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 the current Chair of our Board, 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.

Hannah led Country to Canberra as CEO for over 6 years to win multiple awards and grow 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.

Young woman wearing a hijab holding a sign which states "I love country to canberra because... it motivates and inspires young women to be the change they want to see!"

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.

— Increasing Participation in Decision-Making

To encourage more young rural women to participate in leadership and decision-making in their chosen field, whether it be politics, primary industries, business, education or any other avenue.

Our Values

Equality

We support and promote gender equality.

Respect

We respect one another, and the strength of rural Australia

Solidarity

We support and lift up girls, young women, and women.

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

Download a copy of our Organisation Structure as at March 2020 (504 KB, PDF)