Bio: Heather Proud, QLD Winner 2019

Heather is one of our 2019 Leadership Competition winners. You can check out her winning entry here and her bio below.

Heather Proud

How old are you, what grade are you in and what community/town do you live in?
I am sixteen years old and I am in year 10. I live in Roma, Queensland.

Why did you enter Country to Canberra’s Leadership Competition?
I entered Country to Canberra because the opportunity available was too good not to! Leadership has always been an interest of mine, and learning from female leaders, whilst meeting many people with similar interests to me, as well as focusing on gender equality, sounded like the ultimate experience for myself.

What do you hope to get out of the Power Trip to Canberra?
When on the Power Trip to Canberra, I hope to learn many skills in leadership and presentation, and meet many new people and female leaders from around Australia. I would love to hear different peoples’ stories and ideas on the world’s pressing issues and develop my own knowledge further.

Who is your role model and why?
My biggest role model is Malala Yousifazi, because no matter how hard her fight with gender inequality became, she kept believing and never gave up. I also admire my hardworking mother and my incredibly generous Year Level Coordinator Miss Matthews, who both help me immensely and inspire me daily.

What’s your favourite thing about living in rural Australia
My favourite thing about life in rural Australia is the sense of community. Living in a small town, your neighbours, classmates, people from sports clubs, or even the post office lady become like second family, and are always there for you, which I think is very special.

What’s your favourite quote?
‘Do what you can, with what you have, where you are’ – Theodore Roosevelt

What’s your main goal or ambition (right now, or in the future)?
My main goal at the moment is being one of the school leaders of my school. My school has done so much for me and leading my peers has been a position I have wanted for a very long time. Beyond school, I would like to go to University and study in the health industry, where I can help people as a career.

Tell us a couple of things you do to relax or have fun?
In my free time, I like to spend time around our property with the animals, or spending time with friends. I also play violin and like to relax by playing a tune every now and then!

What are your social media handles?
Instagram: @hsproud1
Snapchat: @hsproud