The MacKillop Institute’s Smeeta Singh named one of Australia’s most influential educators

Fiona Alston

Aug 07, 2025

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The MacKillop Institute is proud to announce that Smeeta Singh, National Program Director of Power to Kids, has been recognised as one of The Educator’s Most Influential Educators for 2025.

Following an in-depth, three-month assessment process, The Educator has honoured leaders driving positive change across Australia’s education sector. Selected from a nationwide pool of nominees, Smeeta was celebrated for her outstanding professional abilities, leadership, and far-reaching impact on schools and communities. Smeeta receives the accolade in recognition of her leadership of Power to Kids in Schools, a program supporting schools in the prevention, identification, and response to child sexual abuse. While accepting this honour, Smeeta said, “1 in 4 children in Australia experience child sexual abuse. Every institution that cares for children, whether it’s a school, childcare centre, or sporting club, has a moral and practical responsibility to lead with a culture of safety. Staff need to be empowered with the knowledge, confidence and practical tools to act early, engage families, and place children’s wellbeing at the heart of every decision. I feel privileged to lead a program like Power to Kids that supports organisations to take informed action.” When presenting the Award, Chris Sweeney, Managing Editor for Special Reports at The Educator said, “Smeeta Singh is one of the Australian education industry’s true changemakers. Her innovation and creativity are driving progress, both within her own organisation and across the entire sector. Her contribution adds value and raises the bar.” Smeeta added, “I am so proud to see the work of Power to Kids recognised for its innovation, evidence and impact. Ultimately, I receive this award on behalf of our incredible school partners who bring the program to life.” For more information about Power to Kids, visit here.

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