Kristie Ivone, founder of Boas Language Academy, an Albury-based social enterprise language school, has been named winner of the 2026 NSW/ACT AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.
Ivone received recognition for her role in fostering a cohesive and inclusive regional community through cultural and language exchange initiatives.
Supported by platinum sponsor Westpac, the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award is Australia’s award recognising the innovation, leadership and impact of women in rural and regional industries and communities.
With a background in international relations and regional development, Ivone’s role at Boas involves creating connections and opportunities for migrants. This is achieved through immersive language courses that encompass both language learning and teaching.
In its inaugural year, the academy engaged 14 migrant teachers – 13 of whom were women – and provided instruction to over 80 students in various languages.
Ivone has received a $15,000 Westpac grant for winning the award. With this funding, she will enhance the school’s language services by training additional migrant teachers, implementing pilot language courses, and establishing a framework to measure the impact of these initiatives on the community.
“Through Boas Language Academy, Kristie is opening doors for people to connect, contribute and feel genuinely at home in the communities where they’ve chosen to build their lives,” said Andy Kidd, Westpac regional GM, regional and agribusiness.
“Kristie’s work is a compelling example of how cultural inclusion, when done well, can transform individuals and the communities they call home,” added Brianna Casey AM at AgriFutures Australia.
