Call for nominations for the 2026 Andy Lynch, Hanson Mataskelekele and Mildred Sope International Women’s Day Awards
We are pleased to announce that the Australian High Commission in partnership with the Mataskelekele, Lynch and Sope families will be running another round of our prestigious International Women’s Day Awards in 2026. The Hanson Mataskelekele Award for Women in Leadership, the Andy Lynch Award for Excellence in the Community Sector and the Mildred Sope Award for Creative Storytelling will be presented at the 2026 International Women’s Day event.
We are now inviting members of the public to nominate outstanding women for the three awards to mark International Women’s Day 2026.
These awards are a joint initiative of the Mataskelekele, Lynch and Sope families and the Australian High Commission in Vanuatu to recognize the contribution and leadership of women in public life, community, creative arts, and society.
The Andy Lynch Award for Excellence in the Community Sector
Mrs Andy Lynch was a strong advocate for equality especially for people living with disabilities.
Members of the public are invited to nominate women who have demonstrated commitment to building stronger, more inclusive, and sustainable communities in Vanuatu.
Nomination Question:
In what ways has the nominee made a positive contribution in their community, including to help improve the lives of others?
The Hanson Mataskelekele Award for Women in Leadership
Mrs Hanson Mataskelekele was a teacher and former first lady who advanced women’s rights, education, women’s leadership and helped other women reach their potential.
For this award, members of the public are invited to nominate women who have demonstrated ongoing strong leadership skills.
Nomination Question:
How has the nominee demonstrated strong leadership skills and what has been their positive impact on others and/or community?
The Mildred Sope Award for Creative Storytelling
Mrs Mildred Sope was a teacher, women rights and political advocate and published poet.
The public is invited to nominate women who have used creative mediums to raise awareness on issues important to Vanuatu society.
Nomination Question:
How has the nominee’s creative storytelling contributed to Vanuatu and raised awareness on important issues affecting society?
How to Submit Your Nomination
Submissions should include nominees full name, their contact details and answer the key questions for the relevant award. Answers to the nomination question of your chosen award should be no more than 600 words. Please include a photo of the nominee and gain the nominee’s permission for the Australian High Commission to use their image in media and social media.
Send your submission to the Public Affairs Team at the Australian High Commission either in writing to P.O. Box 111, Port Vila, or via email to [email protected]
For any questions, please call 22777.
Nominations for all three awards close on Friday 13 February 2026.