Nominations are now open for the inaugural Victorian Mother of the Year award.
The initiative celebrates the contribution mums make every day, seeking to spotlight the broader aspects of motherhood that inspire, nurture and redefine modern parenting.
The Y Mother of the Year is a new perspective on recognising inspiring mothers.
The Victorian Mother of the Year Award was launched at a brunch event held at the Sofitel Melbourne, hosted by broadcaster, columnist and mum Jo Stanley who spoke candidly about the joys of motherhood in all its forms.
She said by recognising the Victorian Mother of the Year, we were inspired to acknowledge the mothers and mother figures in our own lives.
The Y Victoria CEO Carolyn Morris said the award aimed to spotlight those who broke norms and redefined parenting, and through it hoped to encourage a new appreciation of motherhood.
“Our aim is to reflect and celebrate the rich tapestry of families that make up our communities, welcoming all traditional and non-traditional mother figures who live in Victoria. In a world where the definition of family is ever-evolving, we stand proud in launching an award that mirrors the diversity and inclusivity of our society today,” she said.
“What this is not about is comparing or judging mums. What it is about asking our whole community to notice the effort and energy – and let’s face it, sheer hard work – it takes to raise children.
“One mother will be selected to represent the other mums nominated. They will be an everyday mum, they will be relatable, inspirational figures who make a profound impact in our communities and on young people.”
The award is open to traditional and non-traditional mother figures who currently live in the state of Victoria (Australia).
The term mother figure is inclusive of relatives, role models, community leaders and all people who identify as female.
The Victorian Mother of the Year will be judged on their contribution to the community, be an everyday person, a positive role model, and align with the Y’s core values of honesty, caring, inclusion, respect and responsibility.
Nominations are now open and will close at 5pm 26 April, 2024.
To nominate, click here.
The winner of the inaugural Victorian Mother of the Year will be announced at a ceremony at the Melbourne Town Hall on Friday 10 May 2024.