Ballan’s Keeley Johnson has been named the Young Woman of the West by the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation.
The inaugural Western Bulldogs Community Foundation Awards celebrate the unsung heroes and inspirational champions that have improved lives from the inner west of Melbourne to the broad expanses of Western Victoria.
When Ms Johnson, the founder of Keeley’s Cause, was diagnosed with Autism, she faced a lack of government funding, support from autism organisations, or assistance from NDIS. She turned this into opportunity by establishing a nationally registered charity at the age of just 13.
Keeley’s Cause has become a beacon of hope, providing iPads and support to individuals
with additional needs, empowering them to make the most of their future.
Ms Johnson said her goal is to ensure inclusive education tailored to the individual needs of people with disabilities is available, drawing directly from the struggles and gaps she encountered in her own educational journey.
“I’m deeply honoured to receive this award, which holds profound personal significance for me,” she said.
“As a devoted member and supporter of the Western Bulldogs, I have immense joy at being acknowledged by the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation.
“For young individuals aspiring to make a difference but uncertain where to begin, my advice
is to embrace your passion or idea, even in the face of doubt.”
At the awards on March 4, Mariam Koslay was awarded Woman of the West for contributing to the empowerment of women across Melbourne’s west through creative action and strength-based storytelling, and the Champion for Women of the West award went to Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health (MCWH), a national, community-based organization dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of immigrant and refugee women.
