Auto Women has announced round two recipients of its 2025 Auto Women Professional Development Scholarships, recognising outstanding women who are committed to growing their skills, advancing their careers, and strengthening the future of Australia’s automotive industry. Kameka Little, from Milini’s Panel, Paint and Towing, has been awarded the Leading Edge Scholarship, and Briohny de Vere, owner of Accelerate Auto Electrics, has received the Executive Ready Scholarship.
Supported by MTA Queensland, Care Super, and Women & Leadership Australia, the Auto Women Scholarships support women in both early-career positions and leadership roles as they advance their careers within the automotive industry.
The Leading Edge Scholarship, valued at over $4,500, is designed for women in early-career positions to develop the essential leadership skills to become confident, capable, and effective leaders. This scholarship has been awarded to Little, Head Spray Painter at Milini’s Panel, Paint and Towing.
Having completed her Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology just two years earlier, Little has already fast-tracked her career into leading a small team, providing guidance and mentorship to an apprentice and fellow tradesman. Whilst Little is already proving herself a capable and confident leader, she is most excited to embed the course knowledge into real-world behaviour – from improving communication, managing different personalities, and setting clear expectations under pressure.
“As a woman in a male-dominated trade, I am also passionate about showing what is possible through hard work and determination. I want to be a role model for other young women considering a career in automotive, demonstrating that leadership is about skill, attitude, and the willingness to step up. By developing my leadership through this program, I hope to inspire others to see the opportunities that exist in this industry and feel confident pursuing them,” Little said.
The Executive Ready Scholarship, valued at over $10,000, is designed for women in mid to senior positions to develop the leadership skills, behaviours, and mindsets to lead high-performing teams and step into more senior roles. This scholarship has been awarded to de Vere, co-founder and owner of Accelerate Auto Electrics and Accelerate Off-Grid Touring.
As co-owner, de Vere is the driving force behind the company’s growth and culture. She has built systems, teams, and partnerships that have positioned Accelerate as an industry leader, while also continually championing diversity, mentoring young women in automotive, and investing in apprenticeships and training opportunities for her team.
As a 2025 MTA Queensland Women in Industry Award finalist, de Vere has been recognised state-wide as a leading influence in driving change for women in the automotive industry. Her story is one of persistence, adaptability, and vision – from answering phones as a teenager to co-leading one of Queensland’s most innovative automotive businesses, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her industry and her people. She has broken barriers, built pathways for others, and proven that women’s leadership is essential to the future of automotive.
“The Auto Women Executive Ready Scholarship presents an opportunity for me to take my leadership to the next level. The formal executive training will refine my leadership skills and strengthen my strategic impact. With this Scholarship, I will be better equipped to guide my team of 25 through the next phase of growth, embrace emerging technologies, and advocate more powerfully for diversity in automotive,” de Vere said.
Auto Women co-founder Kellie Dewar highlighted the importance of continuing to invest in women’s professional development, noting that industry transformation and continuity rely on diversity and equitable access to training.
“Every woman who applied is contributing to change in our industry,” she said.
“Our scholarship recipients have shown incredible passion, drive, and commitment to building their skills, and we’re proud to support their journey. These scholarships are not just about training - they’re about creating opportunity, confidence, and long-term impact.
“When we invest in women, we invest in the industry.”
The 2026, round one Auto Women Scholarships will open March 1, 2026. Find out more here.