Connection through language and culture exchange

Ms Ivone has been recognised for her leadership in building inclusive, connected regional communities through language and cultural exchange.

Based in Albury, Boas Language Academy is a social enterprise language school that draws on Ms Ivone’s background in international relations and regional development. She works with migrants to deliver fun, immersive language courses, turning language from a barrier into a bridge – strengthening connection, confidence and opportunity across the regional communities like Albury.

Through Boas, migrants are supported not only to learn language, but to teach it – building their purpose, confidence and capacity, and creating a ripple effect of belonging and connection.

In its first year, Boas has supported 13 migrant teachers – seven of them women – reaching more than 80 students across 29 languages, with most returning for subsequent terms.

The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, supported by platinum sponsor Westpac, is Australia’s leading award recognising the innovation, leadership and impact of women in rural and regional industries and communities.

As the 2026 NSW/ACT winner, Ms Ivone will receive a $15,000 Westpac grant, which she will use to expand Boas’ language offerings by training more migrant teachers and running pilot courses in languages including Swahili, Japanese, German and Hindi, and build an impact measurement framework to track and communicate Boas’ community impact and support longer-term replication across the country. She will also undertake a professional development course of her choice.

Ms Ivone received her award from The Hon. Jodie Harrison MP, Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.

Ms Ivone said Boas is grounded in creating connection, belonging and opportunity. “Language has the power to bring people together and create a true sense of belonging – by supporting migrants to share their language and culture, we’re building stronger, more connected communities where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.”

Cultural inclusion

AgriFutures Australia Managing Director, Brianna Casey AM said the award celebrates women creating lasting impact where it matters most.

“The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award recognises women who are shaping the future of rural Australia through innovation, enterprise and leadership. Kristie’s work is a compelling example of how cultural inclusion, when done well, can transform individuals and the communities they call home.”

Westpac Regional General Manager, Regional & Agribusiness, Andy Kidd, said Ms Ivone’s work is making a real difference in Albury and beyond.

“Through Boas Language Academy, Kristie is opening doors for people to connect, contribute and feel genuinely at home in the communities where they’ve chosen to build their lives. We’re proud to support Kristie as she continues to grow Boas and represents NSW/ACT at the national level.”

Later this year, Ms Ivone will represent NSW/ACT at the 2026 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Gala Dinner and National Announcement in Canberra, on Tuesday, 8 September 2026. The national winner will receive an additional $20,000 Westpac grant, with the national runner-up receiving an additional $15,000.

For more information about the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, visit www.agrifutures.com.au/rwa.

About AgriFutures Australia

AgriFutures Australia is the trading name for the Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation (RIRDC), a statutory authority of the Federal Government established by the Primary Industries Research and Development Act 1989.

AgriFutures invests in research, innovation and leadership to grow the long-term prosperity of Australian agriculture. We support 13 levied industries driving growth through targeted research, development and extension that strengthens industry productivity, sustainability and competitiveness.

AgriFutures also delivers national programs that address industry-wide challenges and opportunities, connects global agrifood innovation networks, and builds leadership across the agricultural sector.

Research investments made or managed by AgriFutures Australia, and publications and communication materials pertaining to those investments, are funded by industry levy payers and/or the Federal Government.