Australian Social Entrepreneur Of The Year

Melinda Cruz, founder and CEO of Miracle Babies Foundation, has been named the 2011 Australian Ernst & Young Social Entrepreneur Of The Year winner.

In response to her award Melinda stated "I'm extremely delighted at winning this award. It is a brilliant program to be a part of. To also receive a donation of $103K to Miracle Babies Foundation from the auction proceeds was absolutely overwhelming. Thank you to everyone involved.”

Ernst & Young announced the winners last night at a gala awards dinner held in Melbourne.

Melinda Cruz impressed the 9 member judging panel, which selected Miracle Babies Foundation’s CEO based on 6 categories: Entrepreneurial spirit, Innovation, Personal integrity and influence, Financial performance, Strategic direction, and National and global impact.

The judges said Melinda “had displayed incredible entrepreneurial spirit in building Miracle Babies into a national network with very little financial support. Melinda’s triumph over hardship and determination to provide support for thousands of families is truly inspiring”.

The full list of 2011 Entrepreneur Of The Year national category winners, announced last night are:

• Emerging – Brian Siemsen, The Siemsen Group
• Industry –  Naomi Simson, RedBalloon
• Services – David McMahon, McMahon Services
• Technology – Matt Barrie, Freelancer.com
• Listed – Michael Malone, iiNet
• Social – Melinda Cruz, Miracle Babies Foundation

Congratulating the winners, Ernst & Young Oceania CEO and Area Managing Partner Rob McLeod said entrepreneurs played a pivotal role for society, creating the jobs, growth and innovation essential for a robust economy.

“This is the 11th year of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year awards in Australia and we are pleased to help recognise and celebrate the significant contribution entrepreneurs make to our business communities.

For more information on the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year program go to www.eoy.ey.com.au

About Ernst & Young 

Ernst & Young is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. Worldwide, our 152,000 people are united by our shared values and an unwavering commitment to quality. We make a difference by helping our people, our clients and our wider communities achieve their potential.

Ernst & Young refers to the global organisation of member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. For more information about our organization, please visit www.ey.com