Founder of The Women's Society, Jade Nelson, Recognised for Connecting Communities at 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards

Jade Nelson, founder of The Women’s Society, has been recognised for her contribution to reducing social isolation among women, receiving the Awards Australia Foundation Connecting Communities Award at the 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards.

What began as a simple idea to help women feel less alone has grown into a movement of almost 5,000 women.

Founded by Jade in 2022, The Women’s Society creates safe and welcoming opportunities for women to connect, build friendships and access community support. The organisation has now delivered more than 500 hours of connection through over 150 programs, events and community initiatives.

Through her own lived experience, Jade has continued to advocate for women most at risk of isolation and ensure their voices are represented in broader conversations about women’s wellbeing.

Her work has included contributing to consultation for the Queensland Women’s Economic Security and Wellbeing Strategy and working alongside the Honourable Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security.

The award recognised Jade’s community advocacy, lived-experience leadership and commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for connection.

“I feel incredibly honoured to have received the Connecting Communities Young Achiever Award, thanks to the Awards Australia Foundation and 7NEWS,” Ms Nelson said.

“I am proud to stand alongside so many inspiring young Australians who are creating meaningful change across our nation.”

While the award was presented to Jade, she said the achievement belonged to the wider community behind The Women’s Society.

“This award belongs to every woman who has ever felt isolated, every woman who has shared her lived experience and every member of The Women’s Society,” Ms Nelson said.

“It shows that this work is being noticed and that women who have often felt unheard now have a stronger voice.”

The recognition marks an important milestone for The Women’s Society as it continues to grow its programs, advocacy and partnerships across North Queensland.

For Jade and the organisation’s members, the message remains simple:

Ending isolation starts with conversation.

Community creates change.

Connection saves lives.

To learn more about The Women’s Society or support its work, visit www.thewomenssociety.com.au.