ACT Women’s Awards 2026 finalists announced, celebrating local changemakers and trailblazers
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From transforming healthcare and improving women’s safety to opening doors in construction, automotive and sport, 11 remarkable women and gender-diverse people have been named finalists in the 2026 ACT Women’s Awards.
Announced by Minister for Women, Seniors and Veterans Caitlin Tough, this year’s finalists represent a broad cross-section of leaders, advocates and innovators whose work is creating lasting change across Canberra and beyond.
The 2026 awards also mark a new chapter for the program, with a refreshed format designed to recognise impact across all fields – from industry and research to advocacy, community leadership and social change – regardless of whether that impact is local, national or international.
“The ACT Women’s Awards celebrate the remarkable women and gender diverse people whose work is making a real difference in our communities, workplaces and society,” Minister Tough said.
“The refreshed Awards recognise that women create impact in many different ways and across many different fields. The outstanding response to this year’s nominations shows the value of broadening the Awards and highlighting the diversity of women’s contributions.”
This year, 41 nominations were received across the three public award categories, with nominees recognised for achievements ranging from advancing housing policy and STEM education to improving aged care, supporting survivors of domestic and family violence, and creating more inclusive workplaces.
A fourth category – the Minister’s Impact Award – has also been introduced. Unlike the other awards, it is not open for public nomination and will be selected by the Minister for Women from the broader pool of nominees, recognising work in an area identified as a ministerial priority.
Minister Tough said each finalist had demonstrated an enduring commitment to improving outcomes for others.
“Behind every nomination is a story of persistence, vision and service. These nominees have dedicated their time, expertise and energy to improving opportunities and outcomes for others, often over many years,” she said.
“Everyone here has identified needs in their communities and taken action, whether by creating new opportunities, challenging barriers, improving services or driving reform. Their work is making a tangible difference to the lives of others.”
Meet the 2026 finalists
Amanda Allan
President of the National Association of Women in Construction ACT, recognised for supporting women’s participation in the construction industry through mentoring, professional development and more inclusive workplace initiatives.
Katherine Berney
Recognised for influencing national policy reform and systems change to improve women’s safety.
Ashlee Berry
Recognised for leadership in the property sector, advancing housing policy, championing women in industry, and supporting community initiatives through volunteering and fundraising.
Jasmine Fellows
Recognised for national leadership in STEM communication and connecting young people with science and technology pathways.
Rebecca Martin
Recognised for leadership at the Alexander Maconochie Centre, fostering a culture of safety, dignity and respect while supporting women in custody.
Raffy Sgroi
An automotive industry leader recognised for creating education, training and employment pathways that support women and underrepresented groups in the automotive sector.
Dr Sujatha Shanmugasundaram
Recognised for leadership in nursing education and gerontology, strengthening dementia and aged care through research, teaching and professional leadership.
Jasmine Sharma
Founder of the Kitchen to Crease initiative, creating opportunities for culturally diverse women and families to participate in sport, health and community activities.
Kamala Sharma-Wing
Recognised for advancing inclusion and diversity as the Australian Defence Force’s first full-time Hindu chaplain.
Robyn Smith
A national advocate recognised for improving education, psychosocial support and policy outcomes for people living with inherited cancer risk.
Lew Ching Yip
A survivor advocate and lived-experience leader working across domestic and family violence, mental health and youth advocacy.
The winners of the 2026 ACT Women’s Awards will be announced at a ceremony on Thursday 3 September. The event will also welcome new inductees to the ACT Women’s Honour Roll, recognising women who have received significant honours and awards for their contributions to the community.
Feature image: Shutterstock stock image
