The Cosmopolitan Women of the Year Awards celebrated nine incredible Aussie women who have inspired the nation with their talent, determination and leadership yesterday.
Hosted by Sylvia Jeffreys, the event honoured trailblazers including Paralympian Jessica Smith, who received the prestigious Game Changer Award, and The Bachelorette’s Sophie Monk, who was awarded TV and Radio Personality of the Year.
“Today we recognise the achievements of women across Australia, who have dedicated themselves to inspiring and empowering all women to break down barriers and follow their passion,” Cosmopolitan editor Keshnee Kemp said.
“We are privileged to have the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all of our winners and finalists in doing what they love with the utmost integrity and success.
“Cosmopolitan sends a big thank you to Avon, our principal sponsor, as well as Rip Curl, Pantene and Rest Industry Super, who were the supporting hands behind the event.”
Aussie TV icon Kerri-Anne Kennerley was honoured with a Hall of Fame Award for her longevity and leadership in the entertainment industry.
Fiorella Di Santo, director of sales at Bauer Media, said: “Cosmo has long been a passionate advocate of the Australian woman. As a publisher, we’re proud to provide a platform to celebrate the brave and the bold and demonstrate women supporting women.
“It’s obvious our readers are too, evidenced by the record-breaking number of votes we received for this year’s nominees.”
Other winners this year included 13 Reasons Why star Katherine Langford, Frank Body founders Bree Johnson and Jess Hatzis, and social media influencers Lauren Curtis, Elle Ferguson and Tammy Hembrow, who were named Social Media Stars in their respective fields.
See the full list of winners and finalists below:
Entrepreneur
Winners: Bree Johnson and Jess Hatzis (Frank Body)
Fellow finalists: Kate Morris, Alanna Bastin-Byrne and Jade Collins, Matty Samaei, Sarah Schoeller and Marissa Bowden
Fashion Designer
Winners: Yiota and Thessy Kouzoukas (Sabo Skirt)
Fellow finalists: Nyree Corby, Isabella Pennefather and Elizabeth Abegg, Tamara Ingham and Jasmine Yarbrough, Tash Oakley and Devin Brugman
Game Changer
Winner: Jessica Smith (Paralympian, author and motivational speaker)
Fellow finalists: Gladys Berejiklian, Angela Jay, Khadija Gbla, Melissa Abu-Gazaleh
Performer
Winners: Katherine Langford (actress, 13 Reasons Why)
Fellow finalists: Nicole da Silva, Pia Miller, Samantha Jade, Tanya Hennessy
Social Media Star (Beauty)
Winner: Lauren Curtis
Fellow finalists: Danielle Mansutti, Tina Yong, Jenny Do, Wendy Ayche
Social Media Star (Fashion)
Winner: Elle Ferguson
Fellow finalists: Margaret Zhang, Nadia Fairfax, Nadia Bartel, Sarah Ellen
Social Media Star (Fitness & Travel)
Winner: Tammy Hembrow
Fellow finalists: Felicia Oreb and Diana Johnson, Pia Muehlenbeck, Ashy Bines, Lauren Bullen
TV & Radio Personality
Winner: Sophie Monk
Fellow finalists: Julie Snook, Jan Fran, Bella Frizza, Tara Rushton
Sportswoman
Winner: Joany Badenhorst
Fellow finalists: Rhiannan Iffland, Charlotte Caslick, Tyler Wright, Emily Duggan
