Third Sector sits down with Katrina Cox, Relationship Manager at Westpac, to find out why the Community Leader Awards are so important for the sector.

TS:Why are you so proud to be involved with this initiative?

KC: I am a strong supporter of the social sector and Westpac’s Community Leader Awards.

Having the opportunity to be actively involved in these awards, reading through the nominations, has deepened my understanding of the different NFP organisations and the fantastic work they are involved in. It’s great to have an avenue to award Australia’s community leaders for their commitment to the sector.

There are many people out there doing amazing things in their local communities – these awards provide the opportunity to put them in the spotlight.

TS: In your opinion, what are the key traits of a standout community leader?

KC:Standout community leaders take responsibility for the improvement of their communities. They are committed to their cause and they care about others showing them the way with courage and persistence.

Great community leaders are flexible, creative and ready to come up with new solutions. Highly confident leaders, they are driven by socially focused values and respect for all human beings by working as a team and in partnership to achieve goals.

TS: What advice would you give to a Third Sector reader who is considering making a nomination the Community Leaders Awards?

This is your opportunity to highlight someone who you feel has made a difference in your local community.

You may even be a community leader and are too shy to nominate yourself. Go ahead, take hold of your dreams and highlight the work that is meaningful to you.

Don’t be shy – tell us your story of a community leader who has gone above and beyond.

About the awards

Winning entries will be awarded with $5,000 for their community organisation, financial management training courses from the Davidson Institute valued at $5,000 for their community organisation, and a Westpac MasterCard gift card preloaded with $500 as a personal reward.

Nominations close on 30 September 2013.