The Maine Women Writers Collection at the University of New England in southern Maine has announced the creation of The Purple Starfish Award. It will be given annually to a young woman leader under age 30 whose work and vision for a more vibrant and culturally diverse society in the state of Maine has inspired others.

The award will be given in memory of Portland native Perdita Huston, 1936-2001, who spent most of her adult life traveling the world and working for women’s rights, sustainable development, and families everywhere.

A journalist, Peace Corps official and director of several international organizations, Huston wrote four books, including “Third World Women Speak Out” and “Families as We Are: Conversations from Around the World.” Her papers are located at the Maine Women Writers Collection.

Candidates for the Purple Starfish Award will be young, female Mainers who, like Perdita Huston, work “outside the box,” are committed to multicultural values, and demonstrate strategic thinking and entrepreneurial spirit.

The Purple Starfish Award will honor Perdita Huston for her beloved Maine roots, her worldly wisdom and visionary leadership, as well as her ability and commitment to listen to and learn from people all over the world.

A cash award of $1,500 will be given to each honoree. In addition, each winner may select up to three mentors from a roster of community leaders who will be available during the year of her award to help her consolidate and-or expand her work.

Initial funding for the award is provided by the Lillian M. Berliawsky Charitable Trust. Fiscal sponsorship is provided by the Maine Women Writers Collection at the University of New England, and awardees will be selected by a diverse committee of friends and admirers of Perdita Huston.

Nominations for the award are invited from any Maine resident and are due March 1. Nomination forms and additional award information may be found at www.une.edu.

The award will be presented on April 28 at the fourth annual NAACP Celebration of Excellence in Education Ceremony at the Eastland Park Hotel in Portland with Gov. John Baldacci in attendance.

The Purple Starfish Award is named for a line from “Perdita,” a play written and performed throughout Maine and elsewhere by Huston’s son, Pierre Marc Diennet.

“Have you ever seen anything as precious as a purple starfish? You and me, kiddo, we’re the purple starfish of this family. We’re just different. I admire you. You’re so brave. You’re doing just fine. You keep it up. Walk out and make your own life.”