The Country Education Foundation of Australia (CEF) honoured Katrina Norwood’s exceptional service and dedication to local youth by presenting her with the prestigious Katie Walker Outstanding Service Award.
Presented at the inaugural CEF Awards Dinner in Canberra, the peer-nominated award honours a CEF volunteer that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to providing life-changing education and training opportunities for their local youth.
Since 2012, Katrina has served as treasurer of the Shoalhaven Education Fund (SEF), playing a crucial role in supporting students. In addition to providing them with essential resources to succeed in their studies and training, she has also offered valuable mentorship, guidance, and overall support.
Previous students and SEF grant recipients Chloe Hadley and Mason Forrester were both glowing in their praise of Katrina, describing her as a thoroughly deserving recipient.
“From the get go, Katrina was kind and warm hearted and I could tell she was just one of those people who loves helping others,” Chloe said.
“Katrina just goes above and beyond what she is doing in her role at SEF. She makes sure the lives of people around her are a lot easier which is something so special and meaningful.”
Mason added, “I’ve known Katrina for a little over three years and honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am without her and I’m incredibly grateful for everything she’s done, especially because she volunteers – it’s an incredible thing that she does.”
Katrina said she was blown away by this acknowledgement.
“Very humbling, but to be recognised by your peers is a wonderful feeling,” she said.
“When I was younger, I didn’t attend university because I couldn’t afford to go. I just want to make it as easy as possible for young people to have the best opportunities for a good, quality education.”
CEF CEO Wendy Mason paid tribute to Katrina, describing her as a wonderful volunteer and role model.
“On top of the ongoing support Katrina provides to students in the Shoalhaven region, she selflessly devotes an extraordinary amount of her personal time each week to assisting the foundation in a variety of important ways including fundraising activities, administration, being part of interview panels and much more,” Ms Mason said.
“Katrina is well respected by her peers and students for her tireless work ethic and compassion, and her exceptional service is making a meaningful difference in the lives of countless young people each year.”
Find out how you can volunteer for a local CEF foundation here.
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