I don't think people realise how much they can do. 1 person can contribute to the lives of more than 1 person. And if everyone did that it would be perfect.
The importance of education
When she was 11 years old and still living in Eritrea, Amara's father gave her a copy of the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It contains the principle that 'All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.'
Amara still refers to it today. In her work in leadership and community development, she stresses the importance of education and learning from the experiences of others.
Amara is an example of a female leader who has embraced leadership as a champion of change. She advocates for women who can't speak out.
When she was chairperson of the Eritrean Women's Network, Amara pioneered the first educational campaign against female genital mutilation in Australia. This led to the establishment of the Family and Reproductive Rights Education Program. This is now provided across the state by a range of health providers.
There's no typical path to leadership
Amara is driven by the desire to make a real difference in people's lives. Her work aims to challenge stereotypes about women in leadership. She has met many women who haven't followed a typical path to leadership. But they have become leaders anyway because of their passion, vision and ability to work with others.
Amara believes women leaders need to stay positive, be resilient and maintain a work-life balance. She encourages women to participate in all levels of leadership in politics, business and the community.
Reviewed 27 October 2020