Heidi Prowse OAM, ACT Labor Candidate for Ginninderra, ACT 2024
In this blog series, we ask our alums to tell us about their personal ‘pathway to politics’ and provide their recommendations for content that will help support, guide, inspire and engage other women on their political journey.
My journey into the political landscape began with a deep-seated passion for community service and a drive to make a tangible difference in the lives of the people around me. Then being thrust into the system with the person I love most showed me that many of the issues we face were systemic, rooted in complex policies and legislation.
When I applied for Pathway to Politics for Women, I had already activated my plan to be a candidate in the 2024 ACT Election. I saw the program as an opportunity to deepen my understanding, gain skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complex world of politics, and advocate effectively for my community. Particularly from a bipartisan lens to help me get a better understanding of the whole landscape.
Reflecting on my experience, I can confidently say it has been transformative. The guidance and support I received from seasoned politicians and experts has been invaluable, providing me with insights that textbooks simply cannot offer. Their guidance has not only helped me understand the intricacies of campaigning, policy-making and governance but also bolstered my confidence to stand firm in my beliefs and aspirations.
Today, as a Labor Candidate for the 2024 ACT Election, I find myself at an exciting crossroads. My journey has been marked by significant accomplishments, such as raising $1m for cystic fibrosis convincing people to run around Canberra, in speedos, in winter.
However, it has not been without challenges. I remind myself that I have already survived my worst day, the day I lost my husband. That fuels my desire to do more, be better.
My commitment to improving the lives of others has always and will always be my guiding principle. Navigating the political arena demands resilience and adaptability, and I am continuously learning and growing in this dynamic field. My commitment to serving my community and driving positive change remains unwavering, and I am excited for what lies ahead. #Vote1Prowse !!
“My commitment to improving the lives of others has always and will always be my guiding principle. Navigating the political arena demands resilience and adaptability, and I am continuously learning and growing in this dynamic field.”
– Heidi Prowse OAM
My recommendations
7am Podcast, Schwartz Media
My morning commute is not full without the 7am podcast. A 20 minute low down on a key political issue in Australia. Or jump into the Saturday Paper.
Equal Justice by Rabia Siddique
I found this personal story of Rabia an incredible reflection on what we are willing to give for the right cause and how even through the challenges and tumultuous experiences we have the inner strength to achieve whatever we put our mind to.
Troll Hunting by Ginger Gorman
Bullying, harassment and online trolling are commonly discussed but never like they are in Troll Hunting where we have a 3-pronged view (psychology expert, participant and victims) of the behaviours, motivations and people that both participate in and experience bullying behaviours. It opens your eyes to human beings and answers that difficult why question. This is something worth reading before you start standing on street stalls or knocking on doors!
News broadcast / Not what you usually listen to
I also highly recommend spending some time tuning in to the News broadcast you’re not a fan of. Likely because its views are different to your own. By understanding there are always a variety of perspectives and experiences you are better placed to respond when someone raises something with you directly.
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