Recognise inspiring women

Janu was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis (NF) as a child and is ambassador for the Children’s Tumour Foundation (CTF) where she has mentored youth and raised over $20,000.
Though having surgeries to remove tumours, Janu said the worst thing about her condition was that due to concerned relatives, she did not speak about it for 30 years.
“Then in 2019, I thought what have I got to be ashamed about and took part in my first fundraiser, raising $16,000 for CTF,” she said.
Thrilled to receive the International Women’s Day Award, Janu said it would help her shine a light on NF.
“I’m doing all I can to raise awareness so others don’t suffer like I did,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to taking part in NF Awareness Month in May and undertaking my next fundraising challenge.”
Other winners were:
Young Female Ambassador Award – Shaqaeq Rezai.
Shaqaeq is the Co-Founder of Modest Fashion Outlet, offering training and employment to migrant women.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Achievement Award – Michelle Pearce.
Michelle is a Gunai/Kurnai woman who has worked in Aboriginal Health for the past 25 years and has provided culturally significant care to Auburn Hospital patients.
Community Event Award – Aynalem Tessema.
Aynalem runs workshops for females about domestic violence and mental health.
Multicultural Leadership Award – Pilar Lopez.
Pilar is the Co-Founder of House to Grow, a not-for-profit organisation bringing empowerment to women through education.
Local Business Woman of the Year Award – Isabel Lorenzi.
Isabel, owner of Uplift Gym in Merrylands, has removed barriers for women through promoting gender inclusivity in weightlifting.
Mayor Lisa Lake said: “I’m extremely proud of these women who work tirelessly for progressive change, that support one another and make an outstanding contribution in their communities.”