The Women’s Society becomes a non-profit

Jade Nelson founded The Women’s Society in early 2022, and the organisation has this month transitioned to a non-profit.

Jade Nelson has recently achieved not-for-profit status for The Women’s Society she founded. Picture: Shae Beplate.

Driven by her own experiences with isolation and a passion for creating connections, Jade Nelson founded The Women’s Society, an initiative empowering women through community and support.

Since its launch in February, 2022, The Women’s Society has 3400 members and has hosted 100 events as well as raised thousands of dollars for local causes.

And now The Women’s Society has made the official transition into a not-for-profit organisation, reinforcing its mission to provide a safe and empowering community for women across North Queensland.

The Women’s Society began from a deeply personal place for Jade.

“I’ve faced my own struggles with mental health and often felt isolated and disconnected. I found myself longing for someone I could truly be myself around - someone I could talk to without judgment or pretence. It led me to wonder: How many other women feel the same way, craving a sense of connection and understanding?”

So, Jade started to research and quickly discovered how widespread this issue really is.

About one in six Australian women experience depression, and in 2024, only 48 per cent of women sought support when struggling with mental health.

The Women's Society founder Jade Nelson. Since its launch in February, 2022, The Women’s Society has 3400 members and has hosted 100 events as well as raised thousands of dollars for local causes Picture: Shae Beplate.

According to the Liptember Foundation’s 2024 Mental Health Research, 71% of women strongly agree that there’s still a surface-level acceptance of mental health issues, with a lot of stigma around speaking up and asking for help.

“These numbers were staggering, and they validated what I was feeling: countless women were also facing isolation, struggling alone, and feeling misunderstood.”

Moved by a desire for authentic connections, she started with a simple facebook group, inviting women in Townsville for coffee.

What emerged was a safe haven where women, previously strangers, could gather, share stories, and uplift one another.

This simple act soon blossomed into a series of regular meetups, touching hundreds of lives. “It was incredible to see how a single conversation or shared experience could lift someone’s spirits.”

Building Bridges and Creating Impact

Since founding The Women’s Society, Jade said she had come to see just how transformative genuine connection could be.

“For some, it’s a fun activity to unwind and relax; for others, it’s an opportunity to be active, get those dopamine levels up, and discover what Townsville has to offer,” Jade said. “Whatever form it takes, these experiences give women a chance to feel valued, build confidence, and foster a sense of belonging.”

As an event co-ordinator, Jade had spent years creating memorable moments for her clients, and wanted to bring that same joy and sense of connection to women in the community.

“At The Women’s Society, we’re committed to creating a safe, welcoming space where women can find those connections—where even the simplest interaction can brighten someone’s day or, in some cases, change the course of their future.”

Jade said transitioning into a non-profit felt like the natural next step.

“It allows us to focus wholeheartedly on our mission, ensuring that our programs and events remain accessible to all women, regardless of financial or personal circumstances.

“As a non-profit, we can expand our reach, partner with other organisations, and access funding to help us make a lasting, positive impact on the mental health and well- being of women across Townsville. Together, we can build a community that’s supportive, uplifting, and transformative for everyone involved.”

Creating Inclusive Spaces

A significant aspect of The Women’s Society is its emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility. With a range of creative and active living programs, the society encourages women to express themselves, stay active, and forge connections.

“We’ve partnered with Townsville Hike and Explore to host free monthly women-only hikes and adventures, which range from beginner to intermediate levels,” Jade said. “ These free guided hikes provide an opportunity for women to explore the beauty of Townsville, get outdoors, and be active.

“Many of our participants come alone, excited to meet new people and engage in meaningful,

open conversations along the way. These outings offer a welcoming space for women to connect and enjoy the positive effects of nature and movement on mental health.

In addition to outdoor adventures, The Women’s Society hosts its Creative Connect meet-ups, which are designed to help women have fun, de-stress, and express themselves artistically.

“We partner with local businesses to offer interactive sessions such as pottery, painting,

mark-making, and even gallery hunts. These events provide a safe, supportive space where women can channel their inner artist, learn new skills, and enjoy a moment of mindfulness. With a mix of free and low-cost options, our creative programs are accessible to everyone, encouraging self-expression and fostering a sense of community and belonging.”

A significant aspect of The Women’s Society is its emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility.

Overcoming Challenges and Looking Forward

The transition to a non-profit hasn’t been without its challenges.

Navigating financial, legal, and administrative hurdles required extensive research and dedication.

Yet, the drive to provide meaningful change for women motivated Jade to overcome these obstacles.

“While we now have a strong foundation, we need funding to expand our impact and reach,” she said. “To grow, The Women’s Society requires partnerships and sponsorships from local business leaders and support through grants.

“With the right funding, we could create a permanent community hub, host more inclusive events, expand our programs, and offer vital resources to combat isolation and loneliness.

“Social connection can lead to longer life, better health, and wellbeing.”

Jade said people who supported The Women’s Society would be investing in an organisation that was making real change from the source and without the stigma.

“Government funding and business partnerships are crucial to scaling our services. With funding, we can build a dedicated team, establish welcoming facilities, and create community events that uplift and empower women across North Queensland. I invite the government and potential partners to join us in this journey of impact.”

Jade’s plan for the next five years is bold but achievable.

“I envision The Women’s Society expanding its reach across North Queensland, offering more diverse programs and partnerships to make a greater impact. We plan to secure sustainable funding, broaden our support services, and establish a physical space to act as a hub for our organisation.”

In addition to outdoor adventures, The Women’s Society hosts its Creative Connect meet-ups, which are designed to help women have fun, de-stress, and express themselves artistically

Championing the Cause

At the heart of The Women’s Society’s events is the annual Christmas Charity Event - a celebration of generosity and community spirit.

This year’s function is scheduled for December 20 at Flinders Lane between 6.30pm and 11.30pm.

The function also marks the official transition of The Women’s Society into a non-profit, complete with the launch of a new website and programs, ushering in a new era for the organisation.

The event, sponsored by Gallivanter Travel Townsville, XRX Business Centre and Townsville City Council, is open to members and non-members and will feature a deluxe grazing table, a welcome drink, a charity raffle, live entertainment and special guests.

The Christmas charity function will include a Donation Tree initiative, inspired by the success of last year’s drive.

As part of the initiative, guests are encouraged to bring useful items, such as toiletries and non-perishable food, to support local women and families in need during the holiday season.

All proceeds from ticket sales and donations will go directly to Domestic Violence North Queensland.

For more information about The Women’s Society, to buy tickets, or inquire about sponsorships and raffle prize donations, visit facebook.com/thewomenssocietytownsville

Originally published as The Women’s Society becomes a non-profit