Released 21/03/2025
The driving force behind Women’s Shed Canberra Sunita Kotnala has been named the 2025 Canberra Citizen of the Year in recognition of her work empowering hundreds of women.
Since it was established in 2020, Women’s Shed Canberra has helped women develop skills in home repair and maintenance that improve their day-to-day lives, while also inspiring them to consider careers in construction and building trades.
From learning how to build a picture frame to installing and replacing door locks, women from the age of 18 can participate in the workshops. Some original members remain active, while others have come and gone once they’ve acquired the skills they need.
Workshops focus on skill-building and mental health for women of all backgrounds.
Since 2020 Women’s Shed Canberra has expanded and it introduced a mobile service in 2023, reducing transport barriers faced by some participants and increasing community access to their services. It was also the recipient of an ACT Social Enterprise grant.
Women’s Shed Canberra now has a permanent home in Greenway, which will allow it to grow and prosper into the future.
Quotes attributable to ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr:
“Under Ms Kotnala’s leadership, Women’s Shed Canberra has become a place where women of all backgrounds and abilities can meet, get inspired, develop new skills, create and build.
“Not only has she inspired hundreds of women through her workshops, she has also built a community that continues to grow.
“I congratulate Ms Kotnala on her achievements with Women’s Shed Canberra and today’s well-deserved recognition.”
Quotes attributable to 2025 Canberra Citizen of the Year Sunita Kotnala:
"I feel proud to accept the award as the Founder and CEO of Women's Shed Canberra Inc.
“It showcases the role the women's sheds can play as social enterprises in the circular economy by exposing women to valuable skills in building trades and home repairs. I am delighted with the sense of joy and empowerment that women feel after learning to use power tools in a safe environment.
“The award is doubly special for me as it comes 25 years since my arrival in Australia as a skilled migrant and brings together my experience in social development with my love for restoring and refurbishing."
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Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases