![]() Building on our celebration of International Women's Day, we shine a spotlight on the transformative power of strong female mentors through the inspiring journey of Danie Zappa, a proud Noongar Wardandi woman and a trailblazing leader in our community. Danie Zappa's career is a testament to the profound impact that mentorship can have on personal and professional growth. With a Bachelor of Social Science in Indigenous Services from ECU, Danie has always been driven by a deep understanding and appreciation of her Aboriginal community, culture, and history. Her journey began in the Australian Public Service, where she spent 17 years working in various roles, including Indigenous Cultural Awareness Facilitation, mentoring, technical training, and leadership. Throughout her career, Danie has been guided by strong female mentors who have played a pivotal role in shaping her leadership style and career trajectory. One of her lifelong mentors has been a constant source of honest feedback and support for over 30 years. Her guidance has been instrumental in helping Danie navigate the challenges of her career and personal life, providing her with the strength and resilience to overcome obstacles and achieve her goals. Another significant mentor in Danie's life is Jahna Cedar, who has been a champion of career succession and planning. Jahna's mentorship has helped Danie develop the skills and confidence needed to excel in her roles and take on new challenges. Julie Hillier, another mentor, has provided invaluable leadership and life skills, creating a reciprocal relationship where both have learned from each other. Danie's leadership style is deeply influenced by these strong female mentors, compelled by the instinct to pay it forward. She values honest feedback and continuous learning, which she incorporates into her own mentoring relationships. Danie is passionate about the importance of having more First Nations people in leadership roles and is committed to making a difference by promoting gender equality and cultural diversity. As we celebrate International Women's Day, we recognise the importance of strong female mentors in empowering women to achieve their full potential. Danie Zappa's journey is a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated and passionate mentors can have on their mentees, fostering a culture of support, growth, and empowerment. Comments are closed.
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