Amanda McKenzie has been announced as a winner in The Australian Financial Review and Westpac 100 Women of Influence Awards for 2014. Amanda has been recognised in the Social Enterprise and Not-for-Profit category for providing authoritative, expert advice to the Australian public on climate change through her role as CEO of the Climate Council.
Amanda believes that the Australian public deserves to be well-informed climate change science, impacts and solutions. She was instrumental in setting up the new Climate Council as an independent alternative to the Climate Commission, funded through Australia’s biggest crowdfunding campaign.
“Im honoured to receive this award and in doing so acknowledge the crucial role women play in not for profits. The Climate Council is funded mostly by women, which is true for most of the not for profits around country. Women are leading the way volunteering, donating, and increasingly, running not for profit organisations,” said Ms McKenzie.
Now in its third year, the 100 Women of Influence Awards celebrate outstanding women from a wide variety of sectors across Australia. There are ten categories: Board/Management, Public Policy, Young Leader, Social Enterprise and Not-for-profit, Philanthropy, Global Influence, Innovation, Local/Regional Community, Diversity and Business Enterprise. Entrants into the awards were assessed by a panel of esteemed judges and have been recognised based on their outstanding ability to demonstrate vision, leadership, innovation and action in and beyond their fields.
Gail Kelly, Westpac Group Chief Executive Officer said, “The breadth and calibre of our 100 Women of Influence for 2014 is remarkable.
“It is such a privilege to be able to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions these women are making to Australia. The 2014 winners will join the now 300 strong, prestigious alumni of these awards.
“With over 40% of leadership roles at Westpac filled by females, I am fortunate to be surrounded by inspirational women every day. We are blessed to have such great numbers of influential women doing incredible things in many industries and organisations right across Australia.
Fairfax Media CEO Greg Hywood said: “This year’s 100 Women of Influence join a growing movement that is changing our society for the better in a myriad of ways. Thanks and congratulations to everyone for the contribution they are making.
“Many of this year’s finalists were nominated by men. It’s a powerful development to see men wholeheartedly supporting women across all the categories. In order to move the dial, more men need to step up and take an active interest, alongside women, in addressing gender equality.”
On Wednesday 22 October, a gala event will be held at Sydney’s Town Hall to celebrate these women and the significant impact that each has made within their chosen field. The ten category winners and overall winner for the year will also be announced on the evening.