Second term councillor, Cr Kanchan Ranadive, has called the Hunter Valley her home for 20 years after making a move from Pune, India, in 2002. According to Kanchan, Maitland and Pune are similar cities: rich in culture and history, yet modern.
An engaged member of the local community, Kanchan is involved in local Indian-Australian community groups, the Rutherford Rotary club, and organisations that help get young people and women into work when they need an extra hand.
One of her passions is doing her bit to encourage more women to enter jobs in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).
‘I’ve always liked to work and be involved in the community, but being on Council gives me a formal way to represent the people of the community to enable and inspire participation, development, and sustainability for a strong community.
‘As a Councillor, I can be more engaged with people to help bring about positive change. One of the things I’m really passionate about is balancing economic sustainability with infrastructure and the development of Maitland.’
Kanchan loves the diversity of Maitland across the board in things like sport, art, industry, heritage, and the people who call our city home. She's proud to be a part of the community and loves Maitland’s rich heritage