To celebrate Women in League Round, the Parramatta Eels held the inaugural Rising Women of Western Sydney Forum in partnership with Parramatta City Council.
The event brought together leaders from corporate, government and non-for-profit sectors to discuss critical issues facing Australian society today, with a particular focus on raising the social and emotional wellbeing of the Western Sydney community.
Over 100 guests heard from expert panellists on topics directly aligned with the Parramatta Eels Social Impact Strategy, including empowering future leaders, collaborative efforts for women’s safety and mental health in sports and community.
Dr Rhonda Itaoui from Western Sydney University presented the keynote address, Strength in Diversity: Women Leading the Future of Western Sydney. She outlined barriers preventing females, particularly from multicultural backgrounds, from attaining leadership positions and the importance of elevating their voices to diversify and strengthen business impact.
Forum panellists included:
- Gail Connolly, CEO City of Parramatta
- Rachael Pearson, Parramatta Eels NRLW & NSW State of Origin Player
- Sam Squires, Fox Sports Presenter and Author
- Dr Hannah Tonkin, Women’s Safety Commissioner
- Rev Geoff Smith, Lead Minister Parramatta Mission
- Dr Billy Garvey, Developmental Paediatrician & Host of Pop Culture Parenting Podcast
- Dee Raquel Joma, Founder of Be Unstoppable
- Kennedy Cherrington, Parramatta Eels NRLW Player & Mental Health Advocate
- Shaun Lane, Parramatta Eels NRL Player & Mental Health Advocate
In addition to the forum, the Parramatta Eels hosted over 200 junior female participants at the Parra Play Girls Only event on The Green at Parramatta North.
The event celebrated Women in League Round as the next generation of female players rubbed shoulders with Eels NRLW stars Rachael Pearson, Elsie Albert and Ruby-Jean Kennard.
The Rising Women of Western Sydney Forum has been highly praised by guests and panellists for its innovative content and ability to align key organisations to make meaningful change in the local community.
