Sunita Kotnala, the 2025 Canberra Citizen of the Year, is the driving force behind Women’s Shed Canberra, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering women through hands-on home repair and maintenance workshops. Established in 2020, Women’s Shed Canberra has grown significantly, now having a permanent home in Greenway where it offers a variety of workshops focused on skill-building and mental health for women of all backgrounds.
Participants in Women’s Shed workshops have the opportunity to learn skills such as carpentry, woodworking, using power tools, and DIY projects. The workshops cover a wide range of topics, from building a picture frame to installing and replacing door locks, inspiring some women to consider pursuing careers in construction and building trades.
One of the key aspects of Women’s Shed Canberra is its role in creating a supportive community for women to meet, develop new skills, and build together. Women from diverse backgrounds and abilities are welcome to participate, with some members staying active over time while others come and go as they acquire the skills they need.
To increase access to its services, Women’s Shed Canberra introduced a mobile service in 2023, reducing transport barriers for participants. In recognition of its impact, the organization received an ACT Social Enterprise Grant in 2024, enabling it to establish a permanent location in Greenway to further expand its reach and impact.
Sunita expressed her pride in receiving the Canberra Citizen of the Year Award, emphasizing the importance of women’s sheds as social enterprises that provide valuable skills in building trades and home repairs. She highlighted the joy and empowerment women experience after learning to use power tools in a safe environment, noting how these skills can enhance their daily lives and foster new interests and connections.
The Canberra Citizen of the Year Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the community, promoting civic pride and celebrating their positive impact on Canberra. Sunita’s journey from a skilled migrant to a community leader exemplifies the transformative power of skills development and social engagement in empowering individuals and building stronger communities.
Through Women’s Shed Canberra, Sunita has not only helped women acquire practical skills but has also created a space for them to connect, learn, and grow together. The workshops offered by the organization have far-reaching effects, inspiring women to explore new opportunities and develop a sense of independence and self-reliance.
As Women’s Shed Canberra continues to expand and evolve, it serves as a beacon of empowerment and inclusivity, demonstrating the transformative potential of community-based initiatives in fostering personal growth and social cohesion. Sunita’s dedication and leadership exemplify the spirit of service and empowerment that drives positive change and uplifts individuals and communities alike.
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