2023 Volunteer Manager of the Year Awards – Highlights

The Volunteer Manager of the Year Awards is held annually to recognise and celebrate volunteer managers in the Canberra region. It is held in connection with International Volunteer Managers Day, celebrated on 5 November. This year’s ceremony was held during the Volunteer Leaders Seminar on Thursday 2 November 2023 at Ann Harding Conference Centre. 

VolunteeringACT sends a special thank you to all the individuals and organisations that submitted their nominations for the 2023 Volunteer Manager of the Year Awards, Canberra region. 

Congratulations to all nominees put forth for the 2023 Volunteer Manager of the Year Awards, and thank you for the work you do.

Many successful volunteering experiences are made possible thanks to the leadership and support of volunteer managers. This year, International Volunteer Managers Day’s theme is “Helping Others Help”. It is important to remember that this celebration not only honours paid professional volunteer managers but also acknowledges all those who lead volunteers in their own time or as part of a broader job.  

2023 Volunteer Managers of the Year

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2023 Volunteer Manager of the Year Excellence in Best Practice

Beth Garwood 

Beth leads the Mental Illness Education ACT (MIEACT) volunteer program, emphasising sharing personal experiences in educational sessions with schools and the Canberra community. Beth’s significant contribution includes training volunteers from numerous community organisations to effectively convey their experiences, driving change in policy, programs, and within organisations.
Beth’s notable dedication to each volunteer’s wellbeing reflects their genuine passion for leadership and volunteering.

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2023 Volunteer Manager of the Year Excellence in Inclusion 

Sahana Sehgal 

Sahana leads a dynamic team of over 100 volunteers who contribute their time and skills to host 30 distinct in language programs every week. Yet, her role as Station Manager transcends the ordinary; she creates an environment where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated.
Her commitment and dedication serve as a beacon of hope, motivating us all to embrace diversity and foster inclusivity in the Canberra community.

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2023 Volunteer Manager of the Year Highly Commended Recipients 

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2023 Volunteer Manager of the Year Highly Commended 

Lynn Bloomfield and Di Zivkovich

Together, Lynn and Di guide and uplift a remarkable community of over 250 active volunteers dedicated to Roundabout Canberra.
Their exceptional contributions have elevated Roundabout’s volunteer support program. They have enhanced the volunteer induction process, formalised policies, and, above all, fostered a culture where every volunteer feels genuinely welcome and fully supported.

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2023 Volunteer Manager of the Year Highly Commended 

Jan Lee

Jan Lee of Capital Nordic Walking has also been named the 2023 Highly Commended Volunteer Manager of the Year.
Jan’s role as a volunteer coordinator for CNW’s Community Outreach program is transformative, offering crucial support for individuals seeking to enhance their mobility, coordination, and balance.

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