Some of Western Sydney's most inspiring and community-minded achievers have been profiled in a new book - 'Women of Blacktown 2025'.
Blacktown City Council, The Stories Untold Collective and Australian Catholic University Blacktown Campus produced the book to celebrate inspiring locals as part of International Women's Day this month.
'Women of Blacktown 2025' contains stories of 25 remarkable women from different backgrounds who have made outstanding contributions to Western Sydney.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting was proud of the initiative.
"Blacktown City has many extraordinary women who continue to challenge societal beliefs and cultural expectations of how they should live their lives," he said.
"Council celebrates the achievements of local women through events and award programs and this book is another way we can bring attention to their contributions."
Blacktown City Woman of the Year 2023 and founder of The Stories Untold Collective Emie Roy conceived and led the project.
"The journey of this project for the last 10 months has been one of discovery, commitment and deep connection to the narratives explored in this book," she said.
"Diversity is a consistent theme, in many contexts - cultural backgrounds, personal experiences, and the various fields in which these women excel.
"Our vision is that in today's world of uncertainties, this collection of stories builds understanding and inclusivity, and helps to inspire fellow women to march forward, no matter what."
Australian Catholic University Campus Dean (Blacktown) and Senior Research Fellow Valentine Mukuria said the book was a fitting celebration of the incredible women who have contributed so much to the Blacktown community.
"This book reflects ACU's commitment to enabling flourishing lives and fostering thriving communities in Blacktown," she said.
"ACU is Blacktown's university, and we are here to work in, with and for the local community.
"I hope this book inspires young women and girls to dream big, embrace their ambitions and know that success is within their reach, right here in Blacktown.
"Our community is blessed with so many talented, resilient and resourceful women, and I'm excited to see how the next generation builds on this legacy."
'Women of Blacktown 2025' will be available from Blacktown City Libraries, Council's Blacktown Memories website, and the State Library's Indyreads: https://indyreads.libraries.nsw.gov.au.
The women profiled in the book are:
- mentor and mental health ambassador Joy Adan
- ACU Blacktown Senior Community Engagement Officer Caroline Allen
- Blacktown Older Womens Network Secretary Robyn Atkins
- educator and author, Dr Anne Benjamin
- former Blacktown City Councillor Kathie Collins OAM
- pastoral care coordinator Tresa Diing
- Blacktown City Councillor Julie Griffiths AM
- 2024 Blacktown City Citizen of the Year Rachael Hanlon
- academic and volunteer Dr Brenda Hayman
- exercise physiologist Nikki Lodge
- General practitioner Dr Kim Loo
- Chain Reaction Foundation Executive Director Rumbi Mabambe
- Mitchell High School Principal Elena Marinis
- Blacktown Area Community Centres Executive Officer Nafiye Mind
- SydWest Multicultural Services CEO Elfa Moraitakis
- solicitor Nalika Padamasena OAM
- artist Lua Pellegrini
- Bidwill Uniting Director Bec Reidy
- artist Danielle RG
- Communications Minister and Member for Greenway the Hon Michelle Rowland
- ACU Future Students Associate Director Caroline Taouk
- Aboriginal health worker and mentor Dolie Ufi
- social inclusion and disability advocate Shandana Usman
- entrepreneur Lee Ussher
- the late Blacktown City Council Community Development Officer Jesica Varela
