Seven young women from across Australia have commenced the 2026–2027 Young Catholic Women’s Fellowship, a two-year program of academic, spiritual and missionary formation offered by the Catholic Bishops of Australia.

The Fellowship supports women to grow as leaders for mission in the Church and the wider community, including study through Australian Catholic University’s Women’s Leadership for Mission program.

In this edition of our newsletter, we introduce the seven Fellowship participants, who share their hopes for the program.

Alyssa Markmann

Alyssa Markmann, 28, lives in the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn and works as a Religious Education teacher and Pastoral Care Coordinator at a girls’ school. She holds a Bachelor of Teaching and a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Religious Studies. Alyssa is actively involved in parish music ministry and serves on the Canberra and Goulburn Catholic Women’s Taskforce and the Archdiocesan Discernment Council.

“Participation in the Fellowship will allow me to journey with other women of faith as I deepen my relationship with God and reflect more intentionally on how I am called to serve. Having a consistent community for prayer, reflection, and conversation will be a great source of strength as we continue to grow as a truly communal Church.”

Anastasia Badaoui

Anastasia Badaoui, 29, lives in the Diocese of Parramatta and has been married for three-and-a-half years. She has served as a youth leader in her parish for the past decade and is deeply committed to accompanying young people in their faith journey. Professionally, Anastasia works as a manager in a large global consulting firm, where she thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment that values excellence and problem-solving.

“My passion and deep care for people has always been a key part of my expression of faith, informed by my parents, grandparents and extended family. I have always felt firmly that the Holy Spirit has guided me throughout all aspects of my life, both personal and professional, and now, as we journey together towards a synodal Church, I hope this Fellowship will be a step towards guiding me into this next season of life, ministry and vocation.”

Ann Boutros

Ann Boutros, 27, belongs to the Maronite Eparchy of Australia and is engaged in Catholic education. She holds a Master of Primary Teaching and a Graduate Certificate of Religious Education. Before becoming an educator, she worked as a nurse. Ann has a strong desire to support the faith and formation of young people and is committed to growing as a leader within the Church.

“I hope to deepen my knowledge of the faith through further study and to connect with like-minded women who love the Lord. I am especially looking forward to igniting the gift of leadership within us as we journey together.”

Brigid Connolly

Brigid Connolly, 25, lives in Bundaberg in the Diocese of Rockhampton and is a teacher at a Catholic primary school. She holds a Bachelor of Primary Education and will soon commence postgraduate studies in theology, followed by a Master of Education. Brigid has a strong interest in faith formation and youth engagement, particularly in responding to the challenges facing young people in contemporary Australian society.

“I hope to grow in theological depth and develop skills in fostering a faith-filled community of women, particularly within school environments. I am greatly looking forward to journeying alongside like-minded women and sharing in each other’s faith journeys.”

Felicia Adikea

Felicia Adikea, 28, lives in the Archdiocese of Adelaide and holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology. She is an active leader and volunteer within her local parishes and ecclesial communities, with previous professional experience in interfaith diplomacy and migrant labour. Felicia now feels a strong call to accompany young Catholics through sustained fellowship, formation and mission.

“I hope to be supported in boldly aligning with my individual call to mission, translating my professional experience, lived realities and spiritual gifts into practical action. I am especially hopeful to be equipped for ministry contexts during this exciting season of renewal in the Church.”

Natalie Lim

Natalie Lim, 27, lives in the Diocese of Darwin and works as a clinical psychologist. Her professional experience includes supporting individuals facing mental health challenges across a range of settings. She is passionate about fostering resilience, affirming human dignity and helping others recognise their God-given potential.

“I am excited to be part of the Young Catholic Women’s Fellowship and to journey alongside these women over the next two years. I am particularly looking forward to deepening my identity as a daughter of God and bringing this sense of hope and light into the life of the Church and the people I encounter.”

Teresa Winata

Teresa Winata, 32, lives in the Archdiocese of Sydney and works as Assistant Director of Research and Evaluation with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. She holds a Bachelor of Medical Science and a Master of Public Health, with a professional background in public health and health services research. Teresa is passionate about improving quality of life and supporting young people through faith-based leadership and formation initiatives.

“I am looking forward to growing in leadership alongside other faith-filled young women and learning how to better integrate faith, service, and professional life. I am especially excited to deepen my understanding of mission and community, and to explore how we can meaningfully contribute to the life of the Church over the next two years and beyond.”