Local business owner Poonam Singh, who is dedicated to supporting and empowering local women, has been named the Brimbank citizen of the year.
Twelve months after being a finalist in the award, Ms Singh was announced the winner on Thursday at Brimbank council’s award ceremony.
The council recognised Ms Singh as citizen of the year and Kayla Parker as the young citizen of the year.
The awards recognise the exceptional contributions, hard work, and determination of individuals making a positive difference within Brimbank.
As a respected community leader, Poonam is dedicated to supporting and empowering local women while breaking down gender barriers as a bus driver.
“Poonam is an inspiring leader for the local Indian community who prioritises others and is ever eager to assist, motivate and support others,” the council said in announcing the winners.
“She is held in high regard amongst women in Brimbank for the work she does with her own organisation and others in Brimbank.
“Despite her busy schedule, Poonam continues to lead a non-profit group that helps local women, in particular migrant women.
“She is the founder and director of Women of Brimbank, a non-profit organisation with over 50 members.
“She also lends support to numerous other organisations in Brimbank, including Kororoit Creek, SCATS, and Polish clubs.”
Ms Singh has also provided safe spaces for women, taught skills to women from Third-world nations, and assisted victims of domestic violence.
Ms Singh shares her community spirit with her daughter Devika Chaudhary, who was Brimbank young citizen of the year in 2022.
Ms Parker is involved with St John Ambulance, the Western Bulldogs’ leadership program and her local school community.
She suffers from a rare form of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and has spent many years raising awareness about the disorder.
“Kayla is confident, compassionate, and always willing to stand up for the underdog,” the council said in announcing the award.
“She is determined to make the world a better place and is willing to put herself out there to help others.
“After completing her 200 voluntary service hours with St John Ambulance, Kayla was recently promoted to senior leader.
“She also teaches younger cadets all about their role and first aid.
“She has helped set up many programs aimed at the local youth community to promote student wellbeing, equality and provide a safe platform for students to raise issues with the school staff.“
Ms Parker has also been involved in the Brimbank council youth leadership program over the past few years.
Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire congratulated both award winners.
“Council is pleased to publicly acknowledge the people who make a valuable and selfless contribution
to our community.
“These awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the individuals working tirelessly to make Brimbank a wonderful place to live, work in and visit.”
The awards ceremony was also a special occasion for 200 residents who became Australian citizens.
