The 2025 SA Women of Impact Award Winners

The Office for Women has honoured four amazing women through the first-ever SA Women of Impact Awards. The awards celebrate women creating positive change in their communities across four categories.

The winners were announced during a ceremony at Government House on 22 September 2025.

Impact in Industry Award Winner Ann Buesnel

Ann Buesnel has served the state for the past 26 years working as a highly skilled leader on the frontline of fires and emergencies. As Assistant Chief Fire Officer at the Country Fire Service (CFS) her hard work, commitment to learning and passion have contributed to securing better outcomes for communities during times of crisis.

Impact in the Community Award Winner Tiahni Adamson

Tiahni Adamson, a proud descendant of the Kaurareg Nations, is a nationally recognised conservation biologist, science communicator, and advocate for climate justice. As National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Engagement Manager at Bush Heritage Australia, she partners with traditional Owners to embed cultural governance in land management. Tiahni was also the 2024 Young South Australian of the Year.

Aboriginal Impact Award Winner Jade Wilson

Jade Wilson, a proud Ngarrindjeri, Arabana and Pitjantjatjara woman, is currently working as the Deputy Director for Aboriginal Strategy at the Department of Infrastructure and Transport. She has served the public sector in various roles since starting out as a trainee at the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Commissioner more than 20 years ago. Jade is passionate about providing opportunities for Aboriginal staff, communities and businesses.

Ending Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Impact Award Winner Dr Kristina Birchmore

Dr Kristina is a social worker and manager at Cedar Health Service. Her role involves handling the service’s strategic response to domestic and family violence. Dr Birchmore has been teaching UniSA students about gendered violence and mental health since 2003.

The Women of Impact Award winners and 16 finalists were selected by an independent judging panel from more than 100 nominations.

Congratulations to all the nominees, finalists and winners!

Learn more about the SA Women of Impact Awards.