women in leadership, inspiring

Pictured from left to right: Deputy Dean Eddie Blass -
Swinburne, Cr Jeanette McRae - Ryrie Ward, 
Cr Samantha Dunn - Lyster Ward, Ronni Kahn -
Ozharvest, Margaret Brooks and Jessica Cruff. 

One of my favourite events in the calendar is the Women in Leadership, Be Inspired forum, a partnership between the Shire of Yarra Ranges and Swinburne - Lilydale.

This year's forum heard from Ronni Kahn, founder of OzHarvest Food Rescue, a non-denominational charity that rescues excess food which would otherwise be discarded. This excess food is distributed to charities supporting the vulnerable in Sydney, Newcastle, Adelaide and Brisbane. Ronni is looking to set up in Melbourne soon.

Ronni's story certainly inspired women attending that night. Following Ronni's presentation was a panel session which included experiences, stories and advice from Yarra Ranges Councillor Jeanette McRae, Yarra Ranges Ian de la Rue Award recipient 2012 Margaret Brooks and 2012 Swinburne University Scholarship recipient Jessica Cruff.

I was delighted to be able to talk about the importance of women in local government, a topic that is dear to my heart. If you're thinking of running in the upcoming local government elections click here for more information.