International Women's Day is a global celebration that began in the early 1900s, arising from Labour movements in North America and Europe.
It has since grown to become a worldwide event, recognised by the United Nations.
IWD is a day to:
- recognise and celebrate women's achievements
- raise awareness about women's equality
- call for positive change advancing women
- lobby for accelerated gender parity.
Who can be nominated?
You are nominating a woman for the significant honour of being Blacktown City Woman of the Year 2026.
Your nomination should demonstrate your nominee’s contribution to their local community and reflect this year’s International Women’s Day campaign theme.
A woman who has:
- made an outstanding contribution to their local community
- inspired others to contribute to their local community
- risen above adversity to reach their goals
- consistently demonstrated exceptional and progressive leadership
- mentored and inspired other women
- demonstrated leadership, innovation and creativity.
- nominees must live, work or volunteer in the Blacktown City local government area
- nominees must be aged 16 years and over
- nominees must identify as a woman
- be able to demonstrate the benefit of their activities either through the organisation they serve or directly to the community
- all nominees must give approval to be nominated
- staff and Councillors of Blacktown City Council are not eligible for nomination for Blacktown City Woman of the Year
- the nomination form must be completed in full otherwise the nomination will be ineligible
- each individual need only be nominated once for consideration. The selection process will not be influenced by the number of nominations received
- self nominations will be not be accepted.
All finalists are cordially invited to attend Council's International Women's Day breakfast on Friday 6 March 2026.
The award recipient will be announced during this celebratory event.
For more information please phone 9839 6203 or email.
Council is excited to celebrate the amazing women who make our community thrive.
The Blacktown Woman of the Year Award honours outstanding women who have made significant contributions to our community through their leadership, volunteer work, professional achievements, and community service.
- know an exceptional woman in Blacktown?
- a dedicated volunteer who goes above and beyond?
- a successful businesswoman inspiring others?
- a community leader who makes a real difference?
- a passionate advocate for social justice?
Blacktown City Council celebrates International Women's Day by acknowledging the contributions of women in the local community through the "Blacktown City Woman of the Year" award. This award recognises women who have made significant contributions to the community through their professional or volunteer work.
Previous Winners
2025: Melissa Katoa - A nurse who volunteers her expertise to help single mothers and domestic violence victims. Melissa uses her professional knowledge and life experience to support women and families in need, particularly in the Pacific Islander community.
2024: Angela Van Dyke - CEO of North West Community Services, known for her advocacy and innovative approaches to foster inclusion and support for marginalised individuals.
2023: Emie Roy - Storyteller and founder of 'The Stories Untold', a platform that highlights important stories and promotes inclusion through various media.
2022: Donna McCarthy & Kelly Doyle - Superintendent Donna McCarthy was the Commander of Riverstone Police Area Command, and Kelly Doyle is a foster care advocate.
2021: Rissa McInnes & Harinder Kaur - Rissa McInnes was recognised for her community fundraising, and Harinder Kaur, a domestic violence advocate.
These women have demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and a commitment to improving the lives of others in Blacktown City. Their work has made a significant impact on the community and serves as an inspiration to others.