From the team at Reach, we would like to congratulate Sarah Davies on being recognised in the 2020 Australia Day Honours List as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to the community through a range of executive roles. As the current CEO of Philanthropy Australia, Sarah is also a Board Member at the Centre for Social Impact, Ladder and Kids Undercover.

Sarah was a former CEO at Reach, having lead the organisation from November 2011 to September 2015. Sarah demonstrated considerable leadership during her time at Reach, having lead the organisation through the passing of our co-founder, Jim Stynes OAM, as well as strengthening our expansion into NSW.

Anthony Klein, Chair of Reach said:

“On behalf of all Reach Staff, Crew and Directors I pass on our heartfelt congratulations to Sarah for being appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the community through a range of executive roles.  As a former CEO of Reach, Sarah brought a rich combination of skills, experience, knowledge of the sector and passion for young people to the role.  The Reach Foundation, and the young people of Australia with whom we interact, have benefited from Sarah’s time with us.” 

Sasha Lawrence, CEO said:

“I had the privilege of working for Reach as a young person during Sarah’s time as CEO and I couldn’t think of a leader more deserving of this recognition. Sarah’s generosity in mentoring, coaching and contributing to building the social sector is beyond admirable. She has had an impact on many individuals and I’m lucky to be one of those people!”

We are also really pleased to see that this year was the highest ever percentage of female recipients at 41.6 per cent of all awards. We congratulate the Council of the Order of Australia and we look forward to seeing this percentage increase to reflect the vital contribution that women have always, and will continue to make to our country.

Congratulations to Sarah and all the other recipients. Our country has never needed such strong leadership and we’re lucky to have all these leaders making a difference and helping safeguard our future.