Meet the 2025 Fred Hollows Humanitarian of the Year: Marie Tesoriero

On Monday 10 November, at a prestigious ceremony held at the University of Sydney, The Fred Hollows Foundation proudly recognised Marie Tesoriero as the 2025 Fred Hollows Humanitarian of the Year. 

Marie is a passionate disability advocate and unstoppable fundraiser whose creativity and determination have inspired people across Australia and around the world. 

Born with multiple disabilities and undergoing three major surgeries as a child at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Marie knows firsthand the power of care and community. Today, she gives back with extraordinary generosity. Through her social enterprise, Made by Cool Marie, she handcrafts unique art pieces and donates the proceeds to support sick children and the hospital that once cared for her. 

Her impact is remarkable — more than $16,000 raised for the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation, with her creations reaching supporters as far as Germany, England, and the United States. Marie also fundraises for Meals on Wheels, Guide Dogs Australia, Parkinson’s NSW and Northcott Disability Service, and volunteers on the Bayside Council Disability Inclusion Action Plan Working Group. 

“I want to improve the lives of people with a disability,” Marie says. “Even though I have a disability, I am able and worthy. To this day, there are still people who see a person with a disability and think lesser of us. I want to show that we are capable and worthy.” 

Marie was presented with her award by The Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs and the Republic, at a ceremony hosted by the University of Sydney. 

Pictuted: The Hon Mark Thistlethwaite MP, award finalists Eyes of Hope, Marie Tesoriero and Gabi Hollows

Celebrating Our Outstanding Finalists 

Marie was selected from an inspiring group of changemakers — each one embodying the bold spirit and compassion that Fred championed. 

Eyes of Hope – Shenouda Girgis, Marc Eskander and Raj Naidu 

A mobile eye clinic delivering free, accessible eye care and glasses to people experiencing homelessness, asylum seekers and those without Medicare — breaking down barriers and restoring opportunity. 

Emma Bancroft – Principal and Community Support Leader 

A school leader who goes above and beyond to ensure no child or family is left behind, creating a compassionate network of support that fosters belonging, dignity and hope. 

Honouring Fred’s Legacy 

Fred Hollows believed in people helping people — in ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things. Marie, Shenouda, Marc, Raj and Emma remind us that spirit is alive and thriving in communities everywhere. 

Please join us in celebrating Marie and thanking all our finalists for the incredible difference they make.