2026 Women of Campbelltown
Allison Hughes
'You meet people who are having their worst day and you want to help them in some way.'
Alli grew up in Tranmere and remains a proud local, having lived in Campbelltown for the past 19 years. She is a life-member with the Campbelltown SES, recognising her 30 years of dedicated volunteer service.
Cara Miller
'Choose to say yes more often than no.'
Cara's leadership journey is shaped by community, compassion, and a belief in opportunity. Raised on a mixed farm in the South Australian Mallee, she grew up in a family where education, resilience, and hard work were expected, and gender was never a limitation.
Di Sullivan
'Knowing your inner self enables you to know and understand the people and environment around you.'
Di is passionate about caring for the environment and building sustainable communities. She is deeply concerned about climate change and the future for her grandchildren.
Erika Von Elm
'Learn from the past and keep your eyes on the future.'
Erika’s life reflects her curiosity, commitment to learning and building community. Born in Darmstadt, Germany, her childhood was shaped by the war, shortages and separation from her father.
Gilda Campbell
'Life’s challenges and experiences result in resilience, self reflection and growth.'
Gilda migrated from Italy as a two year old with her family, settling in Campbelltown where she has always lived. She is a compassionate and community-driven leader with more than 40 years experience working across government, multicultural services, aged care and community development in South Australia.
Margaret Lee
'In the roller coaster of the ups and downs of life, find happiness always. A challenge today may well be the biggest blessing for the future.'
Margaret was born in Malaysia to a traditional Chinese family and as a young child was 'happiest with her hands', learning embroidery skills from her mother. Margaret is a passionate arts educator and asserts 'stitching isn’t academic', emphasising the integration of mind, body and spirit in her practice.
Nidhi Ramesh
'Stay safe and stay curious.'
Seventeen-year-old Nidhi brings global perspectives, creativity and advocacy to her new home in Campbelltown. Having lived across seven countries, she developed a deep curiosity about people and the issues that shape young lives.
RubinA
'Don’t give me what I ask for; give me what is best for me.'
Born in Chandigarh, India, RubinA grew up in a supportive, education-focused family and discovered her love of performance at an early age. Excelling in both academics and theatre, she built a successful career in acting, writing and teaching before migrating to Adelaide through a special arts pathway.
Solomia Onyskiv
'Putting time aside to do something quiet helps me to reset and is important for my mental health and wellness.'
Solomia is a motivated and talented 16-year old who is deeply connected to her Ukrainian heritage, culture and language. From a young age, Solomia has been actively involved with the Association of Ukrainians in South Australia.
Sandra Kanck
'Education is the key to addressing injustices.'
Sandra was born in Broken Hill, the eldest of seven children, it was here she became actively engaged in advocating for human rights. Sandra was elected to the South Australian Parliament as an Australian Democrats member in 1993, leading to 15 years service as a member of the Legislative Council.