COMMUNITY leader and passionate advocate Melissa Millar has been honoured with a Paul Harris Fellow recognition by the Rotary Club of Capalaba.
The prestigious award acknowledges her outstanding service and commitment to empowering women in the trades and construction industries.
Named after Rotary’s founder, the Paul Harris Fellow is one of the highest honours Rotary can bestow.
It recognises individuals whose contributions reflect the organisation’s mission to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through health, education and poverty alleviation.
Ms Millar, founder of Women of Trades + Industry, said she was “very honoured” to receive the recognition.
“It was very unexpected. Rotary have always been a great support to what we are trying to achieve,” she said.
“This recognition goes towards my whole team.
“We are proud to have been able to provide over 120 people with meaningful employment mentorship through our various programs last year.
“Without the support from Rotary, I simply could not do what I do best.”
Driven by a passion for helping women realise their potential in career, finance and personal growth, Ms Millar launched Women of Trades + Industry to address a critical gap in the sector: limited opportunities for women – particularly those unable to commit to a traditional four-year apprenticeship.
Her innovative solution was to create a flexible workplace model and employment pathway that welcomed all levels of experience and availability, from 15-hour weeks to school-hours roles.
The model allows women to “test the waters” in the industry, building skills and confidence in a supportive environment before transitioning into further training or long-term employment.
The employment programs she developed are designed to foster job readiness, build self-belief, and match participants with roles aligned to their strengths and capabilities.
“She is incredibly proud of the team she has assembled and admires their resilience, individuality and their ability to push beyond personal limits, even when faced with challenging circumstances,” the Club’s citation read.
Rotary International donated $US1000 to The Rotary Foundation in Ms Millar’s name, supporting projects worldwide – from providing clean water to launching anti-bullying campaigns and protecting children from polio.
Club representative Colin Sutcliffe said the Rotary Club of Capalaba was proud to honour Ms Millar’s tireless work in building a more inclusive and empowered community – both locally and beyond.
“Once again, well done on a thoroughly deserved recognition,” he said. “You might like to share this with family, friends and colleagues – especially when asked about what the Paul Harris Fellow means.”
Ms Millar now joins the ranks of past Paul Harris Fellows, including US President Jimmy Carter and polio vaccine pioneer Dr Jonas Salk.
