Empowering Women Through Women’s Shed Workshops in Canberra
Women’s Shed Canberra CEO, Sunita Kotnala, has been recognized as the 2025 Canberra Citizen of the Year, highlighting her dedication to empowering women across the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Sunita’s leadership has been instrumental in the success of Women’s Shed Canberra, a social enterprise that provides valuable skills and a sense of community to women in the region.
Driving Force Behind Women’s Shed Canberra
- Sunita Kotnala, as the CEO of Women’s Shed Canberra, has been at the forefront of empowering women since the organization’s establishment in 2020.
- The enterprise has grown significantly over the years and now has a permanent home in Greenway, offering a range of workshops and programs.
- Women’s Shed Canberra focuses on hands-on home repair and maintenance workshops, aimed at skill-building and promoting mental health among women of diverse backgrounds.
Workshop Offerings and Impact
Women who participate in Women’s Shed workshops have the opportunity to learn a variety of skills, including carpentry, woodworking, using power tools, and DIY techniques. The workshops cover a wide range of topics, from basic tasks like building a picture frame to more complex projects like installing and replacing door locks. Additionally, some participants have been inspired to pursue careers in construction and building trades as a result of their experiences at Women’s Shed Canberra.
Creating a Supportive Community
- Women’s Shed Canberra serves as a space where women from all walks of life can meet, be inspired, develop new skills, and collaborate on various projects.
- The organization welcomes women over the age of 18, with some members remaining active in the community while others join to acquire specific skills and move on.
Expanding Access and Growth
In an effort to increase accessibility to its services, Women’s Shed Canberra introduced a mobile workshop service in 2023, which has been instrumental in breaking down transportation barriers for participants. The organization also received an ACT Social Enterprise Grant in 2024, further supporting its growth and sustainability. With its permanent location in Greenway, Women’s Shed Canberra is poised to expand its reach and impact in the future.
Recognition and Reflection
Upon receiving the Canberra Citizen of the Year Award, Sunita Kotnala expressed her pride in the recognition and highlighted the importance of women’s sheds as social enterprises that contribute to the circular economy. She emphasized the joy and empowerment that women experience through learning valuable skills and using power tools in a safe environment. Sunita’s personal journey as a skilled migrant to Australia has shaped her commitment to social development and her passion for restoration and refurbishment, which in turn has enriched the lives of women in the community.
Canberra Citizen of the Year Award
The Canberra Citizen of the Year Award celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to the Canberra community, fostering a sense of civic pride and recognition for their efforts. The award serves as a reminder of the positive impact that dedicated individuals like Sunita Kotnala have on their communities.
FAQs
What is the Women’s Shed Canberra?
Women’s Shed Canberra is a social enterprise that offers hands-on home repair and maintenance workshops for women, focusing on skill-building and mental health support.
How can women benefit from participating in Women’s Shed workshops?
Women who participate in Women’s Shed workshops have the opportunity to learn valuable skills such as carpentry, woodworking, and using power tools, which can empower them to take on DIY projects and even consider careers in construction and building trades.
How has Women’s Shed Canberra expanded its services?
Women’s Shed Canberra introduced a mobile workshop service in 2023 to increase accessibility for participants, and received an ACT Social Enterprise Grant in 2024 to support its growth and development.
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