SEQ women recognised in celebration of International Women’s Day 2023
Whether performing lifesaving surgery, pioneering in the business world or working behind the scenes in the community, we celebrate some of southeast Queensland’s most inspirational women. SEE THE LIST
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Southeast Queensland is home to some of the state’s most inspirational, successful, and hard-working women paving the way for a bright future.
In honour of International Women’s Day 2023, Quest News is celebrating the stories of some of the wonderful women helping make a difference in their communities.
From scientists to pilots, nurses to police, and dance instructors to volunteers, the women featured here, along with so many more, deserve recognition for the relentless dedication, energy (and sometimes money) they invest into serving their community.
Included in the proud cohort of amazing women leading the state is Mater neurosurgeon Amelia Jardim.
Juggling a medical career and motherhood can often be challenging, but Dr Jardim wouldn’t have it any other way.
The 38-year-old mother-of-three is a specialist neurosurgeon with experience in both adult and paediatric surgery and a particular interest in neuro-oncology, spinal surgery and complex craniofacial surgery.
“I’m not your stereotypical neurosurgeon. I don’t look like what a neurosurgeon looks like,” Dr Jardim said.
“Juggling motherhood and having a full-time career brings me joy.”
While Dr Jardim works in a male-dominated field and is the only-female neurosurgeon at the Brisbane Clinical Neuroscience Centre, she feels privileged to work among a large cohort of Queensland female neurosurgeons.
“I have been mentored by women and men throughout my medical career. As a junior doctor I looked up to many women doing neurosurgery,” Dr Jardim said.
“The male surgeons have been just as welcoming as the women and that’s really important to me – that I am seen as a surgeon, not just a female surgeon.
“I have wanted to be a neurosurgeon since I was a medical student.”
Many of Dr Jardim’s patients have spinal abnormalities, brain tumours, or skull problems.
“I operated on a baby who was just four days old with a brain tumour and it’s a really rewarding feeling when my patients come back and I can see how well they are doing,” she said.
Together with her husband Chris, a plastic surgeon, they have two young sons, John and Michael, aged 4 and 2, and their latest addition, six-month-old Camille.
Dr Jardim said becoming a neurosurgeon had given her a lot of freedom in life.
“I have the ability to design my life the way I want it. I can live this life and do this important job at work and be a parent at the same time. It’s like having the best of both worlds,” she said.
“Being able to value time with my own children has given me an incredible understanding and connection with families I look after.”
Dr Jardim described every day as different.
“I start early most days and finish at 5pm. By the time I get home and get dinner on the table I don’t have time to think about work — it’s about the boys and baby Camille,” she said.
Dr Jardim provides care to the North Lakes and Moreton Bay Region.
SEE THE LIST OF AMAZING WOMEN HERE
JO-ANN MCCONNELL
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Jo-Ann McConnell has risen through the ranks from Constable to Detective Acting Senior Sergeant, predominantly working in the areas of child abuse, youth crime, child protection offender reporting (CPOR) and has managed the suspected child abuse and neglect (SCAN) portfolios for the Logan Police District.
Senior Sergeant McConnell’s current role sees her leading the Logan New Directions Youth Support Program.
The only program of its type in southeast Queensland, the program receives referrals from multiple organisations including Youth Justice case workers, Child Safety officers and the Queensland Police Service (Youth Co-responder Team).
As a full-time member of the Logan District Child Protection Investigation Unit which comprises of more than 50 per cent women, she continually leads and mentors female investigators and civilian members in the unit.
Acting Superintendent Officer Peter Miles said she was a force in the workplace who advocated for other women.
“She has a positive influence wherever she works and continually plays an integral role for and on behalf of women to ensure that they are properly represented with fairness and equality,” Acting Supt Miles said.
“Jo-Ann has always performed her duties to the highest standard of professionalism and integrity.”
Senior Sergeant McConnell, 50, said to her, International Women’s Day was an opportunity to stop and reflect on the advancements and achievements of women generally.
“I see it is a chance to hear from and meet inspirational women from all walks of life who have overcome adversities or broken down barriers,” she said.
“In the Queensland Police Service (QPS), we hold gatherings where networking opportunities are provided and we hear from inspirational speakers who speak to their journey, discoveries, learnings and successes.
“I am keen to consider this year’s theme relating to making the digital world safer for women and young girls as an officer who has worked in the Child Protection field for over ten years.”
Senior Sergeant McConnell said she was in awe of strong women who challenge the status quo.
“Having a female mentor in the workplace or in our community provides not only inspiration but support and courage to keep tackling tough issues and continue to strive for more,” she said.
“In our community, women leaders provide a role model to all who follow in their footsteps or forge a path of their own.
“When the glass ceiling breaks, it allows others to go through and to know … ‘If they can do it, may I can too’.
“I have spent my life doubting my abilities but then I can look at women leaders and aspire to achieve my own goals using them as inspiration.”
KAREN BARTLETT
Karen Bartlett, a truly inspirational nurse and MS advocate, knew she wanted to be a nurse when she was a little girl in awe of her great aunt who worked as a nurse in the 1940s.
But it wasn’t until a life-changing doctor’s appointment more than 30 years later that Mrs Bartlett decided to pursue nursing, completing a Certificate III course, Diploma and then a university degree.
“I was diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2007. I have experienced the impact of healthcare from a different side and knew I wanted to make a difference,” she said.
“It wasn’t until I was 40 years old that I started my journey to became a nurse and the person that I always wanted to be.”
Mrs Bartlett went on to work as a nurse across Queensland hospitals for eight years before becoming an educator. She’s been teaching Certificate III students and most recently Diploma of Nursing students at Mater Education for the last three years, a role she gets a lot of satisfaction from.
“I love my job. I like teaching students the importance of having the foundations of nursing,” she said.
“If you have a strong foundation, you will thrive. I am also an advocate for both my female and male students to believe in themselves.”
Mrs Bartlett had to overcome self-doubt to learn to back herself, too.
“I never believed I was smart enough to do nursing. I left school at 15 and worked in payroll for years until my MS diagnosis and I decided I had to give nursing a go,” she said.
“My beautiful friend who passed away from a dire disease used to say to me ‘when you doubt yourself, lean on the people who believe in you. That’s where you get your inner strength from and that’s when you become fearless’.
“I live by those words and I say it to my students all the time.
“It was especially relevant to me when I was told I had MS I can remember asking my husband ‘Am I not going to be able to walk or look after my kids?’
“I just asked him to help me be the best person I could be and I leaned on him. I am very lucky that I don’t have residual issues and my MS is mostly silent.
“It is a challenge but I don’t let it rule my life.”
Mrs Bartlett is proud to be the fourth generation of female nurses in her family, with her own children following suit.
“One of my daughters is a paediatric nurse and the other is an ICU nurse,” she said.
“I also have a two-year-old granddaughter who I think will become our family’s sixth generation nurse.
“She walks around with a stethoscope and she knows where your heart is.
“I encourage them to be fearless, too.”
ROXY DIVERSI
Brisbane based mother-to-be Roxy Diversi has been the marketing and brand manager at Tommy Gun’s Original Barbershop Australia for more than six years now. She has been instrumental in growing the business into what it is today.
She graduated from QUT in 2012 and has been paving the way for women in marketing ever since.
In 2014 she was a finalist for young achiever of the year for the Australian promotional marketing awards.
According to Georgie Bulluss, Tommy Gun’s marketing and social media manager, Ms Diversi is an inspiring woman to work with.
“She’s someone I look up to personally and professionally,” she said.
“She’s an amazing mentor and great to work with.
“A great female role model to have.”
Ms Diversi is also a long term volunteer at Bribie Lifesaving Club, giving up her spare time since she was just a teenager to selflessly help others locally.
ANN STEVENS
Now the recently appointed CEO of Ramsay Clinic at New Farm, Ann Stevens has carved out a successful career for herself while being a dedicated a single mum — and is a truly inspirational role model for young women locally.
Mrs Stevens came from a humble background, working as a nurse straight out of high school, with almost no tertiary education — proving to other young women it’s not about where you start, but putting in the hard work.
In her career she has risen to the top of a series of private hospitals, including Healthscope’s Peninsula Private and Pine Rivers Private. She rose to the top through her own home-grown talents, hard work, and networking skills.
Her only son, Alex Treacy, said his mum was his role model, and that he’d spend the rest of his life aspiring to be like her.
“She was 24 when she fell pregnant and became a single mum to me,” he said.
“She told me stories of getting her paycheck from the Mater Hospital, cashing it at the bank, and squirrelling away notes in marked envelopes, to budget and make sure I had every opportunity.
“Mum has an incredible work ethic and has slowly clawed her way to a point where she is comfortable in life, helped along the way by meeting and marrying my step dad Mick, who is a four-wheel drive accessories salesman.”
The happy couple live at Virginia with their dog Simon.
“Mum continues to kick goals in her career,” her son said.
“She has recently led a conversion of underutilised space at Ramsay Clinic to allow for it to cater for inpatient adolescents as young as 14.
“A Queensland first.”
LOUISE FITZGERALD-BAKER
A property developer turned writer and speaker, this 53-year-old mother of three truly is an inspiration to many.
She wrote ‘The Pink Hard Hat’, a woman’s guide to money and life.
Louise Fitzgerald-Baker’s business Postscript Letters distils, captures and preserves people’s stories in letters (love letters, life letters and mirror letters), so their sentiments are not lost or forgotten.
“My mother was forced to leave school at Year 9 to learn a trade, all her teeth forcibly removed to save money and when she did marry, she was not able to continue working,” Mrs Fitzgerald-Baker said.
“She had little agency over her education, body or vocation. In just one generation we saw a tremendous shift.
“My sister and I were tertiary educated and I was free to change careers – from building stories to telling them.
“Now the mother of three daughters myself, I am excited to see the increased independence, choice and equity now available to women.”
KYLEE KAY
From Tallebudgera, 49-year-old Kylee Kay is the owner and managing director of Linkd Tourism.
Linkd Tourism specialises in connecting travel brands and destinations to Australian and New Zealand travellers through PR, Marketing and Sales representation services.
Ms Kay leads a team made up of mostly women in a competitive and dynamic tourism marketing and PR space, specialising in the promotion of international destinations to Australia and New Zealand.
She also leads multiple panels on inclusivity tourism.
“The tourism industry is predominantly female but with a heavy male leadership/management skew, with a 60 per cent female leadership team and encourages women to be their best selves and do it with balance and integrity always,” she said.
She’s worked in the travel industry for 35 years.
According to a work colleague, Ms Kay is an inspiring figure in the inclusive travel space because of her dedication to promoting accessibility and diversity in travel.
“She understands that travel has historically been under-represented in terms of accessibility for people with disabilities, and she is passionate about making travel accessible for everyone, regardless of their abilities,” they said.
“Kylee advocates for the importance of providing accessibility information on websites, where visitors can easily find it alongside other information about planning their visit.
“Her work serves as a reminder that travel can and should be accessible and inclusive for all.”
Ms Kay was a finalist, for employer of the year, women in travel awards in 2019, an executive committee member and president of visit USA Australia from 2016 to 2018, a member of the Australian society of travel writers, a visit USA Australia member, expo and trade liaison committee chairperson, an IPW media committee member in 2018, and a council of Australian tour operators board member in 2007.
STACEY HOLLANDS
Stacey Hollands founded Australia’s clean beauty brand, Lust Minerals, in 2014, when she was inspired to educate and provide clean beauty products to women worldwide.
A brand that once lived in her linen cupboard in her home has transformed into a global beauty brand which has values focused on educating, empowering and inspiring women worldwide to live a cleaner lifestyle.
Ms Hollands made it her mission to provide women with an alternative to synthetic and harmful chemical-based beauty products that were available in beauty outlets worldwide. Not only is she a successful entrepreneur, but she also has two children under six.
Ms Hollands’ story serves as inspiration to women who want to make a difference and leave a positive impact on the world.
“It truly inspires and empowers me to see women leading the way in our community,” Ms Hollands said.
“We’ve come a long way with gender equality, particularly in the workplace and it leaves me feeling hopeful for the future, and especially my daughter’s.”
ESTHER ARULOGUN
When it comes to caring for the elderly, the dedication of Esther Arulogun takes some topping. She has worked in aged care for 40 years.
Esther was inspired to care for the sick and elderly in Ipswich after being hospitalised numerous times as a child.
“I was always a sick child, so I wanted to become a nurse to look after sick people. I feel it is very meaningful to help the elderly,” Esther says.
In recognition of her care for seniors and contribution to the betterment of the aged care sector, Esther was presented the Lifetime of Achievement Award by Aged and Community Services Australia in 2018.
SHARON BRAND
Mansfield State School deputy principal Sharon Brand has been described by her young female teachers as ‘the most dedicated and inspiring deputy’.
Ms Brand has been a deputy principal at Mansfield State School since the beginning of 2021. Before this she worked at Middle Park State School as a deputy principal and has vast experience in educational settings across a range of schools. She has been a head of department – school improvement, master teacher, support teacher and classroom teacher with the Department of Education since 1990.
She has a passion for education, believes in the importance and value of all children and their ability to be learners, and has a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to students, their families, and staff at school.
According to the school principal Majella Frith, Ms Brand has high expectations of herself which translates into how hard she works.
“She leads by example and when Sharon commits to something, you know it will be done,” she said.
“Sharon is a caring and considerate person who is very organised and well respected across the school community. Sharon has a strong sense of justice and fairness for all. She is a trustworthy person who staff identify with and follow.
“Sharon has a deep belief in the power of teams and believes her role as a leader is to be of service to those around her. She has a talent for developing a positive, encouraging environment for creating and working on ideas. Sharon is willing to listen to the ideas of others and values that those ideas will further her own and group thinking. She is highly motivated to develop others and has pride and happiness in this growth. Sharon is talented in creating working parties with a shared sense of purpose and direction to drive an agenda.
“She understands herself, her many strengths and ways in which she might be supported by others with different talents. Sharon openly encourages feedback and regularly reflects upon her practice to improve how she works with others.”
Ms Frith said Ms Brand inspired others to go the extra mile by sharing the ‘why’ of education and providing practical and well researched advice and support for all.
“Sharon knows what she is doing and can be trusted to have everyone’s best interests at heart.
“She is balanced in her ability to understand the personal and professional roles she holds,” another staff member said.
Mansfield State School teacher, 25-year-old Mikayla Colley said Ms Brand was one of her main role models.
“She always supports extra-curricular areas including our music and arts department, chess club and instrumental music program,” Miss Colley said.
“She doesn’t criticise or chastise.
“She just wants the best for us and supports teachers to support positive student outcomes.”
MELISSA REDSELL
After experiencing the challenges and trauma of being a teen mum in southeast Queensland first-hand, Redcliffe midwife, Melissa Redsell, started a charity which has transformed the lives of young mothers in need.
A Brave Life supports young women facing a broad range of challenges from teen pregnancy to domestic violence, poverty, trauma, and homelessness.
Founder Mel Redsell, 44, of north Brisbane, has lived with the stigma of falling pregnant at 16 in regional Queensland; and is an inspiration to many young women.
“A Brave Life was founded to help young mothers break out of entrenched and challenging cycles so they can forge stronger, healthier, more stable lives,” she said.
“I know many young mums are doing it tough, including managing distressing relationships with their baby’s father, domestic violence issues, dealing with mental health challenges or insecure housing.”
RUTH LIMKIN
Alongside her role as the Founding CEO of The Banyans Health and Wellness for the last seven years, Ruth Limkin is an author, speaker and certified Professional Behavioural Analyst, Professional Motivators Analyst and Emotional Quotient Analyst, has been named as a Queensland finalist of Telstra’s Business Women’s Awards for Purpose and Social Enterprise category two years in a row (2019, 2020), and more recently been awarded the honorary title of Adjunct Professor at Torrens University Australia.
Ms Limkin faced unique challenges being a woman in leadership in areas like perception, productivity, and purpose. Often rotted and hindering the individual internally, she believes shining a light on those distinct areas can be challenging but helps women put words to their internal feelings and experiences.
She said she was passionate about creating a better tomorrow. Her experience in business, government, community and media provides Ruth with a breadth of leadership experience and an understanding of the various environments experienced by professionals and public figures. Her interest in health and holistic wellbeing springs from many years of working with those experiencing a need for support.
Having researched and written about community and social health, personal wellbeing, nutrition and food security, Ms Limkin has also worked with those experiencing stress, substance misuse or searching for a greater sense of meaning and purpose.
“In my leadership career, there have been a range of challenges I have experienced, like so many women, such as being the only female in a room during meetings, differences in perception and assumptions that you’ll make the coffee for everyone, communication style differences and the perceived limits that people apply to you,” Ms Limkin said.
“This journey has shaped my understanding of the various complexities in regards mindsets and environments experienced by female professionals and public figures. I believe shining a light on both the challenges that come with being a woman in a leadership role, and the opportunities for organisations when women participate in leadership, helps us develop intentional strategies to grow individuals and organisations.”
“Another reality that creates challenges for leaders, and particularly female leaders, is that we live in a world that has an unhealthy obsession with work, and it can almost feel irresponsible to rest.
“An important piece of advice I can offer, especially to women leaders, is to give ourselves permission to rest. After all, the science is clear that a well-rested leader is a more productive leader.”
Ms Limkin said she believed it was important for women in leadership positions to prioritise establishing healthy methods to unwind and recharge.
“Health and wellbeing comes from understanding and applying a holistic approach to productivity – to lead a team we must have a fullness of life which is enriched through caring for both ourselves and others,” she said.
“I encourage every woman in leadership to have a great psychologist or therapist that they see twice a year to do a check in and recalibrate. Just as we get our cars serviced once every six months, we must give the same attention to our soul.”
“We still have a long way to go, but we are on the journey together. And that is a very good thing.”
BEC WOOD
Scenic Rim mum, Bec Wood, inspires those around her by somehow managing to balance it all.
The 32-year-old mother works full time as a manager for a business management consultancy firm – having worked her way up since graduating university.
She has a toddler named Mason and is helping manage a farm with her husband. The couple are expanding their line of ‘Woodvale Droughtmasters’.
Alongside her full time corporate job and being a mother – Mrs Wood also manages the payroll, finance and administration work of their family business ‘Wood Rural’.
A truly inspirational young-woman, it doesn’t stop there for Mrs Wood. In her free times she competes show jumping and volunteers her time teaching local scenic rim children how to ride horses.
She also breeds show jumping horses from renowned stallions such as Black Jack and Quintago.
Her best friend said she doesn’t know anyone who’s a better role model to young women.
“What she manages to achieve in one week is astounding,” she said.
“She’s so inspiring and I just don’t understand how she manages to balance it all.
“She really is living proof women can do anything and everything.”
LEANN FAINT
Principal of Carinity Education Southside in Brisbane, which supports young women who have faced barriers to education, 50-year-old Leann Faint is as inspirational as they come.
“I am the very proud caretaker of Carinity Education Southside, a small school for disengaged young women,” Ms Faint said.
“Hopefully I inspire other women by showing that hard work, diligence and integrity is a fantastic mix with gentleness and kindness.
“They don’t have to be separate entities.”
Ms Faint said she believed it was important to see women leading the way in local communities.
“Women leaders bring unique perspectives and skills to the table that can help create more diverse and inclusive communities,” she said.
“They can champion policies and initiatives that support women and other marginalized groups, and they can serve as role models for future generations of women leaders.
“All of these factors make it incredibly important to see women leading the way in our community, and we should continue to support and encourage them in their endeavours.”
TAMMY ROBINSON
Tammy Robinson from Formally Ever After has dressed around 1,500 high school students and is an inspiration to many.
Formally Ever After is a community program in Logan which supplies free donated dresses, suits and accessories for young people struggling with the costs of attending their school formal.
The charity operates out of the home of passionate “formal fairy godmother”, Tammy Robinson. Tammy strives to show struggling young adults that “kindness is free”.
“I grew up in Woodridge and Ipswich with a single mother and we never had anything; we were very poor. I remember the times when people were kind to me and that gave me hope. Hope is what I’m giving to these students,” Tammy said.
“A lot of kids aren’t going to their school formal just because they don’t have money. Here they can get everything they need for free. When they try on clothes you see them stand taller and you see them smile.
“One Southside student who didn’t realise her dress was free started crying as she thought she was borrowing the dress and had to give it back. I get that a lot: students and parents overwhelmed because they can’t believe people can be that kind and generous and giving.”
Since establishing Formally Ever After in 2019, Tammy has dressed 1,500 high school students and 450 other vulnerable people requiring formal wear.
Tammy’s compassionate nature also flows through to supporting Brisbane seniors in her role as a lifestyle carer for Carinity Home Care.
“You’ve got to do stuff with purpose, make sure you’re using your time wisely and make it matter. I feel really blessed and happy to be able to do this,” she said.
MICHELLE GILCHRIST
Working for not-for-profit organisation the Breakfast Club at Redcliffe, Michelle Gilchrist is an inspiration to many.
“Michelle Gilchrest at Breakfast Club is incredible,” a Moreton Bay Regional Council spokesperson said.
“They’re handling a huge workload in the housing crisis right now.
“They’ll soon have a ‘sleep bus’ to help people sleeping rough and we’re building them a new homelessness hub to operate from.”
Ms Gilchrest has spearheaded the campaign to bring a SleepBus to the Redcliffe peninsula.
The mobile temporary accommodation service can provide over 7,000 safe sleeps per year for people who are doing it tough and help link them up to the support services they need.
MANDY MAYSEY
Mandy Maysey is the President of the Tourette syndrome Association Australia. She became involved with the TSAA five years ago when her three children began showing signs of Tourette syndrome.
She also works as a teacher aide in special education and has great experience campaigning for greater awareness, understanding and support for those with Tourette syndrome.
“As women in leadership roles, we have the challenge of having to remain strong and rise above our own adversity, in order to encourage and inspire other women to pursue leadership,” Ms Maysey said.
“While this is by no means an easy task, as the president of Tourette syndrome Association Australia, I consider it an honour and a privilege to be a flag-bearer for my gender.”
“As a proud mother, I hope my journey can serve as an example to other women that we do not have to forgo motherhood and other aspects of life assigned to womanhood in order to succeed. Liberating women from the bonds of misogyny and sexism doesn’t have to mean that we emulate men’s paths to success, but rather that we pave our own way, regardless of the many barriers we may face.”
Ms Maysey said she would encourage any woman who is passionate about a cause that’s important to them to aim to be a leading voice within that cause.
“I would like to see more women in leadership, particularly within the charity and not-for-profit sectors – I want our success to not only be measured in terms of monetary gain, but to be shining examples of women making meaningful changes in the world,” she said.
JUDY LINDSAY
Road safety awareness advocate Judy Lindsay has played a major role over the past decade in ensuring drivers are aware of the dangers of bad behaviour on our roads.
Ms Lindsay has been at the forefront of educating children about the consequences of poor driver behaviour, including drink driving, after her only daughter, Hayley, died at the hands of a drink driver in May 2009.
Even though her life changed forever after the horror accident, Ms Lindsay has helped government and police devise education programs to teach road safety and highlight the fatal consequences of failing to obey the road laws. Police believe through her advocacy, Ms Lindsay has helped to save thousands of lives.
ELAINE JOBSON
CEO of Jetts Fitness Australia and New Zealand, Elaine Jobson is based on the Sunshine Coast. She has spent an incredible 23 years in the fitness industry and her work has taken her across the globe. From Africa to Malaysia to finally settling here in Australia, Elaine’s diverse experience with corporate workplace culture has made her a trailblazer in the industry.
Having seen the downright ugly through to off-the-wall amazing workplaces, Ms Jobson said she understands that behind every successful business is a great culture of people. Now the CEO of Jetts Fitness Australia, Elaine has led the MBO of the organisation and prides herself on personally leading some of the most profound cultural changes in the fitness industry.
“It’s not just empowering to see women leading the way, it’s necessary,” Ms Jobson said.
“Especially in the fitness industry, which can be a male-oriented space, it’s important to recognise that women are equally as strong and capable in leadership positions.
“Despite what people initially think, the fitness sector has always been an inclusive industry to work within. Women have always played a strong role, so it’s important that we start to see females in visible positions.
“However, it’s also vital to remember, that it’s not just about being a man or a woman; it’s about a fresh set of eyes, a new perspective and diverse approaches to problem-solving. That’s what makes great organisations successful – diversity is important to any business seeking to remain relevant in today’s marketplace.”
Ms Jobson said she believes it is deadly important to have inspiring women to look up to.
“Any opportunity we have to highlight the women in leadership roles is critical, especially for young people coming through and starting out in their careers,” she said.
“Most companies, especially gyms, have female customers, and they need to be represented at every level of the business.
“Women in fitness are especially important to highlight and are excellent role models. It’s not just about working out for an aesthetic anymore, women are interested in getting strong, flexible and mobile. It’s fantastic to see this approach and why we need healthier women to look up to.”
JANE MCMILLAN
Jane McMillan was awarded an Order of Australia medal back in 2019 for her work with more than 800 leukaemia patients across the Moreton Bay region.
Ms McMillan, from Caboolture, first became an advocate in 2004 when her best friend was diagnosed with the blood cancer.
She quit her job and became a full-time carer for the single mum of two before co-founding the Leukaemia Foundation Caboolture branch in 2006 and Leukaemia Support Queensland in 2015.
Ms McMillan’s crowning achievement was establishing the haematology clinic in North Lakes so Moreton Bay patients didn’t have to travel to Brisbane for treatment.
She and many others marched from Redcliffe Hospital to Caboolture Hospital and petitioned the state government for years.
She was awarded the 2014 Moreton Bay Regional Council Australia Day Citizen of the Year and was nominated for Queensland Philanthropist of the Year in 2012 for her work.
JANELLE FORD
Founder and director of Progressive Play, Janelle Ford is an award-winning, certified and CPD accredited clinical nurse educator with more than 20 years of hands-on clinical nursing experience who holds several postgraduate degrees in various disciplines.
While initially trained in general nursing (medical/surgical) Ms Ford’s passion and focus lies within the mental health, disability, and maternal/child health sectors of which she has more than 14 years of practical experience.
During her career Ms Ford developed a love for precepting and began her progression into nurse education facilitating undergraduate nursing students (Griffith University), following that experience, she completed a ‘Certificate IV in Training and Assessment’ (along with completion of the relevant updates over the years) to continue the journey of nurse educator, she is now the director of ‘Progressive Play™ ‘ educating and delivering professional development training programs in creative therapy interventions (which are specific to the mental health / disability and education sectors) inspiring the future leaders of tomorrow to “be the change they want to see.”
MELISSA HAGEDORN
Director of Client Services at Granicus, Melissa Hagedorn is a proud Indigenous woman based in Brisbane – who has had an impressive career across digital and community engagement, as well as in the non-profit sector.
The 38-year-old is the director of client services for Australia and New Zealand at Granicus, a global company that provides digital engagement solutions for government. In this role, Ms Hagedorn is responsible for the strategic direction of service delivery, overall leadership of staff in the region and employee recognition, equality, and diversity.
She seeks to mentor and support women’s career growth in the tech sector, empowering them to overcome their insecurities, feel confident in their abilities and the roles they play in a male-dominated sector. Recently recognised as a Women in Digital Finalist for Indigenous Leadership, Ms Hagedorn is an advocate for the inclusion and recognition of First Nations people in decision-making processes.
Ms Hagedorn said it was important to have all kinds of inspiring women to look up to.
“You can’t become what you don’t see. By inspiring and supporting other women in their development, we foster greater outcomes not just for the next generation of women, but the wider community,” she said.
DHARMA JUSTINE CHRISTERSON
Park Ridge charity runner, Dharma Justine Christerson, has a passion for helping rural communities and being a guidance to turn to in tough times.
Friend, Melissa Grant has said that Ms Christerson is always reaching to incredible lengths to help others during times of struggles.
“I have known Justine since the 2011 floods,” Ms Grant said.
“She always goes above and beyond to help those in need.”
Ms Christerson is the founder of Breaking down the barriers for Rural patients in city hospitals, and often helps patients with petrol, airport/hospital/accommodation transfers, transport for shopping, toiletry packs, care packs (toys, activities, clothing and underwear), frozen home cooked meals, advice on travel, accommodation, patient travel subsidy and navigating the health system.
“She has her own small charity, helping rural patients in the city supplying food and transportation,” Ms Grant said.
“She is an incredibly happy, bubbly lady, who is always helping families.”
WENDY BOGLARY
Wendy Boglary is the Division one Councillor at Redland City Council.
She has been described as a leader to many with her constant community involvement and care.
“She is the most dedicated councillor we have ever had in any division in Redland City Council,” Community member, Wendy Lou said.
“She has been a valued member for Division one for consecutive periods now because she is always there at any event happening in the area and keeps residents advised of anything happening here.
“Technically we are no longer in Division one as our street was moved to a different division, but Wendy is still always willing to help with any request made to her even though she could leave us to the other one.
MELISSA RAZO-AZAMAR
Young scientist, Melissa Razo-Azamar overcame incredible odds to see her dreams become a reality.
When her professors would question her ability to “commit” to her profession as a physicist and scientist, she persevered and proved them wrong.
This led Ms Razo-Azamar to be invited to stay in Brisbane to do a research stay at the Translational Extracellular Vesicles in Obstetrics and Gynae-Oncology Group of the University of Queensland, investigating a way to diagnose gestational diabetes in early stages to help women have a better quality of life after pregnancy.
Admirer, Steph Raz, said seeing a woman overcome so many obstacles and make her dreams come true has inspired her along with others.
“She is from Mexico and has always worked very hard to put herself out there and overcome all the hardships of what being a woman in STEM implies,” Ms Raz said.
“She is an incredibly talented young scientist.”
KARA ROBINSON
Career woman, Kara Robinson, has many talents up her sleeve and has challenged herself in different aspects of her life.
“I am an emerging stand up comedian in Brisbane who started my own comedy club in Albion,” Ms Robinson said.
“I have been a pilot, university lecturer and flight attendant who changed careers after becoming a Mum.
“When my daughter started school I started performing comedy at open mic nights.”
Ms Robinson’s confidence and stage presence has led her to some exciting results in the comedy world.
“Last year I was a QLD finalist in the Raw comedy competition and runner up in Sunshine Coast Comedy Festival Laughable competition.”
SONATA BOWEN
Sonata Bowen is tackling the role of a work from home mum, juggling her children along with her own up and coming garment business.
“I currently am a work from home mum and have also got a small side business selling my own garments,” Ms Bowen said.
“They are all made from sustainable fabrics and are ethically made.
“I am a full time mum, my daughter doesn’t go to daycare.
“I am also a dedicated wife, so I wear many different hats, so to speak.
“Although starting my clothing line, ISDE, is what I feel I will be pursuing more of.”
BETTY TAYLOR
Betty Taylor is a domestic violence advocate and managing director for The Red Rose Foundation who has worked across the domestic violence sector for over 28 years.
Ms Taylor is a current member of the Child Death Review Panel and the Domestic Violence Death review Board.
Mary Mungo said Ms Taylor is an inspirational woman who does so much for the community.
“She does very important work raising awareness about Domestic Violence, in particular the risk factor of non-fatal strangulation,” Ms Mungo said.
“She’s an absolute legend who is making a difference in women’s safety.”
EUNICE SMITH
Eunice Smith hosts Legacy’s Logan Central Care Group and manages the Diggers’ site during Legacy Week, which is one of the busiest times of year for veterans and their families.
Ms Smith’s loyalty to the organisation stems from the support Legacy gave her mother and seven siblings, when she was three-years-old and her father was a serviceman based in Darwin.
Ms Smith started her career as a nurse but now works as a volunteer.
She is committed to the spirit of “giving back” and caring for those who need a hand.
Ms Smith is an inspirational women who is constantly involved in the community.
She is an active member of the Greenbank RSL Women’s Auxiliary and has been for almost 20 years, and is currently assistant treasurer.
She was also involved with Woodridge RSL, assisting at regular weekend Bunnings’ Sausage Sizzles and providing meals for homeless people each Friday until COVID-19 forced its closure.
Ms Smith is a member of the Australian War Widows and regularly offers to take women to medical appointments or helping to pick up groceries.
AMANDA WONG
Amanda Wong is a teachers’ aide at Loganholme State School helping students with additional needs.
Ms Wong is known for her dedication and commitment to students at the school, always helping them to succeed in their education.
She is known for ability to develop strong relationships with the students and has become a strong supportive role model in the academic world.
Her hard work and commitment to the students is known to be a true asset to the school.
SAHBA HAMID
Sahba Hamid is the Community Development and Engagement Coordinator at Settlement Services International and also president of the Thriving Afghan Women Group.
Ms Hamid’s days are spent working in SSI’s community development team with those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Using her skills to help them organise and operate their own registered businesses as part of their long-term settlement journey.
In her spare time, Ms Hamid and other Afghan women from Logan, gather as part of the Thriving Afghan Women Group.
They established the group to create a safe space for Afghan women to come together as a community after the Taliban insurgency in 2021.
The group meets weekly at the Gould Adams Community Centre in Logan to help socially isolated women to improve their outreach, helping them get their driver’s licence, gain employment skills, learn English and strengthen community links.
Dr KATRINA PEDDELL
Dr Katrina Peddell is Canterbury College’s Performing Arts director.
She is an experienced music educator and choral conductor who has taught all levels from kindergarten to university.
One of her highlights while at Canterbury, has been directing the Cantabile Choir.
Under her guidance, it has had a rich history of touring and performing in choral festivals around Australia and overseas.
Dr Peddell has inspired the next generation of strong women through her role at Canterbury College and beyond.
AUNTY RHONDA REID
Aunty Rhonda Reid is from Quandamooka Country, on North Stradbroke Island and her homeland is Minjerribah Moreton Bay region and the
bay islands.
Aunty Rhonda has worked in a number of state government jobs at Queensland Transport, Telecom (Telstra) and as a Queensland Police Service liaison officer for more than 20 years in the Logan community.
She has also been a leader in the community helping domestic violence and sexual assault victims.
Aunty Rhonda has also played a role in improving education and health standards while also highlighting welfare issues in her communities and holding board positions for a number of organisations as a Logan elder.
Each year she participates and promotes the NAIDOC festival in Logan along with the Quandamooka Festivals and events across the southeast.
MIKHAELA CANN
Mikhaela Cann is a renown professional basketball player for Logan Thunder,
Ms Cann is also a the CEO of Assist, a program that focuses on teaching children life skills through sport.
“It aims to better equip the next generation of young athletes with a toolkit of mental skills they can tap into to help them navigate through stressful oe tough situations either in the classroom, at school, at home, or on the sporting field,” Ms Cann said.
“We are trying to create a positive shift in youth athlete development by creating more of a proactive approach to the mental side of the game.”
The mother of three says proudest moment in her career was being able to use her own life experience to help others through her program, Assist.
“Using my own experiences and being able to take the mistakes that I made in my own career or lessons that I didn’t learn and being able to create something that I think is really special and unique to help the next generations.
“My kids are part of my motivation in creating a program that that allows kids more access to this type of training before it is too late.”
Ms Cann said that celebrating International Women’s Day is important to recognise all the obstacles that women in sport have sometimes had to find a way over.
“We all know that our journey has been rough in some way, whether that’s setbacks or bias or things just being a little harder,” she said.
“So to see other women have that courage a bravery to excel in what they do and share their passions and experiences is really cool.
“The more we do that the more young women are going to see that it’s possible to do that.”
MIRUSIA
Mirusia Louwerse is professional singer who is known for her role as a soprano with over 17 years of international touring experience under her belt.
Ms Louwerse is known to millions around the world by the name ‘Angel of Australia’ – which was a name given to her by Dutch violinist Andre Rieu.
In the 2022 ARIA charts, Ms Louwerse was listed as Australia’s top classical crossover artist.
If Ms Louwerse is not touring around the world, she resides on the Redlands Coast, mentoring young up and coming singers.
JACKY BURKETT
President of Maybanke Accommodation and Crisis Support Service, Jacky Burkett, is known for her generous and devoted work in the Redlands.
She is a member of Soroptimist International Bayside, a worldwide organisation for women; advancing the human rights and status of women through various service projects.
Ms Burkett was also inducted into Queensland’s inaugural Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Honour Roll as a member of the Redlands Coast Diner en Rouge Organising Committee.
SHIRLEY MAHON
Member of Redland Museum and Rotary Club of Cleveland, Shirly Mahon, is known for work in the Redlands community, along with her involvement in domestic violence and family related services.
Ms Mahon was also inducted into Queensland’s inaugural Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Honour Roll as a member of the Redlands Coast Diner en Rouge Organising Committee.
She is a dedicated member of the Redlands community and has always endeavoured to out the community’s welfare first.
DELVENE COCKATOO-COLLINS
Ms Delvene Cockatoo-Collins is a Quandamooka woman and artist.
She is well known for her contribution to the Redlands Coast community through a range of programs and initiatives, including establishing a Minjerribah-based youth arts group and mentoring young First Nations artists.
Her pieces identify her rich connection to country and the Quandamooka soul, sharing the stories, culture, heritage and techniques of generations.
SHARLYCE DI PASQUALE
Sharlyce Di Pasquale is a Logan business woman who enjoys enriching and nurturing the beauty of other women through her work.
“I own my own business called lashesbysharlyce,” Ms Di Pasquale said.
“I am a lash technician, I do both lash extensions and eyebrow services.
“My favourite part about my job is completing the set of lashes and seeing the girls so happy with my work and feeling beautiful and confident with their new lashes.”
Ms Di Pasquale having created and grown her own business, she encourages other women to do the same.
“I think it’s amazing to see women leading the way in the community,” Ms Di Pasquale said.
“Not only does it help empower other women, but it shows women that we can do anything we put our minds to, there are no limits.”
TAMARA HALL
Tamara Hall has been ranked the second best real estate agent in Australia for RE/MAX.
“I am a highly motivated agent and take great pride in delivering exceptional customer service with premium results which has enabled me to become one of the most sought-after Real Estate agents in Brisbane’s Bayside,” Ms Hall said.
“Experience the difference” is my motto.”
Ms Hall said, that working in a predominantly male industry, it is important to have a strong network around her.
“I am so proud of my team, which is made up of three dedicated women, two of which are mothers to young girls” Ms Hall said.
“Having this strong support network of women, where we are constantly cheering each on and picking each other up whilst working together to achieve one common goal is crucial to my success.
“I cherish this healthy working environment and it’s something I am very proud of and believe all women would thrive when surrounded by a supportive network.”
Ms Hall has been involved in Brisbane’s community, supporting several community organisations to raise awareness for issues including homelessness.
“I raised over $15,000 and helped to raise awareness to the growing issue of homelessness,” she said.
“Sleeping on a cardboard box in Brisbane’s Botanical Gardens with my team on Brisbane’s coldest night was something I was very proud to take part in and was a real eye opener.
“Even with warm clothes and a good quality sleeping bag, I was wet and cold – something I had never thought about until I participated in this event.
“Helping people is something I take great pride in.”
MYSHA WALKER
Mysha Walker is a talented choreographer and owner of five dance studios located in Queensland and New South Wales.
Ms Walker’s classes are all about empowering women through dancing offering a variety of classes including hip hop, burlesque/heels, skill learning, student collaboration, technical work and express.
“Being the owner of HBM is about providing a safe place for women to express themselves, their femininity and to help them develop a strong sense of self worth, love and confidence through movement,” Ms Walker said.
“The benefits of our classes extend past just physical exercise, but are food for the soul and a space to clear your mind.”
Ms Walker said being in a room full of women cheering each other on and growing their self confidence, was a reward in itself.
“My achievements are always to do with the women who walk through our door, from the friendships they make to the confidence I see grow within them,” she said.
“I have been fortunate enough to extend this to multiple locations around Australia meeting thousands of women and helping direct them in their self-love journey.”
BARBARA ARMSTRONG
Barbara Armstrong is the founder of Sweet Peanuts, a business that helps educate friends and family to support bereaved parents that have experienced a loss.
After Ms Armstrong experienced a miscarriage in 2019 during her first pregnancy and not being able to seek counselling, Barbara and her partner felt isolated and unsupported.
Ms Armstrong is not alone, with over 100,000 women and parents experiencing the same in Australia every year and studies show that the majority feel unsupported by healthcare and their immediate networks.
Sweet Peanuts is an enterprise that helps family and friends comfort their love ones through care packages and items that can be gifted to someone.
“From the sale of the packages, we are able to fund and donate miscarriage care packages to hospitals and clinics,” A spokesperson from Sweet Peanuts said.
“So far, Sweet Peanuts has donated packages to the hospitals in Caboolture, Mount Isa, and Longreach with goals to expand hospital connections in other Australian states.”
Ms Armstrong said that seeing positive social change for bereaved parents has been the most rewarding.
“She is proud of her recognition in multiple business awards Nationally and Internationally,” a spokesperson from Sweet Peanuts said.
“She is also very proud of the recent launch of the TradeMutt collaboration preorders.
“Shining a spotlight on social enterprise and starting conversations for the benefit of raising awareness for such an important issue such as miscarriage and acknowledging partners and fathers in the conversation.
“Seeing women leading in their respective roles provides inspiration and hope that younger generations are able to follow in their footsteps.
“Barbara herself hopes to be an inspirational and advocating voice for women and parents that experience miscarriage and encourages open and supportive conversation through her determination and leadership.
“She also hopes to encourage young females to take the entrepreneurial pathway to make positive changes in the community that they want to see.”
COURTNEY BLURY
In demand photographer Courtney Blury is a busy woman, and balances so many things within the motherhood space in Ipswich.
Asides from her photography, she is also a mum, photography educator, community playgroup host, and is currently studying a psychology degree.
“I’m intentional in bringing encouragement to the ladies I come across because for those of us with young kids or brand new babies, we need it! And with loneliness and social isolation on the rise, and so prevalent for new mothers, it can make all the difference to their emotional and mental wellbeing,” she said.
“Those who are mothers and stay at home mothers may get overlooked as ‘leading the way’ in the community however they are so integral to its fabric.
“However the representation of women at every level within our community is vital. Because it teaches young girls like my daughter that they can strive to achieve in any and every sphere of life, and be whomever they wish. The sky is the limit. And we pave the way for them.”
MIA SLATTERY & REBECCA HOZAPFEL
Mia Slattery and Rebecca Hozapfel, the brains behind the wonderful Mums of May community, strive to support little ones to succeed and thrive from the get-go, giving them opportunities to “be their authentic selves by providing the foundations for them to lead the way.”
“You can’t be what you can’t see, so it’s important to support and highlight the ongoing achievements of women in our community so other women can see what they can be,” they said.
“IWD gives us the opportunity to take stock of the ways in which social systems and biases can impact our womanhood. It’s a chance for us to examine how not only our community is acknowledging these hurdles in levelling the playing field, but how we can personally help facilitate conversations around the subject.”
SHEA HARRISON
Gym & Tonic Movement is taking Ipswich mum‘s by storm, and its no surprise with an owner as passionate as Shea Harrison.
Ms Harrison helps mums on their journey‘s to love their bodies and to love exercise, as well as providing a vital community where they can feel safe, supported and confident.
“I freaking love seeing women stepping into all these roles within our community,” Ms Harrison said.
“The power and inspiration that all these women bring is energising and I cannot wait to see more of the incredible difference they will continue to make!”
CHEYANNE FLETCHER
Doula, child birth educator and owner of the In the Mirror Project, Cheyanne Fletcher spends her days (and nights) holding precious space for mums about to bring their little ones into the world.
“My proudest moment would be supporting a mum through a 16 hour labour and her having her dream birth of a intervention and drug free birth at hospital,” she said.
“She was present and confident the whole way and advocated strongly for her labour wishes after having a traumatic 1st birth. It was so beautiful to see her so strong and passionate and taking control of her birth.
“Women have been suppressed for so long with old fashioned thinking and it is so humbling and amazing to see these women and mums breaking free of the stereotypical moulds of social norms and stepping into some amazing businesses and positions.”
JACQUI MARTIN
Jacqui Martin is a name well-known in the region for her tireless work within the community, but for nothing more inspirational than her charity Lisa’s Lunches.
Mrs Martin founded Lisa’s Lunches to give real, practical support to families going through a cancer journey and they supply lunch packs for families as well as gift cards, meals and other services such as lawn mowing.
The charity has given out more than 28000 lunches since its beginning and has now branched into supplying palliative care boxes for those who are sharing their final precious moments with loved ones at Ipswich Hospital.
KATELYN SPRINGALL
‘Kate-the-Cleaner’ owns and operates her cleaning business across the region as well as providing free mentorship for other businesses, and has had a profound impact on so many.
“I started a movement in my industry which is community OVER competition and many people have now followed suit too,” she said.
“For us women we need to know we DO have a voice. We CAN be this badass business owner and we CAN be the bread winners within our families.
“The sky is the limit and we have to run at it with all arms open”
NICOLE JONIC
As Ipswich City Councillor for Division 2, motorsport enthusiast, doting mum-of-two and former-accountant, Nicole Jonic prides herself on the ‘many hats’ she wears, and the impact her role allows her to have in her area.
“I love paving the way for young women to get behind their passion and I am proud of all the young and ambitious children in Ipswich that are pursuing their passions with clear visions for leadership,” she said.
“We all must consciously lift the veil on predetermined biases, from gender to ethnicity, people should be seen based on their character not stereotypical ideologies that limit cohesion and inclusion.”
BLISS GRAYSON
Bliss Grayson is an award-winning licensed real estate agent with NGU Real Estate Ipswich, and was recently honoured as Agent of the Year for Flinders View.
“Getting to be a part of people‘s biggest life changing decisions is pretty amazing. Especially assisting first home buyers – the exciting at settlement day and seeing all their hard work come to fruition, it’s incredible,” she said.
As a woman in a male-dominated field, Ms Grayson is quick to champion her peers.
“There‘s enough glory for everyone, times have changed and there are a lot of women paving the way and showing that we can do it all.”
ZOE KNORRE
Zoe Knorre has tirelessly worked to assist mums and their children struggling with drug and alcohol abuse, and in 2018 she launched Grace Homestead – a residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre.
Ms Knorre was also honoured as Australian Citizen of the Year for Ipswich in 2022, for her role as a mental health hero.
As well as founding Grace Homestead, Ms Knorre is an experienced clinical psychologist and Director of Engage Psychology.
MICHELLE AND TAMARA WHITING
Michelle and Tamara whiting are the duo behind Cunnara Paiabun Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation, a not-for-profit organisation that provides extensive support and relief for the region‘s First Nations people.
In 2022, Tamara was recognised as the Young Citizen of the Year for Ipswich, for her work with Cunnara Paiabun and as an advocate for youth mental health, health and wellbeing
Michelle is a mental health professional who has been nominated for countless Mission Australia and other awards, and has a long history of advocating for her clients, to assist them with a range of issues and goals.
CASSANDRA BARRIE
The Woo Woo Shed, where clients have access to an innovative form of counselling, coined ‘hairapy’ is a labour of love for holistic practitioner, medium and ’hairapist’ Cassandra Barrie.
Ms Barrie has been a woman in business since 2009 and prides herself on have a tangible impact on her clients lives.
“I get such an amazing feeling when my clients message me a few days after their appointments to share that they have had powerful and profound experience in their lives and they can already see things shifting and changing for them,” she said.
“For so long we were told we couldn’t and shouldn’t but those days are gone and I can’t wait to continue seeing the growth of females business owners in our community!”
DEMI-ROSE MCLEOD
Manager and Fitness Trainer at STRONG Pilates, Demi-Rose Mcleod, is passionate about all things health.
“I have been in the fitness industry for a few years now and I absolutely love it,” Ms Mcleod said.
“Besides the managing side of my job, I train classes of up to 20 passionate and determined clients, to help them achieve their goals and ensure every success is possible in their very own fitness journey.”
Ms Mcleod said helping women achieve both the physical and mental side of their fitness goals is very rewarding.
“I know that it can be quite confronting walking into a group fitness class, especially if it is your first introduction into exercise,” she said.
“But being such a major part of someone’s journey - assisting their personal improvement each day they walk through the doors, and to also witness their satisfaction and how proud they are of themselves when they start achieving the goals they set for themselves is why I love and connect with what I do so much.
“It means the absolute world to me that I can be both a role model and a cheerleader for every client I teach and I just can’t get enough of it.”
Ms Mcleod said it can be hard for women to put themselves first and encourages every woman to put their health and fitness journey first.
“I think most women put it on the back burner when they have homes and families to care for,” she said.
“It is no lie that exercise is crucial for your mental health and it warms my heart to see women waking up to that and making a move to start their journey.
“It is about feeling good in your own skin, feeling strong and feeling like you can take on anything that life throws your way.
“For myself, I know that if I make time for my health and make it a priority, I am a better partner, a better friend, a better employee as well as every other role I play in other’s lives.
“Some days, It can be as simple as a 10 minute workout from home or a 30 minute walk outside.
“Just move your body in a way that feels good for you, and I promise you will show up differently.”
DANIELLE VAN VEEN
Danielle Van Veen is a teacher of little minds at her own family daycare in Flagstone, called Dots Family.
“I educate our youngest and most important people in the early years, getting them ready for school and the world,” Ms Veen said.
“I love the real life bonds I create with my little people and their families.
“These bonds go on beyond their time with me at Dots.”
Ms Veen said seeing women around her achieve their goals inspires her to stretch her limitations.
“The amount of strong, amazing women I see, stepping up and making their career dreams a reality around me is pure inspiration,” she said.
“My coordinator at Busy Butterflies, Sharon, took all the things she loved about home based daycare and created a service that displays it all.
“She is my biggest role model - the type of person and educator I strive to be.
“Watching her and other women like her take this leap and succeed makes people like me believe we can do it too.”
SAVANNAH RAI
Savannah Rai is a hardworking hairdresser, who built her own business from the ground up.
Her salon, called SunKissandCO, focuses on haircuts, styles, treatment, and eyebrow services, along with bridal and special event options.
“I‘m so proud I get to say that this is my own business that I’ve worked extremely hard to get to where I am,” Ms Rai said.
“I am so proud of seeing all my clients happy faces walking out of my salon everyday.”
Ms Rai said being able to create her own business and build a good reputation and clientele for herself is so important to her.
“Women in my industry who are strong, intelligent, talented and motivated, empower, inspire and motivate me to be the best I can be,” she said.
VANESSA NORMAN
Vanessa Norman, owner of disability support service Heart in Care, prides herself on her ‘Heart of gold’ and everyone who knows her agrees.
As a mum of children who had required support services, Ms Norman strives to run her business to provide exactly what clients need, no matter how big or small.
“Vanessa‘s heart is the basis of the business and the reason she has such a successful one. From inspiring and empowering her staff through amazing team experiences, coaching and family fun activities to creating an inclusive community environment for all of her clients and the general public,” a friend said.
“She has adapted her life to ensure more people get to see her and feel her love in whatever way she can share it.”
LOZ ANTONENKO
Described by friends as “the adaptive entrepreneur we could only dream of”, Loz Antonenko is the owner and operator of WOW Mobility & Rehab, owner/operator at Loz Life and a personal trainer.
Ms Antonenko also hosts her own podcast and encourages and inspires people of all abilities and walks of life to improve and succeed in whatever ways they can.
“Loz spreads her time across her businesses and her local community being of service to others and of support for their dreams,” a friend said.
“I was so honoured the night I was introduced to Loz because I thought she was some kind of star the way she always authentically presents as she is no matter what. Loz shares a raw perspective on life while using her own experiences to empower and inspire her community!”
LIBBY BOHAN
Any local wandering down Nicholas St won‘t have missed the beautiful spaces that are BOMO and Miss Jackson, both of which were established by empowering businesswoman Libby Bohan.
BOMO is a coworking space that opened in 2021, allowing small business owners and freelancers alike access to a space to work and network.
“It would have to be one of my proudest moments that I‘ve been able to create a space to bring people together to support the growth of their business, the flexibility of their team members, but more importantly, support and encourage the people as a whole that make our space what it is,” Ms Bohan said.
Lovingly named after her grandmother and great-grandmother, the Miss Jackson cafe opened in 2022 in the space next door and was inspired by their work leading the way to financial empowerment for women in regional towns in the 1950s,
“Women leading the way in our community tells me that Heart-led, purposeful, intentional action is taken. A community led by strong women means non-traditional female roles are celebrated as well as supported; something which I have personally experienced in recent times.”
“Leadership can be loud, and strong, but it can also be quiet and in small touches. Either way, celebrating all the moments is valuable to everyone, and inspiring to all.”
JUANITA PHILLIPS
Single mum-of-four and small-business powerhouse, Juanita Phillips has wowed the community with her works.
Ms Phillips is a talented artist who draws on her Maori heritage to create her pieces, and has recently begun creating wearable art, which has become immensely successful.
Juanitur was grown from Ms Phillips desire to provide for her children, after she had been tirelessly working two jobs just to make ends meet.
Four years ago, she started selling her art and her business has grown immensely since.
CONNIE MCKEE
As a real-estate superwoman, pilates enthusiast, ultra-marathon competitor and breast cancer survivor, Connie McKee has really experienced it all.
After being diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer in 2014, and subsequently going through extensive treatment, Mrs McKee took back her life and developed a passion for all things fitness.
In 2016, she walked the Camino De Santiago trail across Spain and raised more than $10000 for the Breast Cancer Network of Australia.
Mrs McKee has raised tens of thousands of dollars for breast cancer foundations over the years and continues to support her community in countless ways.
ALEX CROWELL
As a private practice midwife and director of Newlife Midwifery, Alex Crowell has dedicated more than a decade of her life to supporting women in birth and their period of matrescence and was the first Bachelor of Midwifery student in Australia to work in private practice as a new graduate.
This gave her the opportunity to experience the wonders of home birth and lit a spark in her which led to the development of Newlife with her close friend and colleague Jannie.
“Women possess an inherent wisdom and I love learning from each and every birthing journey. I revel in developing ways to inspire and empower women to have a transformative birth experience,” Ms Crowell said.
“It’s inspiring to be surrounded by so many intelligent, talented and professional women in this community. Everyone is so supportive of each other!”
ABIGAEL CALCOTT
Hazel Memories is an incredible local photography business founded by mum-of-two, Abigael Calcott in 2022, aiming to highlight and lift up mothers in the period of matrescence- the period of time where a woman transitions from ‘maiden to mother’.
Big things are on the horizon for... too, with plans to combine her past experience as a support worker and as a new mother to launch her passion project and she hopes to provide accessible resources and support for “modern day mamas and homemakers,” Ms Calcott said.
“When talking about their experience as new mums a common theme has been feeling isolated so I’ve started offering group motherhood photography sessions that create a space for mums to mingle and connect with others while also drastically reducing the cost photography again making it more accessible.”
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