WHEN serving on Port Stephens Council Councillor Sally Dover created a legacy for the women of the future for our region.

On International Women’s Day each year scholarships are awarded by Council, and in 2021 these were awarded to Nikita Austin, Elle Clayton-Brown and Bernadette Flynn.

Each of these women will receive $1000 toward their future goals.

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A recipient of the award last year Chontelle Grecian spoke at the ceremony, she told News Of The Area, “When I look at what women in leadership means, I feel that it is not only ensuring we have women in important senior leadership roles in business and in politics, but also recognise what leadership can mean for women in any role we choose.

“We have the opportunity to demonstrate leadership every day, whether at work or at home or socially, by being positive role models and nurturing or guiding those around us in these scenarios for a better outcome,” she said.

Chontelle spoke passionately about the role leaders have in igniting and maintaining passion, finding ways to innovate and building business ideas.

An initiative of Port Stephens Council, Mayor Ryan Palmer said the scholarships are a wonderful way to celebrate the women in our community.

“Our International Women’s Day Scholarships are designed to support local women and the valuable contribution they make to Port Stephens.

“It’s just one of the ways we can help change the future and celebrate those who are leading the way to an equal tomorrow.

Councillor Sarah Smith said it was an honour to announce the winners this morning.

“International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness against bias and take action for equality.

“These scholarships are a small way that Port Stephens Council is helping to create opportunities for local women.

“Nikita Austin of Salamander Bay is a speech pathologist and proud Indigenous woman who is creating inclusive holiday programs for children and adults with additional needs.

“Corlette’s Elle Clayton-Brown is a first year nursing student and competitive surfer who is pursuing her dreams of surfing on the world stage.

“Bernadette Flynn is a full time carer from Medowie who wants to connect and engage Port Stephens seniors through craft classes at retirement villages and aged care facilities.

“I want to congratulate our incredible scholarship recipients — I’m excited to see how they achieve their goals and do great things with their scholarship funds in 2021,” Cr Smith said.

By Marian SAMPSON