Tomaree Business Chamber President Leah Anderson will encourage others to give generously to the community in her year as Port Stephens Local Woman of the Year.
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“I’m a mother of two, self-employed but I find time to work in the community because its important,” she said.
“I would like to encourage more people – men and women – to get involved.”
Port Stephens MP Kate Washington nominated Ms Anderson for the award that coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8.
Ms Anderson was for two years president of Nelson Bay Town Management when in 2010 it was merged with the chamber. She took up that role as Westpac branch manager.
Two years later Ms Anderson founded Port Stephens Women in Business. Soon after she became president of Salamander Bay Rotary (2013-14).
In December 2017 she replaced the mayor Ryan Palmer as new president of the business chamber.
“Every time you give something back to the community it fulfills a need that otherwise isn’t met, or that requires someone else to work even harder,” Ms Anderson said.
“It’s important that our children see us involved in the community and get involved with their parents, so they can learn and grow.”
Ms Anderson remains an active member of Salamander Bay Rotary Club which raises desperately needed funds for local community groups including Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services, the Yacaaba Centre, the Port Stephens Women’s Cancer Support Group and the Tomaree Breast Cancer Support Group.
“I was delighted to present Leah Anderson with the 2018 Port Stephens Local Woman of the Year award. Leah is a successful and accomplished business leader in Port Stephens who has worked over many years to support our community and empower local businesswomen in particular,” Ms Washington said.
“This annual award recognises the important work of women across NSW in a variety of fields, from charities to businesses and community groups. Leah ticks every box.”
Ms Washington said the award was well-deserved recognition for her enormous contribution to business and her ongoing commitment to the community.
“Not only is Leah an accomplished business woman, she also gives her time generously to support community initiatives. Through her hard work and compassion for others, Leah’s already made a big difference in our area, and I have no doubt that she will continue to do so,” Ms Washington said.