Bio: Imogen McDonald, NSW Winner 2019

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

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 12. I live in Inverell, NSW.

Why did you enter Country to Canberra’s Leadership Competition?Gender equality has always been one of my biggest passions and when I discovered the Country to Canberra Competition, I knew I couldn’t overlook such an incredible opportunity to voice this passion, learn new skills, meet inspiring leaders and connect with other young people with similar aspirations. 

What do you hope to get out of the Power Trip to Canberra?
I hope to learn effective skills which will enable me to utilise my passions to make a difference and inspire other young, female leaders. I am excited to make life-long connections and for the invaluable opportunities of this trip to further fuel my motivations and goals for the future!

Who is your role model and why?
One of my biggest role models at the moment is Margaret Atwood. Amongst many things, she’s an environmental activist and a feminist. Her works are honest and raw and refuse to ignore the problems we face in society today, often holding the readers accountable. She never backs away from what she believes in.

What’s your favourite thing about living in rural Australia?
One of the best things about living in rural Australia is the ability of small, close-knit, communities to come together through times of hardship or adversity; encouraging and inspiring each other to get through challenges, particularly the drought at the present time.

What’s your favourite quote?
‘Girls should never be afraid to be smart.’ – Emma Watson.

What’s your main goal or ambition (right now, or in the future)?
At the moment, my primary focus is on making the most of my last year of high school and working hard to receive the highest atar I can, as well as participating in amazing opportunities like this one to provide me with the necessary skills and the foundation to achieve my goals. I hope to study Law and International Relations and travel the world working as a human rights lawyer, making a difference to the lives of many.

Tell us a couple of things you do to relax or have fun?
In my free time I love spending time with my friends and my family, I play the flute and I’m currently completing my last ballet exam. I also enjoy reading, swimming, listening to music and travelling!

What are your social media handles?
Instagram- @imogenzoe_