Kinetic IT’s 2026 International Women’s Day Awards celebrate individuals and teams who are advancing gender equity through leadership, advocacy and everyday action. Aligned with this year’s theme, Balance the Scales, the awards recognise winners creating inclusive workplaces, championing women in STEM, and driving lasting impact.
Recognising the economic, social, political and cultural contributions of women across the technology workforce, Kinetic IT’s 2026 International Women’s Day Awards have recognised several crew helping shape a more inclusive industry.
Now in their third year, Kinetic IT’s IWD Awards highlight individuals and teams demonstrating leadership, advocacy and meaningful action to advance gender equity across our organisation and the communities we serve.
Aligned with this year’s theme ‘Balance the Scales’, the awards recognise those who are creating change through everyday leadership – from championing inclusive workplaces and supporting community initiatives to inspiring the next generation of women in technology.
Chief People Officer Lisa Keogh congratulated all nominees, finalists and winners for their demonstrated commitment to gender equity.
“The 2026 International Women’s Day Awards are about unearthing stories about the people who lead with authenticity, courage, and care. From championing women in STEM to creating inclusive spaces, these winners show what’s possible when leadership and values come together. It is a very proud moment for me and the entire crew at Kinetic IT.”
Recognising a woman at Kinetic IT who consistently demonstrates excellence, impact and leadership, inspiring those around her
Karina Bourne is recognised for her consistent excellence and values-led leadership, balancing strong commercial outcomes with genuine care for people and community.
As an Account Director, Karina leads with inclusion at the centre – embedding social impact and equity into the way work is delivered. She actively supports inclusive procurement and meaningful engagement with First Nations businesses, while championing opportunities for women in STEM and under- represented groups across the industry.
Karina also leads with heart. Through initiatives such as the NeuroSpicy KNOT, she has helped create safe and supportive spaces where people feel seen, valued and empowered to bring their whole selves to work.
Her authenticity, advocacy and commitment to building inclusive communities make her a deserving recipient of the 2026 IWD Award
“I’m truly grateful for the recognition, even if it’s uncomfortable,” Karina shared. “I hope this award encourages more women to step out of their comfort zones, be themselves and to support one another. Making space for women’s voices – and making it easier for them to be heard – is essential for our industry’s future.”
Celebrating an individual who shows significant leadership potential, initiative and commitment to growth
Ananda Goddard-Dryden is recognised as this year’s Emerging Leader for her passion, initiative and growing impact — particularly through her leadership in community and STEM advocacy.
She has made a significant contribution through her work with WiTWA Regional TechTrails, delivering workshops to students across regional Western Australia. Through these sessions, Ananda helps young people explore STEM pathways and understand the role technology plays in everyday life.
Ananda also proudly represents Kinetic IT in community forums, sharing her own non-linear career journey to demonstrate that there is no single path into the technology industry.
Her authenticity, energy and commitment to giving back — especially to women and girls — mark her as a powerful emerging leader and role model for future generations.
“I’m proud to receive the Emerging Leader Award and excited to keep building on this momentum as I continue to grow and make a meaningful impact.”
Recognising individuals who actively advance gender equity through advocacy, influence and action.
Andrew Haines is recognised for his genuine and consistent allyship, and the everyday actions he takes to support women and people from diverse communities.
Andrew leads by example — speaking up, sharing the load, checking in with colleagues and using his influence to champion others when opportunities arise.
His approach to allyship is practical, people-centred and deeply grounded in respect. Rather than seeking recognition, Andrew focuses on creating environments where others feel supported and empowered to succeed.
Beyond Kinetic IT, Andrew also contributes to inclusion through community and STEM advocacy, including his volunteer work with the not-for-profit Western Australian Innovation, Technology & Talent Alliance (WAITTA).
His quiet but powerful commitment to allyship reflects the true spirit of the Allyship in Action Award.
“I’m really humbled by the recognition,” Andrew said. “In many ways it feels a little strange to be recognised for something that should simply be part of how we all show up at work, supporting each other and making space for different perspectives. I’m so grateful to be part of a team and a company that genuinely values that.”
Recognising individuals or teams who actively advance gender equity through advocacy, influence and action.
The Talent Acquisition & Mobilisation Team, led by Yahna Lever, is recognised for embedding inclusion into one of Kinetic IT’s most powerful levers for change: recruitment.
The team consistently and intentionally challenges traditional sourcing practices, widening talent pools and addressing bias — particularly in headhunting and passive recruitment processes.
Rather than treating inclusion as a one-off initiative, they have embedded it into everyday ways of working. From influencing hiring conversations to holding steady to equity goals, the team has helped create genuine pathways for women to access, progress and lead at Kinetic IT.
Their sustained, values-led approach has delivered real and measurable impact across the organisation. “I’m so proud to see the team recognised for their dedication to gender equity,” Yahna said. While recruitment is our core function, driving measurable change through the sourcing and hiring of female talent in this industry, is a significant challenge that requires persistence and determination.”
Congratulations to the team members recognised in this win: Alex McPhail, Bianca Gabalfin, Jackie Berry, Lesley George, Maddison Glass, Marilyn Rowling, Pippa Valler, Shannen Dunleavy and Zen Huang.
Each of this year’s winners embodies the spirit of “Balance the Scales” – not through grand gestures, but through meaningful action, everyday leadership and a genuine commitment to creating a more inclusive workforce.
We’d also like to acknowledge all nominees and finalists. Being nominated is a powerful recognition in itself, and every submission shared a story of impact, allyship and progress.
Find out more about Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Kinetic IT.
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