Nicole Kiss OAM has experienced significant setbacks throughout her adult life that have drastically diverted her from her intended course. Each new challenge has strengthened her conviction that it is only through compassion, equity and unity that a society can thrive.
Nicole is an advocate in her community for those experiencing difficulties and vulnerability, and her influence moves way beyond the borders of the Cowra Shire, where she lives. Nicole is a local councillor, Vice-President of the State Board of Neighbourhood Watch NSW, Vice-Chair of Cowra Information and Neighbourhood Centre, and on numerous other local boards. Following the stillbirth of her daughter 12 years ago, Nicole founded a not-for-profit auspice providing hospitals with burial clothing for babies. Her organisation now supplies more than 200 hospitals across Australia.
Nicole has received multiple awards from her local community for her citizenship, and in 2018 received an Order of Australia Medal for Service to her community. In her words, ‘There is nothing more rewarding than helping others to improve their circumstances, knowing that your input will have a flow-on effect. Volunteering is a privilege.’