Running a demanding small business and at the same time caring for her daughter, Maisie is among Ms MacRae’s most difficulty challenges and she is willing to share with people in similar situations.
The Central Coast mother has been publicly sharing her life experiences so that other families will not feel alone, often touching on difficult conversations concerning gaps in the provision of health services and welfare of people with disabilities.
Her journey has been talked about and this year she has been shortlisted by a global movement recognising women from all parts of the world taking steps to make changes in the lives of others.
She is now among few women finalists from Australia for the 2024 Women Changing the World Awards nominated in the Health Services category.
The other finalists were shortlisted in various categories in the fields of sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, technology, product development, business, health, education and innovation.
Only a few exceptional women in their fields or industry are nominated in this worldwide initiative.
The Women Changing the World Awards is led by the Duchess of York and philanthropist Sarah Ferguson, women’s advocate Dr Tererai Trent, a child bride in Zimbabwe who became a prominent campaigner to educate impoverished young women in rural parts of Africa and is helped by media celebrity Oprah Winfrey and leading Australian women entrepreneurs Peace Mitchell and Katy Garner, who both co-founded the AusMumpreneurs and Women’s Business School.
Ms Macrae was nominated following her advocacy work and as a service provider in NSW for the Australian government’s National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Ms MacRae founded the 24/7 Care Disability Services & Activity Hub to provide a broad range of support services for people with disabilities addressing complex needs, delivering high-quality care and support to individuals facing various health and social challenges.
“My personal journey as a caregiver and advocate for my daughter adds depth and authenticity to my work, fuelling my passion for advocacy and driving my commitment to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others,” Ms MacRae said.
“As a mother of a child with complex disabilities, I bring a unique perspective and firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families in navigating healthcare and social services.
“I aspire to lead initiatives that drive positive change, dismantle barriers, and ensure equitable access to care for all individuals, regardless of background or circumstance.
“My goal is to inspire others, foster welcoming and inclusive environments, and make a lasting impact on the lives of our vulnerable populations.”
Operating her business in Tuggerah, also extending services to some parts of Greater Sydney, Ms MacRae said she has utilised technology and innovation to collaborate with health care professional staff and clients under the NDIS.
“I’ve aimed to create a future where every individual can lead a fulfilling and independent life and continue to make an impact,” she said.
“My vision for the future is to look ahead, my big picture vision is to continue championing inclusivity and empowerment in the healthcare and social services sector.”
Ms MacRae said her company had been pioneering innovative programs on disability care and advocating for policy changes that foster inclusivity and equality in health care.
Those approaches to problem-solving and commitment to inclusivity has been the proven track record that Ms MacRae said had helped her “achieve success as a true leader in my field.”
To know more about the Australian finalists and winners in various categories in the 2024 Women Changing the World Awards announced in London, UK on May 25, visit https://wcwawards.com/finalists/
For more details about 24/7 Care Disability Services & Activity Hub, visit https://247careservices.com.au/about/.
