Author of ‘Her Voice’ and founder and chair of the Food for Thought Greek Australian Women’s Network, Varvara Ioannou, was amongst five other Melbournians who were recognised in Manningham City Council’s 2022 Civic Awards on Wednesday night.
Before an estimated 200 people in the Manningham Function Centre, Varvara was named the ‘Doreen Stoves AM PSM JP Volunteer of the Year’.
In a statement, the council wrote: “Varvara is acknowledged as being an inspiring volunteer leader in our community, sharing her professional knowledge and experience.”
“Varvara encourages others to volunteer their time to create an inclusive community. She is committed to creating inclusive schools, universities, workplaces, community organisations and communities,” the statement said.
WATCH Varvara speak with Manningham Council in 2021 about her community and social work.
In previous years, the award had been titled the ‘Volunteer of the Year Award’, however, this year had been renamed in honour of the late Doreen Stoves AM PSM JP.
Doreen has been widely considered a pioneer in the community space, working tirelessly to support socially isolated and marginalised people across Victoria.
For her part, Varvara, who was unable to attend the ceremony, said she was honoured to receive the award, saying; “I would like to express my gratitude to the Manningham City Council for honouring me with the prestigious Doreen Stoves Civic Award.”
“I had the pleasure for having had brunch with the late Doreen a month before she passed away. It was such an honour to watch the whole ceremony from Greece. I had tears in my eyes and feel blessed. Thank you.”
