BREAKING: The annual Marie Claire Women of the Year Awards have just recognized outstanding Australian women for their groundbreaking achievements in advocacy, entertainment, and sports during a star-studded ceremony held on November 9, 2023. This year’s awards spotlighted women who are not only challenging societal norms but are also paving the way for a brighter future.
Among the honorees, Emma Mason, a mother and lawyer from NSW, has been named Changemaker of the Year for her tireless advocacy against cyberbullying, following the tragic loss of her 15-year-old daughter, Tilly, in 2022. Mason has been instrumental in spearheading reforms aimed at enhancing digital safety, including restrictions on social media access for users under 16 years old. With Australia’s new social media laws set to take effect on December 10, her efforts are expected to have a profound impact.
Mason addressed the United Nations in September, passionately advocating for global online protections for children. Her powerful speech earned her a standing ovation from leaders and delegates worldwide. “I’m just a mum from Bathurst who is trying to change the world,” she shared with AAP. “We need enough countries to band together to get the social media companies to actually change their behaviours.”
The event featured over 150 nominees, guests, and media walking the red carpet, celebrating the accomplishments of women who are transforming lives in both prominent and understated ways. Award winners included comedian Kitty Flanagan, who was named Entertainer of the Year, and eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, awarded Powerhouse of the Year.
Advocacy was further highlighted by Grace Toombs, founder of June Health, who shared the title of Advocate of the Year with Nicole Yade, CEO of the Women’s and Girls’ Emergency Centre. Toombs, a former medical student, launched June Health to make sexual and reproductive healthcare more accessible after her own difficult experiences with the medical system. “I wanted to provide people with access to care and make it empowering,” she stated.
June Health has already made waves, providing at-home STI and cervical screening test kits that have reached users across every state and territory in Australia. “Women who have had traumatic medical experiences, we have really changed the game for them,” said Toombs.
The selection panel for the awards included notable figures such as former Australian of the Year Grace Tame, comedian Celeste Barber, and chef Kylie Kwong. Marie Claire editor Georgie McCourt emphasized the significance of the winners’ work, stating, “These women don’t wait for a better future; they build one—one voice at a time.”
As the stories of these remarkable women continue to inspire, their advocacy and achievements remind us of the crucial role women play in driving social change. The impact of their work is being felt now, and the momentum is expected to grow as Australia leads the charge for reform in digital safety and women’s health.
Stay tuned for more updates on these incredible changemakers and their ongoing efforts to shape a better future for all.
