Your 2026 Westfield Mt Druitt Local Hero is:

Leanne Pearce

Feel the Magic

Empowering. Nurturing. Empathetic.

Leanne Pearce has been awarded a $20,000 grant for their organisation, Feel the Magic.

When children lose a parent, guardian or sibling, the right support can make a world of difference. Leanne Pearce helps ensure that support is there when families need it most.

Leanne is a reassuring point of contact at Feel the Magic, an organisation that supports young people navigating grief after the loss of a parent, guardian or sibling. Her calm approach and attention to detail ensure trauma-informed programs are delivered smoothly and on time.

As Leanne explains, her commitment is shaped by personal experience: “When my husband died unexpectedly in 2014, I was left raising five children, my youngest just 14, while navigating unimaginable grief,” says Leanne.

She adds, “The support our family received through this program gave my children a safe space to process their loss, connect with others, and feel less alone. Experiencing its impact firsthand motivates me to give back, helping other children and families find the same care, compassion, and connection.”

At a time when stability and clarity are crucial, Leanne manages program logistics, communications and coordination with compassion and responsiveness, helping families access support when they need it most.

Her work gives young people the opportunity to grieve, build support networks and stay connected with their communities, while allowing volunteers, clinicians, and program leaders to focus fully on caring for children and families.

We'd like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5,000 grant for the organisation they represent

Joanne Oliver

One Meal

Selfless. Patient. Caring

Joanne Oliver helps run a volunteer-led weekly food service for vulnerable and marginalised people, distributing nutritious meals, groceries, toiletries, clothing and toys. Helping to restore dignity among dozens of people in the local community each week, her work extends to provide wraparound services including access to medical services and housing.

Kate Pham

The WASH House

Dedicated. Kind. Resilient.

Through her work with The WASH House – a community resource centre for women in Blacktown – Kate Pham supports hundreds of women and young children affected by domestic violence. She provides a safe space, and organises support groups, counselling, legal help and activities for children.

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If you need support, please phone Lifeline: 13 11 14

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Mt Druitt nominees and their organisations.

2027 Nominations Now Open

Do you know someone making a difference in your community? Tell us in 200 words why they should be a Westfield Local Hero and they could receive a $20,000 grant for their organisation.

Find out more here