THE idea to step in and make change is at the forefront of many people’s minds, although anxiety can limit the ability to act, but for Hannah Eisen practice to overcome uncomfortable situations is what gets her through those hard conversations and in turn led her to be shortlisted for Australian of the Year Award 2024.
This achievement is recognition of Hannah’s drive and passion to make positive change within her community; for the self-less contributions she has made to the Phillip Island Boardriders Club (PIBC) during her role as president, and recognition of her role as an Architect, Interior Designer, and Project Manager who runs her own Design and Project Management consultancy - HE Consulting.
The award nomination states that Hannah ‘consistently connects community members to each other, she actively involves younger women in the committee of PIBC, treating them with respect and valuing their opinions.’
Her expertise led the PIBC clubhouse restoration and surf equipment upgrades, and created the future resources required for the next generation of committee members.
In the construction industry, STEM, and government sector, she continues to coach and mentor women to pursue career paths in these historically male dominated industries.
Hannah is also an advocate and open support to women who are experiencing gender-based violence, in personal and professional settings.
Hannah continues to seek out fellowships and training to further educate herself on how to be the best leader.’
In a discussion with the Sentinel-Times Hannah reflected on this nomination and the significance of being shortlisted for the Australian of the Year Award, stating that in all that she has achieved it’s never been about her.
“It's about if I had my time over what I would do to support or nurture and that's not for my ego, or my accolade or acknowledgement. I just think if I've got a skill to help them out, I'll help and it's about the collective – that then has like a knock-on effect for positive, healthy communities,” said Hannah.
Since the successful opening of Berninneit in Cowes – a project managed by HE Consulting, Hannah felt the need for change, and has since made a move to Western Australia after being offered to take on one of the biggest infrastructure projects in WA – she also wanted to be near her brother and his partner who recently welcomed twins.
“I was ready to take on a new experience, I really wanted to be there and see my brother as a dad and be around and show support for the next generation of my own family.
“The cultural center had finished, and I felt like the legacy that I had intended to give back to PIBC had reached its natural progression; it’s reignited the sense of community and sometimes it’s time for succession planning - for the next person to bring a different flavor of skill or knowledge or experience into the club – whatever that may be,” said Hannah.
Despite Hannah saying goodbye to Bass Coast, she has certainly left a legacy behind, not only within the PIBC but within the community thanks to her leadership that’s inspired the next generation.
Hannahs dedication to making change continues in WA with her sight already set on a community organisation Ocean Heroes – where she has volunteered her time; a group focused on children on the spectrum or with autism to get them integrated into the community and develop social skills through surfing.
“However, I will always have a gender-based focus after working in construction as a female, seeing graduates in the office questioning themselves or having moments of self-doubt. I think it's going to come naturally that I'll end up taking on that role throughout my career, whether it's mentoring informally, or formally or conducting leadership talks or hosting or chairing meetings that has that flavor of discussing mindfulness.
“A topic that doesn’t get discussed in an office environment, but because of my association with surfing and yoga, I think it’s important to start integrating the importance of intuition into corporate language because this just might help people feel more human,” Hannah explained.
“Failure is somewhat a good thing because then you learn that it's not rejection. It's redirection.”
Hannah emphasized the importance of helping others understand ways in which to deal with stressful situations, so being overwhelmed and anxious doesn’t lead people to saying ‘no’ when they face uncomfortable situations, and changing this is to them saying ‘yes’ because they can share their knowledge or skills with others.
Being shortlisted for the Australian of the Year Award is a huge achievement for Hannah, she too shared that she suffers from anxiety but has found ways in which to cope in stressful situations so that she can say ‘yes’ – which has led her to see so much success at such a young age.
“The calibre of nominations is outstanding so to be among them was a great honour,” said Hannah. “The community response has been amazing. It's like they have won an award in a way.”
While Hannah’s shoes will be big ones to fill, come AGM in July the PIBC will be electing a new president and vice president for the 24/25 season, with all paid PIBC members encouraged to apply.
The role of the president is to lead the annual planning of the club, help the committee prioritise its goals and performance, and facilitate effective management of club meetings.
Hannah urges those involved to step forward and help direct the club into the next chapter.
If this sounds like you, PIBC encourages you to reach out to any of the current PIBC committee members for a confidential chat, or email contact@pibc.com.au.
