2020 Women of Campbelltown
Harshani Jayasinghe
'There is no goal too big'.
Harshani was a finalist in the Channel 9 Young Achievers Award and the Australia Day Awards Young Citizen of the Year in 2016. She is actively pursuing a career in health and policy, aiming to improve the lives of people through health initiatives.
Imma Caporaso
'Follow your passion and do what you believe in with all your heart whatever you do.'
Imma Caporaso has been a prominent local businesswoman in Campbelltown having established several businesses including the renowned Mercato known for quality local and imported fine foods and café.
Jenny Paradiso
'Find your tribe and get support early; support from people at your level and at higher levels, seek out mentors and coaches.'
Jenny Paradiso heads the solar and battery storage company, Suntrix - a business she grew from her kitchen table to a multi-million-dollar company focused on renewable energy.
Jill Whittaker OAM
'Think globally, act locally.'
Jill is a long-standing elected member of the City of Campbelltown Council and the first female Mayor of Campbelltown in 150 years.
Marie Skrodzki
'You can do anything, but you can’t do everything.'
Marie was elected to Campbelltown Council as a ward representative at the age of 21 after having been a member of the Campbelltown Youth Advisory Committee for several years.
Mary Centofanti
'Believe in yourself and be prepared to work hard.'
Mary Centofanti commenced her working life in Dresslier, the same hair products company, founded in 1930, that she and her husband John now own and manage. She has lived and worked in Campbelltown for more than 20 years and still lives in the area, managing her international business from Campbelltown.
Paddy McKay
'Education breaks the cycle.'
Paddy believes in the power of volunteering in all aspects of the Campbelltown City area. She is a passionate advocate for promoting youth education and violence prevention programs in schools and the community.
Pam Schartner
'Find and maintain your own personal values; those things that sustain you and give life meaning.'
Pam is the South Australian branch leader of the Australian Knit4Charities group, Adelaide Knit and Natter. Pam has been the driving force in establishing the SA group that now has around 800 members from across the state.
Val Amber
'The family is the centre of my life – the happy memories and enjoying being with family are critical factors in my life.'
Val has lived in the City of Campbelltown for more than 60 years, bringing up three children and supporting her husband Max as Mayoress.
Vale Pederson
'As one door closes, another opens and taking advantage of the opportunities that have taken my life in different directions have been key factors in my life.'
Vale has a strong commitment to the Campbelltown City area and was awarded the Campbelltown Citizen of the Year in 2016 for her 25 years of service to the Campbelltown Landcare Group, including as Secretary of the Group and her roles with Campbelltown University of the Third Age, including President.