On the morning of Tuesday 29 April, YWCA Canberra proudly hosted its annual Great Ydeas Innovation Breakfast, bringing together community leaders, advocates, and changemakers to celebrate the outstanding recipients of the 2025 Great Ydeas Small Grants Program.
Established in 2010 to mark YWCA Canberra’s 80th anniversary, the Great Ydeas Small Grants Program has empowered over 95 women and girls in the ACT to transform their ideas into action. From launching podcasts and running empowerment programs for girls to establishing social enterprises and leading public campaigns, this program continues to foster innovation and drive tangible change across the region.
“The Great Ydeas Small Grants is a powerful reminder of the determination of local girls and women. These grants don’t just fund ideas; they unlock potential and help build a more inclusive, equitable Canberra,” said Frances Crimmins, YWCA Canberra CEO
This year, YWCA Canberra fully funded the program with a dedicated $9,000 grants pool, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the leadership, creativity, and vision of local girls and women.
At the celebratory breakfast, the recipients of the 2025 Great Ydeas grant were revealed, showcasing their exceptional, forward-thinking initiatives.
The first recipient, Isabel Richards, was recognised for her podcast Sci_Burst. This next-generation science communication platform blends research, entertainment, and pop culture to make science more accessible, inclusive, and engaging for diverse audiences.
Angelina Inthavong was the second recipient for her Sexual Health and Reproductive Equity Campaign (SHARE). This national, youth-led initiative advocates for universal access to contraception, tackling the financial and systemic barriers to reproductive justice through bold advocacy, public education, and grassroots mobilisation.
The third recipient, Otgondalai Byambasuren, was celebrated for her The Dancing Queen Project. This initiative fosters connection and cultural pride among Mongolian women in Canberra through traditional dance, promoting mental health, community support, and the strengthening of cultural identity.
Finally, Kate Buerckner was awarded for Weaving Wonders, a project that brings Indigenous Dreamtime stories to life through handcrafted woven animals. This initiative enriches early childhood education across Australia by providing young children with immersive, culturally respectful learning experiences rooted in First Nations knowledge and artistic expression.
“All these projects share a common purpose in driving change, creating opportunities, and uplifting others in the local community. Their work highlights the diversity and depth of talent in the ACT” – Ms Crimmins said.
Congratulations again to our recipients!
For more information, please contact:
Eleanor Sander O’Hearn
Executive Director Communications Advocacy Engagement
eleanor.sanderohearn@ywca-canberra.org.au
0475 240 101