The NSW Government is shining a spotlight on 31 exceptional women and girls whose leadership, resilience and community spirit have earned them a place as finalists in the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards.
Premier Chris Minns said every finalist reflects the strength and diversity of New South Wales.
“Each of these women and girls is changing lives not for recognition, but because they believe in lifting up their communities.”
Now in its 14th year, the awards recognise individuals from across the state who are improving lives, driving innovation, strengthening communities and inspiring the next generation. Winners across five categories will be announced at a gala ceremony at the International Convention Centre, Sydney, on Thursday 5 March, the flagship event of NSW Women’s Week 2026, which runs from 2 to 8 March.
Among this year’s standout finalists are Dr Mithila Zaheen, Shanvi Govinda Raju and Ruvi Pooliyadde, whose stories capture the breadth of impact being made by women and girls of all ages across New South Wales.
Dr Mithila Zaheen, a finalist for NSW Young Woman of the Year, is a cardiology advanced trainee, researcher and clinical lecturer committed to improving women’s cardiovascular health and access to healthcare for vulnerable communities.
Her PhD focuses on spontaneous coronary artery dissection, a rare heart condition that disproportionately affects women. Beyond the hospital and research lab, Dr Zaheen volunteers with Street Side Medics, the Water Well Project and Aboriginal and refugee support programs, delivering free healthcare and education to underserved communities. Her work has already earned statewide recognition, including being named AMA (NSW) Registrar of the Year in 2022.
At just 11 years old, Shanvi Govinda Raju, a finalist in The Ones to Watch category, is proving that age is no barrier to leadership. Since the age of seven, Shanvi has supported causes ranging from cancer research to children with incarcerated parents, organised book drives, and used her artwork to promote messages around environmental protection, peace and gender equality.
Proud of her language and cultural heritage, she encourages young people to embrace diversity, kindness and creativity as tools for change.
Fourteen-year-old Ruvi Pooliyadde, also recognised in The Ones to Watch category, has combined compassion with action through her ‘Poppy Flower’ project, crocheting and donating handmade poppies to support veterans and community organisations.
She has also authored a book on the history of the poppy flower to raise awareness and funds. Beyond Australia, Ruvi teaches English via Zoom to students in rural Sri Lanka through her ‘Sharing Knowledge’ initiative, while volunteering locally to help preschool children prepare for school.
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the 2026 awards attracted an extraordinary number of nominations.
“Our finalists come from all corners of the state, working across health, education, business, culture and community services. Their contribution enriches our communities and sets an example for girls and women everywhere.”
The full list of finalists spans categories including NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence, NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year, NSW Community Hero, NSW Regional Woman of the Year, NSW Young Woman of the Year and The Ones to Watch, highlighting achievements from Lane Cove to Dubbo and from the Northern Beaches to the Snowy Monaro.
The awards ceremony will be livestreamed, allowing communities across the state to celebrate the women and girls who are helping shape a more inclusive, compassionate and innovative New South Wales.
Support our Journalism
No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.
