Two leaders at Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains (WSBM) have been recognised in two separate awards programs.
Helen Emmerson, Executive Director of Catholic Care WSBM has been announced as a finalist in the Western Sydney Women Awards in the “Woman in Leadership” category.
This award celebrates a woman who demonstrates exceptional leadership, driving results and influence in business, sport, politics, or community. This award recognises those who shape the future of their industries through excellence, vision, and impact.
“This is the first time that Catholic Care entered the awards, and being announced a finalist is such an honour,” said Helen.
“I am delighted to be a finalist along with three other outstanding women,” she said.
Having begun her career as a registered nurse specialising in mental health at the former Rozelle Hospital, Helen has held numerous senior roles in Australia and the UK including for the Australian Foundation for Disability, Blind Veterans UK, Sussex NHS Trust UK, and UnitingCare. She was also CEO of Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT) for five years and in 2024, was appointed Executive Director of Catholic Care WSBM.
Throughout her career, Helen has consistently built and led teams of women and her current Executive Team of five at Catholic Care are female. The winner will be announced on 2 November.
Sakshi Verma, one of our Educators from Western Sydney Family Daycare has been named the Parramatta and Western Suburbs Regional Winner in the 2026 Excellence in Family Day Care Awards.
Sakshi is one of 71 outstanding educators recognised across Australia for their dedication to providing high-quality early childhood education and care and for the positive difference they make in the lives of children, families and their communities.
Each Regional winner now progresses to the next stage of the Awards, which will be announced on 20 October 2026.
Congratulations to Helen and Sakshi.
