A Newcastle sustainability advocate who co-founded two community-led climate action groups has become the first recipient of a scholarship in memory of former Councillor Sinéad Francis-Coan.
Interior designer Nadine Samwell said she hopes to use the training she receives through Women’s Environmental Leadership Australia (WELA) to inspire practical change in people for the benefit of the planet.
Past and present Greens Councillors join Lyndall Coan to congratulate Nadine Samwell who received the first scholarship created in memory of former Councillor Sinéad Francis-Coan.Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said the scholarship is the perfect embodiment of Sinéad.
“Sinéad was always looking for ways to share her change-making skills with women and gender diverse community members who have that fire in their bellies for change that she had,” Cr McCabe said.
“The problems we face can be overwhelming, but with the right tools and support, advocates for change can make a huge difference. Sinéad definitely demonstrated that throughout her life.
“It’s especially meaningful to announce the first recipient of one of three scholarships that City of Newcastle is funding to honour the three years that Sinéad would have been serving as a Councillor.”
The scholarship was established through a unanimous notice of motion by the elected Council following the sudden passing of Cr Francis-Coan partway through her first term as a Ward 3 Councillor.
City of Newcastle is funding the initiative for the next three years, providing women and gender-diverse changemakers connected to Newcastle the chance to participate in WELA’s transformative national leadership programs.
Through her business, Ms Samwell uses the principles of circular design to keep materials in use for longer, maximising their value and minimising waste.
Her community-led action includes helping to form the Hunter Region Branch of Renew, a national, not-for-profit organisation that advocates for people to live sustainably in their homes and communities.
After taking part in City of Newcastle’s Empowering Climate Champions program, Ms Samwell formed another group that funded an energy assessor who visited Mayfield homeowners and provided advice on how to lower their carbon footprint and save money on energy costs.
Ms Samwell said she is honoured to receive a scholarship inspired by Sinéad’s substantial contributions towards social equality, feminism and environmental sustainability.
“I’ve already started taking part in the WELA program and so far it’s been a lifechanging experience. I am determined to make the absolute most of the opportunity it provides me,” Ms Samwell said.
“I want to use this training to strengthen my leadership, deepen my contribution to climate and environmental action and grow into the kind of leader who inspires practical change for people and the planet.
“I launched Eco Edition in 2020 to help architects and designers who are trying to make more sustainable and healthier material choices, wanting to pass on the knowledge I’d gained from 15 years as an interior designer and a renovator for over 20 years.
“I now help architects and designers from around the world achieve their sustainability goals, but I’m also determined to continue to promote community-led climate action here in Newcastle.”
Before being elected to Council in 2024, Cr Francis-Coan worked as a union organiser and was deeply involved in grassroots movements focused on workers’ rights, environmental protection and gender equity.
Sinéad’s mother, Lyndall Coan, said she was pleased to see her daughter’s legacy inspiring people to develop their leadership potential.
“We congratulate Nadine on being the first recipient of this scholarship and we look forward to seeing the impact it has on her work in the future,” Ms Coan said.
“Sinéad was a tireless advocate for local businesses, especially small operations that had a focus on sustainability.
“She would be delighted that someone with Nadine’s passion has been awarded this scholarship.”
Members of the public who wish to support additional scholarships in memory of Cr Francis-Coan can donate via the WELA website