The Walford Changemaker Fund, inspired by the 2024 International Women’s Day theme “Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress,” is set to empower students in Years 7 to 11 to address social issues and establish impactful start-up enterprises. In line with the theme, the fund aims to foster principled innovation among students, whether working solo or in teams.

“At Walford, we believe in the immense potential of young women to effect positive change locally and globally,” said Dr Deborah Netolicky, Walford Principal. “Our school has a proud legacy of nurturing trailblazers who drive lasting societal change. The creation of this fund is a testament to our commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders in social justice, business and innovation.”

This seed fund is the first of its kind in South Australian schools and supports Walford’s commitment to empowering young women to become leaders and change-makers by fostering innovation and social responsibility among its students.

The primary objective of the Walford Changemaker Fund is to cultivate innovative thinking among students, equip them with the skills to understand and address complex challenges, and to literally invest in our students. Rooted in the principles of ‘human-centred design’, the program emphasises entrepreneurial skills such as problem solving, project management, critical thinking, teamwork, and communication.

“By establishing this fund, we aim to break down barriers that hinder young women from pursuing leadership roles and social entrepreneurship,” added Enza Iammarrone, Walford Changemaker Founder. “We are dedicated to providing students with the tools they need to thrive in the real world.”.

Students who pitch their ideas for the Walford Changemaker Fund are rewarded with an opportunity to win $500 from the School to launch their social enterprise and an in-kind mentorship package to support their journey from the start-up community at Stone & Chalk.

April Ridgway
Director of Marketing and Community Engagement