Blackmans Bay resident Sarah De Jonge has been selected as this year’s Tasmanian AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award winner for her 1000 Hearts project.
Sarah set up 1000 Hearts back in February 2016, hand-stitching hearts to give away for free as random acts of kindness.
1000 Hearts has grown to be a global movement, offering kindness and hope in a tangible, pocket-sized package.
As the winner of the Tasmanian award, Sarah will receive a $15,000 grant from Westpac, will complete a professional development training course and attend a three-day Australian Institute of Company Directors Course with other state and territory winners.
Sarah will also represent Tasmania at the National Awards in September.
“I feel delighted and honoured to have won the Rural Women’s Award for Tasmania, especially given the high calibre of women included in the finalists,” Sarah said.
“They are all doing wonderful work in Tasmania and are each unique and inspiring.
“It makes me so happy that the award has recognised the impact and importance of kindness, self-compassion and community, and I am proud to be a spokesperson for kindness in this way.
“The funding I receive through the award will allow me to develop a leadership and project management course for emerging leaders in rural communities, who will learn new skills and have the experience of running a community project based around making and sharing eco-friendly pocket hearts for kindness.”
Minister for Primary Industries and Water Jane Howlett congratulated Sarah De Jonge on winning the award.
“Ms De Jonge’s background in psychology and counselling and her experience in the non-for-profit sector has been a driving force behind the 1000 Hearts project,” Minister Howlett said.
“This award recognises how engaging in creative activities can enhance social wellbeing and community spirit, especially in times of uncertainty and challenge.
“I would also like to congratulate the three other Tasmanian finalists for the incredible work they are doing in their fields.”
Toni Coward from Port Sorell received the Tasmanian Women in Agriculture Encouragement Award for her Sheila May Swim project which creates swimwear and promotes confidence in women through community connection.
This award includes a $2000 grant for professional development.
The Tasmanian Women in Agriculture Development Awards went to Christina Giudici for her The New Black Biochar project which makes biochar from waste products and to Filipa Bellette for her virtual holistic health practise, Chris & Filly Functional Medicine.
Each recipient will receive a grant of $1000 for professional development.
