Maddi Powell Wins Zonta Award for Women's Space

We’re delighted to share some wonderful news from our team at Fletcher Street Cottage. Maddi Powell, Assistant Manager and Community Support Worker, has been recognised with the Zonta Award – Young Women in Leadership for the Northern Rivers.

This prestigious award celebrates young women who demonstrate outstanding leadership in their community. Maddi’s commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces for women experiencing domestic violence, homelessness and financial insecurity has been recognised as a shining example of leadership in action.

Zonta Northern Rivers President, Bobbi Crane, said:

“I congratulate you on your winning entry which demonstrated so brilliantly your exceptional leadership in addressing issues affecting women in the local area.”

Reflecting on the award, Maddi shared:

“I am deeply honoured to receive the Zonta Women in Business Leadership Award for the Northern Rivers. Since I was a young girl, I have felt a strong calling to support vulnerable women. At 19, I travelled overseas to work in a women’s home in India, an experience that lit a fire in my heart and shaped the path I continue to walk today.

Now, I am grateful to work alongside an incredible team at Fletcher Street Cottage, who share the same passion and commitment to supporting women in our community. Growing Women’s Space has been a privilege, but the true heroes are the women who show up every day in the face of enormous challenges. They are my greatest teachers, and they inspire me each day.”

Maddi’s entry will now progress to the next stage of the Zonta International Women in Business Leadership Award, with results announced later this year.

This recognition is not only a celebration of Maddi’s dedication, but also of the collective spirit of Fletcher Street Cottage. It highlights the way community care and leadership go hand-in-hand, making a tangible difference in the lives of local women and families.