The last week of August brought a nostalgic air to the YWCA Hunter as a very special visitor, Jillian Grant (nee Cameron), walked back through its doors. For those who knew her, Jillian holds a significant place in the history of the Newcastle YWCA, where she began her journey as the first youth worker trainee back in 1963 under the guidance of Muriel White, then General Secretary.
Jillian’s arrival in Newcastle from Sydney marked the start of her role as the Junior Activities Secretary at the YWCA Hunter Region. At the young age of 19, she embarked on a two-year YWCA social worker training course, a combination of practical experience in Newcastle and a correspondence course from the YWCA National Headquarters in Melbourne.
During her tenure, Jillian was instrumental in pioneering several initiatives, notably setting up the region’s first Charm School. This innovative program included a variety of activities aimed at personal development, such as hostessing, etiquette classes, conversational skills, gymnastics, and talks by guest speakers. Her dedication and vision helped shape a nurturing environment for young women, providing them with skills and confidence to navigate the world beyond.
Upon completing her training, Jillian was assigned to Canberra to further expand women’s and children’s programs within the YWCA. Her journey of service didn’t stop there; she went on to hold leadership positions at several prominent community organisations, including a noteworthy tenure as CEO of Northside Community Services in Canberra. Her career path later led her to spend seven impactful years managing programs in remote Indigenous communities, showcasing her commitment to equity and social justice.
Jillian Grant’s contributions spanned decades, reflecting her unwavering dedication to community service and empowerment. Her retirement in her 70s marked the conclusion of a remarkable career marked by leadership, compassion, and a profound impact on the lives of many.
When Jillian returned to the YWCA Hunter, she expressed, “I am deeply grateful for the support and encouragement I received from the Y.” Her visit not only marked a return but also symbolized a testament to a legacy of service that remains a source of inspiration. From her beginnings as a youth worker trainee in Newcastle to her subsequent role as a prominent leader in community services, Jillian’s journey stands as a beacon of hope and possibility for upcoming generations of social workers and community advocates.
In celebrating Jillian Grant’s return, the YWCA Hunter Region also celebrates the enduring values of compassion, empowerment, and leadership that she exemplifies. Her story is a reminder of the transformative power of dedication and service, echoing through the halls where she first began her remarkable journey over six decades ago.
