Every year, Habitat for Humanity Australia honours an exceptional individual whose dedication and commitment to volunteering have significantly impacted communities both locally and abroad. In 2024, we are proud to celebrate Mary Zahariou as our Volunteer of the Year.
A Legendary Legacy
Mary Zahariou’s journey with Habitat for Humanity Australia began in 2011 when she embarked on her first Global Village build. Over the years, her passion and dedication have seen her participate in 10 Global Village builds, with her most recent project taking place in Indonesia in June 2024. In total, Mary has generously contributed over 350 volunteer hours in the past year alone.
Mary’s efforts on the ground are nothing short of inspiring. During a recent build in Cambodia in 2023, Mary’s work ethic, positive attitude, and collaborative spirit stood out. She supported her team leader in managing a group of 40 volunteers, proving herself invaluable with her experience and enthusiasm. Her unwavering commitment to the success of every project exemplifies the our core values.
A Fundraising Superstar
Mary’s impact extends beyond the physical labour she contributes during builds. Over the years, she has raised and personally contributed more than $18,000 towards Global Village programs. This financial dedication is a commitment to her belief in our mission, where everyone has safe and decent place to live.
A Role Model and Leader
Mary’s dedication has not gone unnoticed by her peers and team leaders. She has been widely recommended for a leadership role within our volunteer programs. Her ability to inspire and support others, coupled with her deep understanding of Habitat for Humanity Australia’s work, positions her as an exemplary candidate for mentoring and leading future volunteer teams.
Why Mary Zahariou Volunteers
Mary’s commitment to Habitat for Humanity Australia stems from her belief in creating tangible change. For her, volunteering is not just about building homes but about building hope and fostering connections across cultures. She embodies the ethos of
A Well-Deserved Honour
The Volunteer of the Year Award is reserved for individuals who go above and beyond in their service to Habitat for Humanity Australia. Mary Zahariou’s significant contribution, both in time and resources set her apart as a shining example of what it means to be a dedicated volunteer.
As we celebrate Mary’s achievements, we are reminded of the collective power of volunteers in driving forward Habitat for Humanity Australia’s mission. Mary’s story is one of hope, resilience, and the profound impact of selfless service. Mary is a reminder that volunteers are the heart of our organisation.
Congratulations, Mary Zahariou, on being named Habitat for Humanity Australia’s Volunteer of the Year 2024. Your work inspires us all to dream bigger, work harder, and make the world a better place for those in need.
What Mary shared with us
Habitat for Humanity Australia, demonstrating that one person’s passion and perseverance can empower entire communities.
“Thank you to Habitat for Humanity Australia for this incredible recognition.
When I began my association with Habitat for Humanity Australia I did so without seeking personal recognition, choosing instead to let the foundation work speak for itself.
Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity Australia has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. The work we do together makes such a difference in the lives of those we assist and I feel privileged to be a part of such a dedicated and passionate community.
But this award is not really about me, it is a reflection of the collective effort of all the amazing volunteers and staff who make the mission of Habitat for Humanity Australia come to life. Each build has been unique and memorable and the friendships I have made along the way have been remarkable and have enriched my life.
All volunteers radiate kindness and humility, otherwise we would not be participants in this cause.
Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to such meaningful work, which has given purpose to my life.
This recognition inspires me to continue giving my time and energy to support those in need and I am excited to keep working alongside all of you to further our impact in the community. Seeing firsthand the personal challenges faced by families and witnessing their resilience, grounds us all and reinforces how blessed we all are for what we have in our lives.
Once again, thank you for this wonderful honour. As you know, I am reluctant of the spotlight and prefer silent admiration….but I am truly appreciative of the recognition and look forward to continuing to work together to create a positive change wherever we are called to assist with hard hats and working gloves.
Thank you Dan and Habitat for Humanity Australia.”
To find out more about our honour board and awards visit: https://habitat.org.au/about/honour-board/
