Sunita Kotnala, founder of Women’s Shed Canberra, has been named the 2025 Canberra Citizen of the Year in recognition of her transformative work empowering women with practical trade skills and fostering a sense of community and confidence.
Women’s Shed Canberra, co-founded in 2020 by Ms Kotnala and her friend Robby McGarvey, offers hands-on workshops in home repair and maintenance—covering everything from using power tools to building picture frames and replacing door locks. The initiative not only equips women with essential skills but also inspires many to consider careers in construction and building trades. Participants report improved confidence, mental health, and a strong sense of empowerment.
Ms Kotnala expressed her pride in receiving the award, stating:
“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 holds special significance for Ms Kotnala as it marks 25 years since she migrated to Australia from India as a skilled worker. With a master’s degree in social work and extensive experience in counselling, mental health, and community development, she has channeled her professional background and lifelong passion for restoration into building a thriving community hub.
Ms Kotnala’s journey with trade skills began as a personal hobby—repurposing furniture, learning from YouTube and woodworking books, and eventually joining a women’s shed in Sydney. However, upon moving to Canberra, she discovered no similar group existed. Determined to fill the gap, she launched Women’s Shed Canberra with a vision to support women who felt isolated or disconnected.
Originally based at Thor’s Hammer and the Jerrabomberra Wetlands, the Shed has grown steadily. In 2023, it introduced a mobile service to make workshops more accessible, particularly for women facing transportation barriers. That same year, it received an ACT Social Enterprise grant and found a permanent home in Greenway.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr congratulated Ms Kotnala on her achievements:
“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.”
The Women’s Shed now welcomes women aged 18 and over, offering a safe and inclusive space for learning, tinkering, and building. Many original members continue to participate, while others move on with the skills and confidence they need in their daily lives.
Ms Kotnala has also been active in domestic violence and women’s empowerment work. Her dedication to helping others and building an inclusive space for women to thrive has made a lasting impact.
The Canberra Citizen of the Year Award recognises individuals who have made a significant contribution to the community, fostering civic pride and driving positive change. Ms Kotnala’s vision, leadership, and unwavering dedication to women’s empowerment through trade skills have made her a most deserving recipient of this prestigious honour.
