'.
“Just 25 per cent of ASX 200 board positions are held by women, and only 32pc of federal politicians are women,” Ms Wandel said.
“We want to change this by empowering students and giving them an opportunity to come up with innovative solutions.
“We target high school, because it’s a critical time in a young woman’s leadership pathway.
“We also know that distance, time and funding barriers can make life tough for rural students. Through our competition and prize, we provide access to training and mentorship, no matter a girl’s background and no matter how far away she lives.”
2016 NSW winner, Mandy Mills, Foster, praised the initiative’s impact.
"It was a life-changer. It opened so many doors and showed me I could achieve anything I set my mind to.”
Ms Wandel is encouraging all eligible rural female high school students to take part.
"This could be the kick-start you need. We want to be a microphone for the voices of young, bright future-leaders."
Winners also score mentoring sessions and access to Country to Canberra’s alumni network.
For further details visit the Country to Canberra website.
Entries open July 25 and close September 8.
