Four young women from rural NSW have won a 'Power Trip' to Canberra to meet with influential female politicians, CEOs and mentors, after being announced winners of Country to Canberra's prestigious leadership competition.
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One of those being Inverell student Imogen McDonald, who said she was grateful for the opportunity and ready to do her hometown proud.
Out of hundreds who submitted applications into the competition, Imogen was recognised for her outstanding ideas about diversity and leadership.
The 16-year-old, who recently participated in the NSW YMCA Youth Parliament, will attend the power trip from November 23 to 27.
"I'm honoured to represent my community and advocate on all the issues I am passionate about," she said.
Country to Canberra chief executive Hannah Wandel said the strong number of entries made for an incredibly tough selection process.
The annual trip includes a powerful women's breakfast at the Hyatt Hotel, meetings with Federal ministers, a careers fair, a tour of Parliament, leadership and public speaking training supported by TedX and tickets to question time.
"This is the first time we've ever had four winners from NSW. These young women now get to represent their communities and advocate all the way to the nation's capital.
"In past years, winners have met with Prime Minister Scott Morrison, former Foreign Minister Julie Bishop and the likes of Tanya Plibersek, Bridget McKenzie and Jacqui Lambie," Ms Wandel said.
AgriFutures Australia generously sponsored 10 of the 18 winners.
Country to Canberra is delighted to have unveiled its top 40 entries, with the non-profit passionate about getting young women involved in the organisation.
"Our aim is to empower all rural girls to reach their leadership potential, and that's why we also run our project empower workshops in schools.
"We need to continue to encourage young women's leadership, fight for gender equality and create a fairer Australia for everybody."