Hannah is one of our 2018 Leadership Competition winners. You can check out her winning entry here and her bio below.
Describe yourself in 80 words or less.
My name is Hannah Bowden and I am 16 years old. Born in Perth, I grew up on a farm and attended primary school in Beverley, Western Australia before moving to Busselton at the beginning of high school. I would describe myself as outgoing, friendly and driven. I love playing sport, travelling and learning about cultures and languages from around the world.
How old are you, what grade are you in and what community/town do you live in?
I am 16 years old and currently in Year 11. I live in Busselton, Western Australia.
Why did you enter Country to Canberra’s Leadership Competition?
I entered Country to Canberra’s Leadership Competition because I believe it is an invaluable opportunity to increase my open-mindedness, adaptability, leadership skills and knowledge of different career pathways.
What do you hope to get out of the Power Trip to Canberra?
I hope to form connections with people who have similar interests, learn from other people’s experiences and develop new skills applicable in my later career. I am especially looking forward to the Canberra ‘Powerful Women’s Breakfast’ which I hope will enable me to speak with and learn from women in a variety of industries on how they have achieved their goals.
Who is your role model and why?
I have an amazing family and I look up especially to my parents who have always worked hard to give my brothers and I incredible opportunities and supported us to achieve our goals. I also greatly admire Malala Yousafzai, who is achieving an incredible amount in her advocacy for human rights and equal education opportunities for men and women.
What’s your favourite thing about living in rural Australia?
My favourite thing about living in rural Australia is the strong sense of community and support. I enjoyed growing up in the Wheatbelt – which had plenty of space to explore as a kid – and now in the South West I enjoy the relaxed lifestyle and stunning beaches.
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about human rights and providing education opportunities for all people. I am also passionate about educating people on human rights, and the responsibilities that each of us have – to respect the rights of others. I believe our world can change for the better by promoting respect and open-mindedness, because if we act with respect and understanding in everyday interactions, we reduce discrimination based on gender, religion, ethnicity, age etc. at an individual level.
What’s your favourite quote?
My favourite quote is; “Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what is takes to sit down and listen.”- Winston Churchill. I like this quote because it shows that to make a real difference in the world you must be able to voice your own ideas, but also listen to other peoples’ ideas as well.
What’s your main goal/ambition right now? (80 words max)
My main goal/ambition is to graduate from Year 12 next year then go to university studying International Relations. I hope to work as a diplomat in the future, maybe one day within the United Nations.
Tell us a couple of things you do to relax/have fun?
I am very keen on netball and tennis and I like going to the beach and water-skiing. I enjoy reading and cooking and I absolutely love to travel.
How do people stay in touch with you?
People can email me at fainsworthbowden@bigpond.com.