JORDANNA Smith, of Sutherland, has never let a hearing impairment get in her way.
Ms Smith was the winner of the Emerging Leaders Award in Disability category of the 2014 National Disability Awards announced recently.
She received the award during an event at Parliament House, Canberra, on November 25.
Ms Smith was among 23 finalists chosen from more than 200 nominees in the running for 10 awards.
Ms Smith was honoured for her contributions, which include participation in a number of voluntary and paid positions that support her efforts to achieve equality for people with a disability, particularly in the deaf community.
Assistant Minister for Social Service, Senator Mitch Fifield, said the recipients had worked hard to break down barriers for people with disabilities.
‘‘From innovative education programs and inclusive sports for adults and children alike, to leadership in business and employment, and community support programmes that are making a positive difference in health, tourism, emergency services and opportunities for indigenous Australians,’’ he said.
‘‘I congratulate all recipients and wish them all the very best as their work continues to inspire other Australians to improve the lives of people with disability.’’
Senator Fifield said the finalists had done much to improve the lives of people with disabilities and commended ‘‘their commitment to improving the economic and social participation opportunities for people with disability in Australia’’.
The National Disability Awards are part of celebrations marking International Day of People with Disability on December 3.
