IT WAS a night of celebration and inspiration on Friday as an outstanding 120 people from around the region came together at the Commodore on the Park for the Women in Business and Regional Development (WiBRD) 2018 launch.
Setting the scene for an action packed year, the launch featured an inspirational speech from Zoos SA chief executive Elaine Bensted, musical entertainment from Ellyana Sims, Aimee Black and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and the all important announcement of this year’s WiBRD entrepreneurial scholarship winners.
A total of 12 nominations were put forward this year for the scholarship, with only two taking home the grand prize valued at over $2000.
Congratulating all 12 women for their courage to begin their businesses, committee member Di Ind said it was a tough decision to choose the two winners.
“We have been overwhelmed by the calibre of entrants in our 2018 scholarship and are very proud of each and every one of them,” she said on the night.
“You have put yourselves out there and we as a judging committee really did have to go down to the cruxes of the judging criteria to come to our winners.”
Envy Attire Hire owner Caitlin Kennedy and Limoncello Caravan Bar owner Tamara Seeley were announced as the worthy recipients, recognised for their commitment to their businesses and determination to succeed.
Both will receive over six hours of coaching sessions with Duncan Redman of Dare to Dream Business Coaching and Mentoring, a complimentary membership to the network and free attendance to WiBRD events throughout the year.
Ms Kennedy said she was very grateful to receive the scholarship, which will help her to take the business to the next level and increase online sales.
“I have a few ideas up my sleeve and am hoping this scholarship will allow me to put my ideas into action under Duncan’s guidance and advice,” she said.
“I am also really looking forward to attending more WiBRD events this year – networking is so crucial for small business, especially in a regional city.”
Launching her business only one year ago, Ms Seeley also thanked WiBRD members for their support.
“It is nice to see my hard work acknowledged,” she said.
“There is always room to grow in business and there are certain aspects that I believe Duncan will be able to help me achieve.
“WiBRD is a great network to be a part of with so many inspiring and motivating women.”
Ms Kennedy and Ms Seeley were not the only women acknowledged on the night, with 25 years in business plaques presented to Jene Spiridis of Jens Cuts and Josephine Patzel of Josephine Patzel Massage Therapist and Aromatherapist.
ANZ state manager of small business banking Gary Parkin also presented on the night, with ANZ being announced as the major sponsor for WiBRD once again for 2018.
WiBRD chairperson Cathy Lunnay thanked ANZ and the many local businesses for their continued support of the network.
“It is partnerships like ours with ANZ and those with our many sponsors that allow this network to thrive,” she said.
“Our vision of women empowering women is not just words to us, it is a promise to ignite, support, advocate and celebrate through our community and we hope that you all enjoy the journey that these words take us on throughout this year.”
The next major event on the WiBRD calendar – the International Women’s Day Empowering Women in Business Breakfast – will take place on March 9 at the Main Corner complex.
Tickets will be available soon on the organisation’s website.
