User:Bernadette Black/sandbox

Bernadette Black File:Example.jpg|Caption1

Early life and education Bernadette was born in East Melbourne, Victoria, to Carmel and Clive and is the eldest of 3 children. She was a diligent student who dreamed of one day becoming a nurse. However, these plans were temporarily abandoned as she became pregnant at the age of 16. More details of this can be found in her book ‘Brave Little Bear’ or via the website for the Brave Foundation http://www.bravefoundation.org.au/html/events/bernadette_black.html) which she and her husband Steve co-founded.

As a young mother she completed her Victorian Certificate of Education at Loyola College Bundoora, and later studied a Bachelor of Nursing Degree at Latrobe University and also a Graduate Diploma in Perioperative Nursing.

Entry into politics Elected to Kingborough Council in 2011, Bernadette is a compassionate advocate for the local community, and fights for reduced cost of living pressures, cutting red tape to support small business and creating more jobs and greater job security. She has been a member of the Australian Liberal Party since 2009. Bernadette was nominated by her party for pre-selection in 2012 for the Federal seat of Franklin which she was subsequently successfully selected.

Personal life Bernadette was born 15 June 1976 and is married to husband Steve and has 3 children. Having overcome much adversity in her life from the death of her father at a young age, to the challenges of being a teenage mother, she has never lost hope or direction for a greater tomorrow. When facing the future of as a teenage mother, Bernadette directly experienced a lack of resources and support. From her experience, Bernadette was determined she would one day write a book, as a resource for teenage girls in the future who found themselves in the same situation. To this end, her book Brave Little Bear was finally published in 2006. Bernadette’s life story is one of commitment and determination.

Achievements Bernadette is recognised for her contribution to the well-being of teenagers through the secondary school programme Gift of a Teenage Life and establishing Australia’s Charity Brave Foundation. Bernadette is also an author and has published the book, Brave Little Bear (2006). Regularly cited by anti abortion groups, this book tracks a personal journey from 16-year-old mother through to Registered Nurse and post-graduate qualifications. Small text Brave Little Bear has been distributed nationally to secondary schools, community groups and individuals. Brave Little Bear had its first edition released in 2006, second edition released in 2010. Awards
 * 2013 Finalist in Mamamia's most clickable women awards. Australia's Most Confident Woman 2012 – National Award celebrating confidence in women, voting by web poll.
 * Australia's Who's Who of Most influential Women (Crown Content 2010).
 * Bernadette was crowned Barnardo’s Australian Mother of the Year in (2009). This organisation honours mothers who make a positive difference to children and our community and the recognition rewards the importance of excellent parenting.   During 2009 Bernadette had a wonderful time being an Ambassador for Barnardo’s throughout Australia.  This award was seen as a huge honour as she was chosen from among 3000 nominations nationwide.
 * Finalist at the Australian of the Year 2009 – Australia Day Awards.
 * Bernadette is an Australian of the Year finalist (2008) for inspiring to create a better nation and is an ambassador and patron representing many community organisations.