mmg.com.au

The work of two Cobram women has been honoured at an International Women’s Day celebration.

Eman Al Abbassi was awarded Moira Shire Council’s Woman of the Year for helping members of the refugee community to resettle in the area.

Eman is a fervent educator of Arabic language and culture at a language school based at Cobram Secondary College on Saturdays and was one of four Victorians chosen to participate in the Endeavour Language Teacher Fellowship Study Program study tour of Abu Dhabi.

She is regularly invited to speak at organisations such as the Centre for Excellence in Rural Sexual Health, and is a recognised community leader representative for the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

Ellen Pye was awarded Young Woman of the Year, recognising her various leadership roles including global leader for World Vision and junior show ambassador and her involvement in school events and her community.

More than 150 women came together to celebrate in Numurkah on Friday. The event included performances by the Numurkah Primary School choir, Jade Connolly and Ella Sprunt.

Guest speaker, Numurkah District Health chief executive Jacque Phillips spoke about her role and the various challenges she has faced.

Nathalia artist Veronica Pritchard Kelly shared her experiences working to reduce vandalism in schools in Melbourne and the positive role art can have on youth.

‘‘It was fantastic to be able to bring women of all ages and from all walks of life together to celebrate the achievements of women in Moira Shire,’’ Deputy Mayor Wendy Buck said.

People were asked to donate $5 on entry which was used to donate $200 to Cobram Community House, Nathalia Community House, YNH Services Inc and Numurkah Community Learning Centre. The donation will assist a female studying through the Community House who has overcome hurdles to further her studies.