Among 400 nominations, showcasing women from all walks of life who are championing positive change across several fields, Greek Australian activist Chanel Contos has come away with the NSW Young Woman of the Year Award.

The annual award is given to women aged 18-30 years, who have demonstrated incredible potential or achievement in her chosen field, passion, or area of interest.

Contos gained international recognition for her efforts to raise awareness about sexual assault and consent over the past three years. The end of 2022 saw her grace the cover of Marie Claire named a “Changemaker” as one of the most influential women of the year.

“Congratulations to Chanel! An inspirational leader who empowers young women and girls to have confidence in speaking up about consent and helping to build a safer future for women,” NSW Minister for Women, Bronnie Taylor said.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CkwVoWQhqYb/

Sydney-born and raised, Contos began her journey of empowerment when she attended a private all-girls school and continued while studying at the University of Sydney. While at university, Contos became increasingly aware of the prevalence of sexual assault and harassment on campus. She also noticed a disturbing lack of education around consent and healthy relationships.

Her activism began in earnest in February 2021, when she started an Instagram account called “Girls Talk About Sexism.” The account quickly gained traction, with thousands of women sharing their own stories of sexual assault and harassment. Contos also started a petition calling for better education around consent in schools, which garnered more than 40,000 signatures via teachusconsent.com.

“Sexual assault is not an easy topic to talk about, but Chanel’s positive campaign has managed to break down those barriers and raise awareness within the community about safer behaviours,” NSW Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence, Natalie Ward, said adding that “Chanel’s initiative highlights that just one idea from an Instagram post can start a powerful conversation to drive positive change within our society.”

In March 2021, Contos organised a protest in Sydney’s Hyde Park, which was attended by thousands of people. The protest called for better education around consent in schools and for the government to take action to address sexual assault and harassment.

Her efforts have had a significant impact on the conversation around sexual assault in Australia. Her petition and protest helped to put pressure on the government to take action, and in April 2021, the New South Wales government announced that it would be implementing changes to the school curriculum to include more education around consent and healthy relationships.

Huge congrats to @Chanelcontos -the 2023 NSW Young Woman of The Year #WOTYA #NSWWomensWeek #IWD #NSWWomensWeek2023 pic.twitter.com/a9CIouZlrA

— Janice Petersen (@JaniceKPetersen) March 8, 2023

The Greek-Australian also inspired other women to speak out about their own experiences of sexual assault and harassment.

Contos’ Instagram account, @teachusconsent has become a platform for women to share their stories and connect with others who have had similar experiences. The account has also helped to break down the stigma surrounding sexual assault and has encouraged more people to come forward and seek help.

To see all the awards and nominations visit www.nsw.gov.au/women-nsw/awards-and-events/nsw-women-of-year-awards