Mosman resident and charity founder Vicki Condon AM shared insights at Mosman Council's International Women's Day breakfast on building a resilient and confident generation of young people to help inspire inclusion.
Ms Condon was special guest at the event, attended by more than 100 community members and local school students on 8 March at Mosman Art Gallery.
In conversation with Mosman Mayor Carolyn Corrigan, Ms Condon spoke about her work as founder and chief executive officer of Raise Foundation.
Ms Condon is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and her work has been recognised through a Pro Bono Impact 25 Award, a Marie Claire Glass Ceiling Award, and as a Telstra Business Award finalist. She is a Member of the Order of Australia and a past Mosman Citizen of the Year.
Raise empowers young people through early intervention mentoring, equipping them with lifelong skills for a brighter future.
Since 2008, Raise has delivered more than 1000 early intervention youth mentoring programs across Australia; recruited, screened and trained more than 8800 volunteer mentors; and supported more than 13,500 young people.
"Young people need someone to truly listen to and support them," Ms Condon said.
"The benefits for young people, from a one-to-one mentoring program, like Raise include learning how to ask for help and developing skills to thrive in life."
"On International Women's Day we celebrate all the incredible women in the Raise village. From our female mentees who graduate the program with increased confidence and ability to cope plus optimism for the future; to the amazing women who make up 72 per cent of mentors in our program. And our female staff, for whom we proudly provide a flexible and nurturing work environment."
Mayor Corrigan said International Women's Day was a celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
"Vicki is highly accomplished and has set a great example and pathway to support and guide others," Mayor Corrigan said.
"She built Raise Foundation from the ground up and in doing so has inspired schools, staff and volunteers to make a positive difference in the lives of our young people here in Mosman and around the country."
International Women's Day provides an opportunity to recognise the achievements of women and their contribution to society.
