About Us
What we do
Country to Canberra is empowering young rural women to reach their leadership potential. Founded in 2014, our award-winning not-for-profit runs nationwide programs that provide education, leadership and mentorship opportunities to regional, rural and remote teenage girls. We are a leading voice for young women, and are committed to strengthening rural communities into the future.
— Our Mission
To empower young rural women to reach their leadership potential.
— Our Motivation
Distance, time and funding barriers can isolate rural and remote students from education & career opportunities. Pairing this with Australia’s gender pay gap, gender-based violence, unconscious bias, and the underrepresentation of women in politics, primary industries and business leadership, it’s clear that young rural women face significant challenges as they strive toward their goals.
— Our Beginnings
Country to Canberra was founded in April 2014 by CEO, Hannah Wandel. Hannah grew up on a farm in South Australia, and although she loved her local community, she recognised that there were additional challenges faced by rural and remote students. Further, as a gender equality advocate, she was determined to increase leadership opportunities for young women and girls. In four years, Country to Canberra has won multiple awards and has grown to encompass a national volunteer team, four incredible programs, multiple sponsorship deals, and importantly, has positively influenced dozens of bright young women to reach their potential.
Our Strategic Priorities
— Empower Future Leaders
To empower young rural women (between 13-18) living in regional, rural and remote Australia to pursue leadership opportunities at school and within their community, by providing skill-building, networking and education opportunities, and by inspiring self-belief.
— Gender Equality
To actively work to achieve gender equality, by increasing youth discourse and awareness about gender equality issues in rural Australia, and by targeting our programs to improve gender equality outcomes.
— Mentorship
To facilitate and offer mentorship and sponsorship opportunities to young rural women to build their skills, networks and capacities.
— Opportunities
To build career networks, increase self-belief and provide ‘resume booster’ opportunities for rural and remote girls.
— Politics, Primary Industries and Executive
To encourage more young rural women to participate pursue careers in local, state and federal politics or aim for leadership roles in their chosen field, whether it be primary industries, business, education or another.
Our Values
Equality
We support and promote gender equality.
Respect
We respect one another, & the strength of rural Australia
Solidarity
We support and lift up other women and girls.
Inclusion
We are inclusive and respectful of all people, cultures, religions and backgrounds.
Excellence
We aspire and encourage you to be the best version of yourself.
Organisation Chart
