Lismore local and proud Yaegl woman Georgina Bruinsma (Cohen), has been announced as a finalist in the Community Impact category of the MBA Australasia Awards for her contribution to the First Nations community in the Northern Rivers during and after the February 2022 floods.  

The Community Impact Award recognises Master of Business Administration (MBA) students, alumni, or graduates throughout the Australasia region who have displayed a deep dedication to developing positive change and enduring impact in their communities.  

In addition to her current role as Senior Manager of Aboriginal Leadership & Engagement at community service organisation Social Futures, Ms Bruinsma is completing her MBA at the Ducere Global Business School, further strengthening her ability to lead positive change in Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. 

Originally from the Clarence Valley NSW, and part of the Lismore community since 2007, Ms Bruinsma acknowledges the Widjabul Wia-bul people of the Bundjalung nation and reflects on her award nomination, expressing the importance of continuing her education.  

“Culture and community are at the heart of everything I do, and that motivates me every day," said Ms Bruinsma. 

“The essence to all I have done so far in my career has been to support others to be the best version of themselves and provide frameworks for this. 

“The Lismore floods of 2022 were by far the most intense disaster I have been involved in. Nothing could prepare you for the devastation that took place, the trauma and pain you experience, the stories you are told, the lives that were lost. 

“For me, it is crucial to keep learning, not just for personal growth but to be able to bring those learnings back to the whole community, and to empower First Nations people to thrive,” said Ms Bruinsma. 

From personally transporting members of the community to securing food supplies, sector colleagues who worked with Georgina in the immediate aftermath of the 2022 floods described her as ‘selfless’ and ‘a tower of strength’, witnessing her compassion and hands-on leadership working with multiple teams across operational matters and on critical grant applications. 

Social Futures, CEO, Tony Davies acknowledges Ms Bruinsma’s outstanding dedication and says it demonstrates the values and culture of the organisation. 

"Georgina’s history of engagement with the community and her pursuit of further education reflect the values at the heart of Social Futures – inclusion, integrity and learning.” said Mr Davies. 

“Our organisation strives to create lasting change by building inclusive communities where everyone is valued and supported. Georgina’s work is a great example of how leadership and connection can make a measurable impact, and her recognition as a finalist in the Community Impact category is truly deserved." 

Judges will assess Community Impact award submissions for tangible impacts and look for evidence of sustainable long-term benefits; promotion of inclusion and social equity; leadership qualities, and application of MBA learnings to real-world obstacles.  

Award winners will be announced at the MBA Australasia Awards ceremony in Sydney on Thursday, 17 October.