DR Karen Demmery, founder of Burbirra and non-profit Spirit Hive, has received the 2023 Women of Spirit award.
On Tuesday, Lifeline Canberra hosted the award ceremony, honouring women in the community that have overcome adversity, given back, and inspired others to do the same.
Lifeline CEO Carrie Leeson said women of spirit are often hidden in the community, quietly working away and giving their time to lift up others and support vital causes.
“For this reason, each year we ask Canberrans to help us uncover women of spirit in our community so we can recognise their efforts and tell their important and inspiring stories,” said Leeson.
Karen Demmery was selected from a pool of 11 nominees.
“Burbirra is a company with a strong mission to help people overcome their past and embrace a thriving future,” she says.
“At Burbirra, we care about people, we love supporting those who are just like I was, not believing they’re worthy or they matter.”
The Rising Women of Spirit Award, which recognises women who have only recently overcome adversity, yet are still achieving amazing outcomes in the community, went to Franchesca Isla.
Franchesca is a counsellor for Toora Women Inc, and created the Brave program for Bully Zero Australia.
The 11 Women of Spirit finalists are:
- Alice Fitzsimmons
- Amelda Keys
- Karen Demmery
- Kartika Medcraft-Smith
- Kate Seselja
- Kerrie Carroll
- Lucy Hudson
- Renaye Watchirs
- Roxanne Jones
The two Rising Women of Spirit finalists are:
- Franchesca Isla
- Jodie Kirkness
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