This International Women’s Week, we are celebrating the incredible women who help shape and strengthen our organisation. Through their leadership, dedication and passion for youth development, they inspire the next generation to grow in confidence, curiosity and courage.
From mentoring cadets and developing educational programs to supporting events and building community, these women show that leadership takes many forms, and that every contribution helps create opportunities for young people to thrive.
Trained Officer Shaylene Aylward
This International Women’s Week, we’re proud to celebrate Shaylene Aylward, a founding member whose passion, initiative and community spirit helped shape our organisation from the very beginning. As one of the original committee members, Shaylene recognised the impact our work could have on the community and brought forward the energy and ideas needed to turn that vision into action.
Through her creativity and dedication, Shaylene explored and introduced practical fundraising strategies that allowed the organisation to grow and support more members and Units. Her enthusiasm was contagious, inspiring others to step forward and lead their own fundraising efforts. Shaylene showed that leadership isn’t just about holding a role – it’s about lifting others up and empowering them to contribute.
Even after stepping back from the committee to focus on raising her young family, Shaylene has remained actively involved in meetings and continues to support the organisation she helped build. Her commitment reminds us that women can lead, inspire, and create lasting change at every stage of life. We are proud to have Shaylene as part of our community, and we hope her story inspires the next generation of young women to believe in their ideas, take initiative, and make a difference.
Captain Daniella Walker
Captain Daniella Walker is a leader whose dedication to education, mentorship and service continues to inspire those around her every day. As the Commanding Officer of the Illawarra Orions Unit, Daniella brings passion and purpose to everything she does, helping young people grow in confidence, knowledge and leadership.
Drawing on her background as a primary teacher with a Master’s in Teaching, Daniella has played a key role in shaping educational opportunities across the organisation. From developing learning modules and exams for the National Leadership Team, to helping establish awards, procedures and policies through the Awards Sub-Committee, her work ensures cadets across all units have access to meaningful and engaging learning experiences. Her hands-on teaching approach reflects her belief that learning should empower young people to explore their potential and develop real-world skills.
Daniella’s journey began as a cadet herself, and her return as an officer in 2022 demonstrates the lasting impact youth organisations can have. Rising from Unit Training Officer to Captain in 2025, she continues to lead by example — supporting training at camps and events while helping shape the future of education within the organisation. Her story reminds young women that leadership can grow from passion, dedication and a commitment to supporting others.
Lieutenant Sharon Smith
This International Women’s Week, we recognise Lieutenant Sharon Smith for her decades of dedication to supporting and mentoring young people. As the Unit Staff Officer at the Illawarra Orions Unit, Sharon plays a vital role behind the scenes, managing administration, supporting recruitment, and helping ensure events run smoothly for cadets and staff alike.
Sharon’s commitment to youth development spans many years, serving in similar organisations in the past, and now within ACC. After leading the unit as Captain for several years, she stepped into an administrative role in 2025 to continue supporting the team in a new way. Through countless hours of volunteer service, Sharon has demonstrated that leadership is not only about titles, but about consistency, care, and a lasting commitment to helping the next generation grow.
Lieutenant Sophia Poole
To conclude our International Women’s Week spotlight, we recognise Lieutenant Sophia Poole for the passion and expertise she brings to the Illawarra Orions Unit. As Unit Training Officer, Sophia leads the delivery of education within the unit, sharing her knowledge of aviation and science to inspire cadets who are eager to learn about the world of flight.
A pilot herself, Sophia brings real-world experience into her teaching, helping cadets connect their interests with practical learning. Having once been a cadet before returning as an officer, she understands the value of mentorship and encouragement. Promoted to Unit Training Officer in 2025, she continues to support the unit through training, recruitment, media contributions, and preparations for the upcoming Wings Over Shellharbour airshow.
