The trio join Carnival Cruises CEO, Ann Sherry, author and journalist Jana Wendt, Senator Penny Wong and inspirational burns survivor, Turia Pitt on the judging panel.
Now in its second year, the Women of the Future scholarship programme aims to uncover the female leaders of tomorrow. This year, the initiative is proudly sponsored by the national carrier, Qantas.
“We wanted a panel of judges that was at once distinguished and inspirational,” explained AWW editor-in-chief, Helen McCabe. “And we are confident we have found that perfect mix.”
Entries have been flowing in since the competition opened in April. Finalists will be announced in the August issue of the magazine. The winners will be announced in the October issue of The Weekly – and will share in over $150,000 worth of scholarship money and prizes.
Since launching last year, the awards are building a reputation for discovering the best of Australia’s young entrepreneurial, philanthropic, scientific, academic and artistic talent. Last year’s ultimate winner, Susanna Matters, won for her enterprising initiative to create recyclable sanitary pads for girls in remote communities in Kenya, thus lifting their participation rate at school.
“We were bowled over by the calibre of entrants last year, and early indications are that this year’s batch will be at least as impressive,” said Helen. “Together with our eminent panel of judges, we look forward to identifying and rewarding some of the brightest young minds in the country.”
