Sarah Ferguson: Duchess of York recognises Karratha woman at 2024 Women Changing the World Awards

Co-founder of youth charity Blue Beanie Projects, Sandra Spadanuda, has been recognised as a community impact award winner at the prestigious 2024 Women Changing the World Awards held in London.

Ms Spadanuda has dedicated 26 years to the youth and community services sector, with 13 of those years focused on Karratha.

Blue Beanie Project was founded by Ms Spadanuda and her husband David Heathwood to reduce youth suicide and improve the emotional and social wellbeing of youth across regional WA communities.

Her efforts have centred on improving access to services for young people in regional and remote areas, advocating for support, professional development and funding opportunities for youth service providers.

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The awards ceremony, which celebrated women excelling in various fields such as advocacy and innovation, was attended by notable figures such as Sarah, Duchess of York, and Dr Tererai Trent.

Sandra Spadanuda with her Women Changing the World award Credit: supplied

Speaking about the significance of the event, Dr Trent emphasised the importance of women’s empowerment in shaping a brighter future for all.

“The rising of women is the awakening of everybody,” Dr Trent said.

Ms Spadanuda expressed her elation at winning silver in her category, reflecting on her journey and the obstacles she has overcome.

“Being nominated and named a finalist was incredible, but discovering I had won silver was mind-blowing and surreal,” she said.

“This award is deeply symbolic of my achievements and all I have overcome to get to where I am.”

Attending the awards and summit was a transformative experience for the Blue Beanies co-founder.

“I was deeply honoured to be among such an extraordinary group of women, each with a unique and inspiring story,” she said.

“The event left me feeling profoundly inspired and motivated by the strength, passion, and dedication of everyone I encountered.”

Dr Trent’s vision for the awards aligns with Ms Spadanuda’s commitment to empowering women and paving the way for a better future.

Ms Spadanuda offered advice for those aspiring to make a difference.

“Believe in the power of your passion and persistence,” she said.

“Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and never underestimate the impact of your unique contributions.”

Highlighting the importance of her work, Ms Spadanuda emphasised that every young person deserves access to professional youth services, regardless of their location or background.

She said she is committed to expanding resources, funding and training to ensure the continued development of sustainable and accessible youth services in regional and remote areas.