By ANEEKA SIMONIS
A WOMAN making things happen in Cardinia Shire is Abiola Ajetomobi, who said she was “truly humbled” to be recognised at an International Women’s Day award ceremony.
Abiola, who manages Pakenham’s crisis relief centre 4Cs while juggling studies and family life, was awarded the Future Leader title from Women’s Health in the South East (WHISE).
“I was really shocked by the news as I didn’t think I could be the overall winner,” Abiola said.
“I know there are many extraordinary women within the three municipalities that are exceptionally brilliant at what they do, so I was quite happy with just being a nominee.
“It’s such a great feeling to know that some people in the community identified my leadership capability and obviously saw something in me.”
The Nigeria-born crisis relief worker said she and her family migrated to Australia six years ago.
It wasn’t an easy journey getting to where she is today, but she has made it her life mission to help others as people have helped her.
“It’s been a hard road, from scouting to living in a rundown house to working at night full-time and studying during the day full-time. I wasn’t easy. Lots of sacrifices have been made,” she said.
“But someone somewhere became a point of light for myself and family and helped us in our settlement and calling Australia home. Being able to help others now it’s a great privilege.”
WHISE CEO Susan Glasgow presented awards to 29 women in the south-eastern area at the award event, themed Make it Happen.
4Cs Chaplain Kirsten Hampson described Abiola’s commitment to helping individuals and families in crisis as “amazing”.
“She is an incredible person with an amazing heart to help people in the community,” she said.
“Every client that walks through the door is different in terms of need and Abiola is always looking outside the box to try help them however they need.”
