The Australia Today International Women’s Day Awards 2025 was a night to remember as outstanding women from across New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland, and Victoria came together to celebrate leadership, resilience, and excellence.
Held at the Mayfair Ballroom, Grand Hyatt Melbourne, the event honoured the contributions of multicultural women who are shaping Australia’s future across various sectors, including education, business, STEM, governance, and community service.
The prestigious evening was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Maree Edwards, Speaker of the Victorian Parliament; Natalie Hutchins, Minister For Women, Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India to Australia; Natalie Suleyman MP, Minister for Youth; Dr. Sushil Kumar, Consul General of India, Melbourne; Evan Mulholland MP, Shadow Multicultural Minister of Victoria; Renee Heath MP, Shadow Assistant Multicultural Minister of Victoria; Luba Grigorovitch MP; Nirajan Gauli, Consul of Nepal; Joe McCracken MP.
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A Night of Inspiration, Celebration, and Cultural Performances
The night was a vibrant fusion of dance, music, food, and heartfelt conversations, making it a true celebration of women’s achievements.
Jitarth Jai Bharadwaj, Founder and Managing Editor of The Australia Today, opened the event with a powerful speech, reflecting on how the platform was launched during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic from his study, with co-founders Dr. Amit Sarwal in Fiji and Pallavi Jain in India.
Over four years, The Australia Today has grown into one of the country’s most-read multicultural news platforms, amassing over 8.6 million readers. He highlighted the platform’s Women’s Wednesday initiative, which has effectively spotlighted women’s issues in an engaging and impactful manner.
Minister for Women, Natalie Hutchins, highlighted the significance of empowering women and fostering opportunities for their success.
She remarked,
“Empowering women is about creating opportunities and breaking down barriers, and tonight’s awards are a testament to those who are doing just that.”
Her words underscored the importance of recognising and celebrating the achievements of multicultural women who continue to inspire and lead in their respective fields.
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Reflecting on the evening, Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India to Australia said,
“Tonight, we celebrate the incredible women who are not just leading in their fields but are also shaping the future of our communities.”
The awards recognised exceptional women leading in their respective fields:
1- Health and Wellbeing Leadership Award
Nidhi Trivedi
Nidhi Trivedi, the esteemed founder of Nidhi Perception Pty Ltd, has distinguished herself as a beacon of innovation and support in the mental health field. Her practice has provided invaluable mental health support to over 2,000 individuals, greatly enhancing their quality of life.
Author of the impactful book “The Lives Inside Our Head,” Nidhi’s unique approach to mental health counselling has earned her prestigious recognitions including the CEO of the Year 2024 by the APAC in the United Kingdom.
Nidhi’s groundbreaking work doesn’t stop at her practice; she is also a lauded speaker on the international stage, sharing her deep insights into human psychology at numerous global conferences, including events in Thailand and the Netherlands.
2- Legal Excellence Award
Radhika Kanhai
Radhika Kanhai, is a prominent commercial lawyer based in Melbourne and Partner at Moray & Agnew Lawyers, brings over 25 years of legal expertise and leadership to the table.
Her extensive involvement in industry associations underscores her commitment to fostering professional growth and championing diversity within the legal community.
3- Hospitality Excellence Award
Shafali Tomar
Shafali Tomar, a luminary in the hospitality industry, has been recognized with the Hospitality Excellence Award for her transformative contributions to the sector. As the managing director of Priya Group, Shafali has revolutionized guest experiences by seamlessly blending luxury with sustainability.
Her leadership has propelled Priya Group to the forefront of hospitality innovation, particularly through her commitment to eco-friendly practices and exceptional customer service.
Shefali’s initiatives, such as integrating smart technology and prioritizing local community engagement, have set new benchmarks for the industry.
4- Food and Beverages Innovation Award
Anna Dewan
Anna Dewan, Director of Burger Road Australia, has significantly shaped Melbourne’s dining scene. Her leadership expanded Burger Road from one to multiple locations, earning her the title of Melbourne’s Youngest Entrepreneur of the Year in 2022.
Anna’s recent venture, “Thaali,” a contemporary Indian restaurant, quickly became a local favorite, exemplifying her knack for blending quality dining with cultural richness.
5- Sports Excellence Award – Afghan Eleven Cricket Team Members:
Firooza Amiri, Setara Amiri, and Nahida Sapan
The Afghan Eleven Cricket Team members are stellar examples of excellence and determination in sports. These remarkable athletes have not only excelled on the cricket field but have also become beacons of hope and resilience for young women athletes around the world.
Overcoming significant obstacles, they have continued to pursue their passion for cricket, inspiring countless others with their dedication and perseverance. Their journey is a testament to the power of sports as a platform for empowerment and cultural exchange.
To encourage the women leaders present Hon. Maree Edwards, Speaker of the Victorian Parliament said,
“Tonight, we celebrate the resilience, leadership, and achievements of incredible women who continue to break barriers and inspire future generations.”
She added, “Their contributions are shaping a more inclusive and empowered society, and it is a privilege to honour them.”
Shadow Multicultural Minister of Victoria, Evan Mulholland MP, began his address with the Hindu greeting “Jai Mata Di!”, acknowledging the cultural significance of the occasion.
He expressed his deep appreciation for the extraordinary achievements of multicultural women across Australia, highlighting their determination, resilience, and success.
“Victoria thrives because of the contributions of its diverse and talented women,” Mulholland said.
“Their success stories inspire not only their communities but also the entire state. It’s a privilege to stand among them and acknowledge their excellence,”
he added.
6- Woman of the Year Award
Pooja Gupta
Pooja Gupta, Managing Director of Manhari Group, has been instrumental in transforming the company from a startup into a $400 million enterprise.
Together with her husband, Madhur Gupta, she co-founded Manhari Metals in 2007, a Melbourne-based metal recycling firm. Under their leadership, the company has expanded to over 120 employees across three sites in Victoria, processing up to 180,000 metric tons of materials annually.
Pooja’s strategic vision and commitment to sustainability have been pivotal in the company’s growth and its significant contributions to environmental conservation through innovative recycling solutions.
Beyond business, she emphasises community engagement, with Manhari Metals sponsoring local sports teams and initiatives, reflecting her dedication to social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
7- Arts and Culture Inspiration Award
Nirzari Patel
Nirzari Patel stands out as a beacon of artistic innovation and cultural preservation, earning her well-deserved recognition as this year’s Arts and Culture Awardee at The Australia Today International Women’s Day Awards.
Her profound contributions have not only enriched the vibrant tapestry of multicultural Australia but also ensured that traditional and contemporary arts continue to thrive and inspire. Through her creative endeavors and community engagement, Nirzari has fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity, making her a pivotal figure in Australia’s cultural landscape.
8- STEAM Trailblazer Award
i- Dr. Indu Bala
Dr. Indu Bala, a Lecturer at the University of Adelaide’s School of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, is a force to reckon with in the realms of mathematical modeling and data science.
Her pioneering work, particularly in developing transparent and explainable AI models, marks her as a standout recipient of the STEAM Trailblazer Award. Dr. Bala’s innovative approach seamlessly bridges the gap between intricate theoretical research and tangible, real-world applications, tackling some of the most pressing challenges in engineering, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.
ii- May Lam
May Lam, an eminent figure in the STEM landscape, holds the prestigious position of Chief Information Officer at Australian Payments Plus (AP+). Renowned for her transformative leadership in the payments industry, May brings over 27 years of rich experience spanning financial services, fintech, and public sectors across the APAC region.
Her profound expertise in payment systems and cross-border ecosystems has made significant impacts. A champion for innovation and community impact, May serves on several influential boards and panels, including the Emerging Payments Association Asia and the CPMI API Expert Panel, advising G20 leaders on critical payment harmonization initiatives.
9- Community Hero Award
i- Asha Bhat
Asha Bhatt OAM stands as a beacon of change and progress in Indigenous affairs, dedicating nearly two decades to transformative leadership and advocacy.
As the CEO of the Southern Aboriginal Corporation, Asha has been pivotal in implementing ground-breaking initiatives that address critical social and economic challenges within Indigenous communities across Australia.
Her work is marked by her exceptional ability to merge grassroots advocacy with strategic policy influence, ensuring that Indigenous peoples’ voices are heard and central to crafting long-lasting solutions.
ii- Cissy Ma
Cissy Ma has truly carved a niche as a vanguard of leadership, mentoring, and business development, influencing a broad spectrum of industries with her dynamic approach and far-reaching impact.
As the distinguished recipient of the Community Hero Award, Cissy’s extensive contributions highlight her pivotal role as a mentor and leader.
She is the co-founder of the APAC Women’s Mentoring Circle, an expansive network with over 1,500 members, and the Founding Activator of Coralus, which spans five countries and includes over 7,000 members dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs.
10- Leadership in Governance and Public Service Award
i- Dr. Abha Suri
Dr. Abha Suri has distinguished herself as a beacon of leadership in both academia and public service. Awarded the Global Power Leader 2024 in the Sydney Parliament on December 12, 2024, Dr. Suri is a respected lecturer with a Ph.D. in Management, renowned for her impactful teaching and commitment to shaping future leaders with integrity.
In her role as a Councillor for Camden, she has been pivotal in advancing policies focused on community safety, inclusivity, and sustainable development.
ii- Fabiola Campbell
Fabiola Campbell has set a benchmark in public service and governance by championing the empowerment and professional advancement of migrant women in Australia. As the founder of Professional Migrant Women (PMW), she has significantly contributed to shaping the landscape of inclusive leadership within the community and the corporate sector.
Fabiola’s innovative approach to governance is centered around mentorship, training, and networking, providing migrant women with essential tools to enhance their careers and leadership skills in a new country. Her work has not only transformed individual lives but has also encouraged organisations to embrace more diverse and inclusive practices.
Natalie Suleyman, Minister for Youth, emphasised the profound impact of the awardees, highlighting their influence beyond their respective fields.
“The women we celebrate tonight are not just leaders in their fields but also role models for young people across Australia,”
she stated.
She acknowledged the significant contributions of multicultural women in shaping industries, communities, and future generations, reinforcing the importance of recognition and empowerment.
“Their journeys reflect the limitless potential of women in all sectors, and I am proud to be here to recognise their incredible achievements,”
she added.
Her speech underscored the inspiring legacy these women are creating, encouraging young Australians to aspire, lead, and break barriers across all industries.
Moving to the awards again.
11- Film, Fashion, and Beauty Icon Award
Mitu Bhowmik Lange
Mitu Bhowmik Lange, celebrated festival director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne and founder of Mind Blowing Films, is honoured with the Film, Fashion, and Beauty Icon Award for her extraordinary contributions to the cinema.
Her visionary leadership has not only elevated the festival to international acclaim but also bridged cultural divides through cinema. Under her direction, the festival has become a vibrant platform showcasing the richness of Indian cinema, fashion, and art, making significant impacts on the cultural landscape of Australia.
12- Retail Excellence Award
Suji Sanjeevan
Meet Suji Sanjeevan, a visionary entrepreneur whose journey in the world of fragrances has reshaped how we experience and connect with scents. As the co-founder of Light & Glo Designs Pty Ltd, an illustrious Australian fragrance house, Suji has masterfully blended sophistication and sustainability to revolutionize the industry.
Under her leadership, Light & Glo has emerged as a multi-award-winning entity known for its unique boutique fragrance products that are both nationally and internationally acclaimed.
13- Not-for-Profit Organisation of the Year Award –
STEM Sisters
STEM Sisters has become a beacon for advancing Women of Color in STEM through innovative programs and strong advocacy. This award-winning not-for-profit has broken down systemic barriers, providing mentorship, leadership training, and networking opportunities that bridge the employability gap for international women students.
Recognised with the Victorian International Education Excellence Industry Award, STEM Sisters excels in creating inclusive environments that foster career success for Women of Colour.
14- Entrepreneurship and Innovation Award
i- Jasmine Batra
Jasmine Batra stands at the forefront of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology, guiding Australian ventures into the expansive markets of India. With over a decade of experience, Jasmine’s expertise in scaling businesses internationally is unparalleled.
She has been a catalyst for startups and established enterprises, helping them commercialize their technologies and overcome the intricacies of cross-border expansion.
Her flagship initiative, the Big LEAP Accelerator Program, exemplifies her visionary approach. This program serves as a critical conduit between Australian innovation and the burgeoning tech economy of India.
ii- Krishna Sevak
Krishna Sevak, CEO of Sunrise2Sunrise recognized a significant opportunity to revolutionize the NDIS sector.
Founded in 2018, Sunrise2Sunrise has grown into a dynamic, innovative provider deeply committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families. Initially serving as Finance Director, Krishna’s strategic acumen and willingness to take calculated risks propelled the organization to substantial growth, achieving a client base of over 350 participants and a remarkable staff expansion to more than 700 by 2024.
15- Education Champion Award
Veena Nair
Veena Nair stands as a beacon in STEM education, inspiring a new generation through her commitment to innovative teaching methods. Recognized across Australia for her excellence, she has significantly enriched the educational landscape.
Notably, Veena has been honored with the prestigious PM Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools in 2022, highlighting her exceptional contributions to the field. She was also a finalist in the Commonwealth Bank Teaching Awards the same year, underscoring her influential role in educational excellence.
Further, her advocacy led to the recognition of VCE Systems Engineering as a bonus subject across all Victorian universities, an accolade bestowed upon her by the Design and Technology Teachers’ Association (DATTA) Australia, which named her ‘Teacher of the Year.’
16- Real Estate Leadership Award
Gitanjali Gadi
In a field where women in construction roles hover around just 12%, Gitanjali Gadi stands out not only for breaking into the industry but for excelling at an exceptionally young age.
At the helm of Panache Designer Homes, she has rapidly expanded the business, achieving an impressive turnover of over $20 million.
Gitanjali’s journey, from navigating the demands of motherhood with a toddler to steering her company to new heights, exemplifies her belief that with a solid dream, a clear action plan, and a supportive circle, any goal is attainable.
17- Finance Excellence Award
Meenakshi Bhayani
Meenakshi Bhayani stands as a paradigm of innovation in finance, bringing over 14 years of rich experience across various sectors to her role as Co-Founder and Principal Consultant at Creatick Group.
Recognised for her pioneering work in Fractional Project Management in Finance, Meenakshi has adeptly bridged critical gaps for SMEs, enhancing their financial literacy and operational efficiency. This unique model allows businesses to access high-level financial expertise cost-effectively, transforming their financial strategies and promoting sustainable growth.
Meenakshi’s foresight and strategic financial guidance have not only led to substantial business growth—with Creatick achieving a remarkable turnover—but have also empowered numerous SMEs to thrive in competitive markets.
18-Young Woman of the Year (Under 25 years)
i- Aayushi Khillan
Aayushi Khillan epitomizes the spirit of youth leadership and innovation, making significant strides in health advocacy, social enterprise, and educational reform—all before the age of 25.
Founder of the groundbreaking initiative Body Buddies, Aayushi creatively enhances health education through organ-shaped plush toys accompanied by educational resources, simplifying complex medical concepts for children. Her enterprise not only enlightens but also gives back, having donated substantial funds to support organ donation awareness
Beyond entrepreneurship, Aayushi’s influence extends into educational policy as the youngest board member of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority, where she advocates for inclusive health education. Her academic rigor shines through in her medical studies at the University of Melbourne, coupled with pivotal research aimed at improving pediatric pain management for conditions like cerebral palsy.
ii- Indian Youth Association of Victoria
IYAV is a dynamic, youth-led nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering community engagement, leadership development, and cultural unity among Indian Australian youth in Victoria.
Through a variety of initiatives, including food drives, social events, and leadership programs, IYAV provides a platform for young women to volunteer, lead, and build meaningful connections.
Their commitment to service is exemplified by regular community activities, such as food drives aimed at supporting those in need.
By organising events like “Sun n Stroll” and dodgeball tournaments, IYAV not only promotes physical well-being but also strengthens communal bonds. The association’s efforts have led to an expanded committee, reflecting their growing impact and the enthusiastic support from the community.
Renee Heath, MP, Shadow Assistant Multicultural Minister of Victoria, expressed her admiration for the achievements of the awardees, highlighting their role in shaping a more inclusive and united society.
“It is truly heartwarming to be part of an event that recognises the remarkable women who are making a difference in our multicultural communities,” she said.
She acknowledged the dedication and passion of these women, emphasizing how their contributions not only uplift their own communities but also enrich the broader Australian society.
“Their dedication and passion remind us of the power of diversity and the strength that comes from unity,”
she added
Her words underscored the significance of recognising and celebrating multicultural women, whose efforts continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations.
The event took a light-hearted turn when attendees joined in singing “Happy Birthday” for Renee Heath, adding warmth to the grand celebration.
The success of the event was made possible by sponsors including Life Insurance 4U, Cable Australia, SBI- Australia, Indian Wedding Decorators, 7 Rules Cyber, Blossom Hampers, and 3VIMA. Additionally, support came from the Consulate General of India, Melbourne; the Royal Thai Honorary Consulate; and the Consulate of Nepal, Victoria.
The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from co-founder Pallavi Jain, who acknowledged the unwavering support of sponsors and partners that made the event possible.
A moment to remember at The Australia Today International Women’s Day Awards. Minister for Women, Hon. Natalie Hutchins MP, stole the show as she hit the dance floor to the beats of “#KaliActivia” – celebrating the power, joy, and unstoppable spirit of women!
When the Minister for Women Brings the Energy! A moment to remember at The Australia Today International Women’s Day Awards!
With over 200 distinguished guests from across Australia, the awards night was a powerful reminder of the contributions women make across all sectors.
As attendees left with inspiration, connections, and a renewed sense of purpose, The Australia Today International Women’s Day Awards 2025 reaffirmed its place as a platform that honours, uplifts, and celebrates the achievements of multicultural women in Australia.
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