The City of Parramatta and Parramatta Eels, with support from Western Sydney University, have announced the inaugural winner of the Rising Women of Western Sydney scholarship during an International Women’s Day event at Parramatta Town Hall.
28-year-old youth and education advocate Kirstene Ciappara has been named the 2025 winner of the scholarship, valued at more than $30,000 and part of a three-year partnership between the City and the Parramatta Eels.
“I am incredibly honoured to be selected as the first recipient of the Rising Women of Western Sydney Scholarship,” Ms Ciappara said.
“This opportunity will enable me to expand my business, myDESIGN, and reach many more students, helping them discover their passions and live out their purpose.”
“I’m excited to use this scholarship to further my work in youth development and wellbeing, and I’m deeply grateful for the support from the Eels, Western Sydney University, and the City of Parramatta.”
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the scholarship was about helping the next generation of influential women in the west to reach their full potential.
“Western Sydney women are bright and resilient – this scholarship gives a promising young woman a chance to really make an impact,” Cr Zaiter said.
“We want to invest in women who can be effective leaders for our community – women who will lead the way as we grow into a global City.”
“Kirstene is a true rising woman of the west, and I look forward to seeing her continue her work to make a positive difference in our community.”
Parramatta Eels Chief Executive Officer Jim Sarantinos congratulated Kirstene on being announced as this year’s winner.
“We believe the Rising Women of Western Sydney Scholarship presents an incredible opportunity for Kirstene to scale her initiative and create significant social impact,” Mr Sarantinos said.
“The collaboration and support from the Eels, Western Sydney University, and the City of Parramatta will help to further elevate her program.
“While the other candidates were impressive, we felt Kirstene is in the best position to maximise the scholarship and create immediate impact.”
About the Rising Women of Western Sydney scholarship:
The scholarship is part of a three-year partnership between the City and the Eels that is delivering free rugby league clinics for local kids, building participation and inclusion for young girls in multicultural communities and aiming to grow the reputation of Parramatta as a visitor destination.
It’s open to women aged 18 to 28 years who live, work or study in the Parramatta LGA and/or can show significant connection to the local community – for example, through sport, volunteering or other community-based activities.
It provides an opportunity to build their skills and to strengthen their educational qualifications, helping them to reach their full potential.
The sponsorship package includes:
- $15,000 cash scholarship
- An internship with the Parramatta Eels in an identified business area
- A leadership course with the Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue valued at $13,000
- $5,000 from Western Sydney University towards lifelong learning
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