Winner of Gargi Woman Award 2018 – (Community)
By Bharathi R
Jacinta Tobin has been awarded Hindu Council of Australia’s Gargi Woman Award 2018 for her outstanding contribution to Community. The award consisting of a plaque was presented to her by Dy. Lord Mayor Parramatta Council Hon. Michelle Garrad Mr Prakash Mehta – National President Hindu Council of Australia.
Jacinta has coordinated City of Parramatta’s National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) for over 3 years. She has transformed the event from a stallholder event into a cultural celebration. NAIDOC now has a focus on healing, educating, raising cultural awareness, and the event brings Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people together.
At NAIDOC 2017, she implemented a Domestic Violence tent with the assistance of Domestic Violence services and organisations. The tent was created to assist and support women, who may be living in violent relationships. Women were able to access Domestic Violence information and support in a confidential and safe environment.
During NAIDOC events, she has worked with a number of artists in particular female artists. She encourages artists to build their confidence by performing at events, and she trains and supports young event coordinators during the planning of NAIDOC.
In 2017, she supported the Female Factory Precinct, Long Time Coming Home, National Sorry Day event. The Female Factory Precinct is Australia’s first purpose built Female Factory and Orphanage. She also works closely with schools, teaching language songs to children and young people.
Jacinta is a highly respected woman who is passionate about helping others, and educating the community about Aboriginal Culture. Holding traditional values, She supports Elders at every opportunity with their decision making and planning of community activities.
Jacinta Tobin has been awarded for her outstanding service to her community.
