Celebrating women in business at Small Business Week 2025
I was honored to speak at the Women in Business Breakfast this week. The Office for Small and Family Business hosted this inspiring event to launch Small Business Week 2025 in Adelaide.
Female founders and women entrepreneurs driving change in Australia
The breakfast brought together some of South Australia’s most passionate female founders and entrepreneurs. They all share a drive to create businesses that make a difference in their industries and communities. It was a strong reminder of the progress in Australia. It also showed the ongoing need to fix systemic gender disparities, gender equality issues, glass ceilings, and gender pay gaps in the business community.
Business models, growth and future-fit leaders
In my talk, I shared my perspective on the importance of financial independence, not just for individuals, but for businesses too. Having a strong handle on your numbers and putting your client at the centre of every decision is, I believe, the foundation for business growth, resilience, and sustainable business models. I emphasised how support networks, mentorship, and open communication can help future-fit leaders handle technological advancements and social changes. They can also help leaders deal with challenges in traditional hierarchical structures.
Panel discussion with inspiring female entrepreneurs
Following my talk, I was honoured to join a panel alongside these inspiring women:
- Donny Walford, Founder and CEO of behind closed doors
- Kylie Bishop, Founder and Managing Director of Incredible U
- Rosanne Healy, Executive Director and CEO of Swarmer
- Jo Schneider, Founder of DVE Solutions and recipient of the Fearless Innovation Award.
Together, we discussed the powerful stories that business numbers tell and how they can guide decision-making, strategy, and innovation. It was also an important reminder that numbers don’t just reflect past performance, they can shape the future when you know how to read and use them. For business entrepreneurs, this ability to adapt with foresight is what drives long-term success.
Australian Government support for female entrepreneurial success
I was also delighted to connect with Minister Andrea Michaels, representing the Australian Government, who continues to champion women in business and highlight the role small businesses play in South Australia’s economy. Her support, alongside programs that provide resources, funding, and inclusion, is critical for female entrepreneurial success.
Walking away from the event, I felt energised and proud to be part of such a vibrant business community. Female business leaders are not only driving growth and innovation, we are also showing the next generation what’s possible when you back yourself and your ideas.
Building community, inclusion and resilience
As a female founder and director, I’m passionate about helping women build financial confidence, embrace money management, and create businesses that can thrive. When women entrepreneurs succeed, the impact extends far beyond our balance sheets, it strengthens our families, our communities, and our economy. Actions like gratitude practice, employee recognition, and a focus on diversity and inclusion can help shape more positive, resilient organisations across industries in Australia.
Whether you’re just starting out as a female entrepreneur, growing your business, or already established, I’d love to connect and continue the conversation. Follow me on LinkedIn for more insights on business, leadership, and financial confidence.
Here’s to a future where more women in business feel empowered to lead with confidence, courage, adaptability, and vision.