| | | | Dear Guest,
Yesterday our wonderful WNA Christmas Charity Luncheon was an extra special day for me. For those who weren't in the room, yesterday I announced that it would be my last event as CEO of Women's Network Australia. I am so incredibly proud to have led this amazing network for the past five years, but like all good things that come to an end, I decided earlier this year it was time to move on to other challenges in my professional career.
2020 has been a year full of challenges for me, not just on a COVID-19 front, but managing family health and reassessing what my future entails. I have so many people to thank for supporting me and our WNA team on what has been an incredible journey and I will be reaching out personally over the next few weeks as we head into Christmas before taking a much-needed break over the summer.
Yesterday's luncheon theme was "Dare to Dream" and that's exactly what I have tried to foster since taking over at WNA five years ago. What a ride it's been! I have learnt plenty of lessons along the way, but have kicked many amazing goals too. One of those was to truly connect with our WNA members and bring new colleagues, friends and family into a network that is all about empowered women, empowering women to achieve in their personal and professional lives.
I was thrilled yesterday standing at the front of the beautiful Marquee at Victoria Park Golf Complex looking out at a sold-out crowd. The room was filled with WNA members and friends celebrating and empowering each other and the smiles reminded me what business and connection is really about. We have achieved some amazing goals for Women's Legal Service Queensland, an organisation that is close to my heart, and works admirably with the help of loyal advocates to end violence for women and children in our communities. In fact, yesterday we raised $20,975!! Thank you to members and friends around the country for contributing to the raffle and helping us raise much needed funds!
While I am sad it was my last event as WNA CEO, I have no doubt I will be seeing you all at future WNA events and connecting with you in person or over the phone as we emerge from a time that has brought huge challenges and opportunities but has encouraged determination in many of us. For now though, WNA is transitioning into exceptional hands. Yesterday I was excited to introduce Cheryl Gray to our event attendees and today I am excited to introduce you to her as WNA's incoming CEO. Cheryl will formally take over the role from 1 December.
Many of you know that Cheryl has been working energetically with me for the last 18 months to help elevate the network and establish new opportunities for us to advocate on behalf of women in business in Australia. When I first considered handover of the leadership of this incredible membership group, it was a daunting prospect, but knowing I am leaving it in Cheryl's capable hands makes the decision so much easier. Welcome Cheryl and I wish you all the best with the next stage of WNA - WNA has a bright future and I look forward to being part of that future in a slightly different role!
Please read on as we thank our tremendous sponsors and supporters who made yesterday's WNA Christmas Charity Luncheon a superb occasion. We have an event coming up in Hobart in early December so the year's not over yet!
Thank you once again for your support and kindness during this journey - it has been truly humbling and I look forward to catching up for a few celebratory bubbles!
May you be well, happy and successful as you traverse your many dreams and goals.
With love and kindness always,
Janelle Bostock | | INTRODUCING INCOMING WNA CEO - CHERYL GRAY
I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to lead Women's Network Australia, a group which has forged its way into my life and heart. It goes without saying that Janelle has led the organisation with passion, energy and commitment, and I have very big shoes to fill as I embark on this leadership role with WNA.
In working with Janelle, I began to reflect on my purpose and passion and realised supporting and collaborating with women to succeed motivates me as leader and I will take this determination into the CEO role. The opportunity to take the reins at WNA is my "Dare to Dream" moment - my chance to turn that passion into action by helping more women to succeed.
We are collating the WNA calendar of events for 2022 and excitingly we will have that to you before Christmas. I'd love to hear from you about the types of events and activities you would like to be involved in through WNA.
We are planning a theme for each month - kicking off in January with "Re-energise". For me, the best place to re-energise is on my traditional homeland, Minjerribah, North Stradbroke Island. If you would like to connect with the island and Quandamooka culture, we are offering a very limited number of places for a private tour led by renowned artist Delvene Cockatoo-Collins (with some special WNA magic thrown in!).
When diligently considering the leadership position, I also reflected on all the things I love about WNA and I realised "What's not to love?!". That seemed like the perfect theme for a special 'Galentines' event in Brisbane on February 16! Stay tuned for more information on that event and for events planned around the country.
The future of WNA is bright and I am grateful to be able to continue Janelle's great work in bringing together this dynamic and empowered group of women. I look forward to staying in touch with you through the regular weekly email, sharing your news, success stories and much more!
Much courage and hope,
Cheryl Gray Incoming CEO of Women's Network Australia | | | | MELBOURNE RE-EMERGED AND WE HAD A BALL - 11 NOVEMBER
Thank you to all our attendees who embarked on The Savoy Hotel on November 11 in Melbourne. Our fabulous Melbourne members enjoyed the presentation and wisdom from esteemed Trademark Attorney Binh Rey who shared her professional story and other stories that have impacted her clients during their business journeys. Her knowledge of such an intricate and complex part of the law is what makes Binh a great person to lean on for businesses who are searching for this kind of legal support.
Members enjoyed the opportunity to connect in person and there were many inspirational stories of business women who have adapted and pivoted to keep their business dreams alive and well. The food was simply exquisite, the Melbourne coffee was delightful and the energy in the room was very heartening. We can't wait for more Melbourne events next year! | | A SPECIAL CHRISTMAS EVENT IN HOBART - 3 DECEMBER
Join owner of Killara Distillery, Kristy Booth-Lark and hear her inspiring journey of being a second generation distiller and wonderful role model for women in the distilling industry. Join us for a beautiful Christmas lunch and company!
WNA CHRISTMAS CHARITY LUNCHEON - THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS!
Yesterday was truly a marvellous day and in the next communique we will bring you the full review of the proceedings and beautiful photos from a day to remember. As always events of that magnitude don't happen without the support of many generous and wonderful people.
Our 2021 Charity Partner - Women's Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) - has been by WNA's side for a couple of years and to see the support from a sold out crowd yesterday was inspirational. To be able to fulfil the precious work you do in the community for women and children facing domestic violence is crucial for education and making our world that much safer for everyone. We were thrilled to hear Jo Sainsbury announce yesterday that she will be WNA's official entrant in the major WLSQ fundraiser, Dancing CEOs! We look forward to supporting WLSQ through Jo's efforts.
Thank you to our Event Partner KLM Solicitors, Gold Sponsor AIS Water, Silver Sponsor Ostrich 180 Publishing, and Bronze Sponsors Ruby Red Jewellery and The Little Art Room for your tremendous generosity and support - we 'Dared to Dream' on the back of your endorsement and the day was all the more special because of your involvement.
Harbour Cove, Kickass Women and Starfire Diamond Jewellery - thank you for your amazing Major Prize Donations that made the Luncheon special for many individuals in the room and to our VIP Table Sponsors JTS Insurance Solutions and My Giving Table, your collective contributions were treasured by the WNA team and all our friends and guests.
We are incredibly grateful for our raffle supporters who kindly donated prizes for the luncheon. Your kindness and generosity made the day for multiple WNA members and friends and also supported the important work of WLSQ. For a full list of raffle prize supporters you can view our social media profiles. Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time, wisdom and resources - we are incredibly grateful and cannot wait for more WNA events to run in 2022! | | | | COMPETITION TIME!
Today's your lucky day! You have the chance to win two tickets to Love Actually in Concert in either Brisbane (18 Dec), Sydney (19 Dec), Melbourne (18 Dec) or Hobart (4 Dec). We have two tickets for each of these performances!!
All you need to do is ensure you're following WNA on Facebook and make sure you've joined our Facebook Group, then comment on our Love Actually post sharing your favourite scene from the movie!
Competition opens today (26 November 2021) and closes 30 November at 4pm. The winners will be selected at random, contacted via messenger and announced on our social media platforms on 1 December.
Audiences are set to experience the film in a whole new way, as BAFTA award-winning Craig Armstrong's evocative score reaches new heights with a live orchestra performance filling the air with song. It's the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit with loved ones, friends and family.
*Facebook accepts no responsibility. This competition is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by or associated with Facebook*
INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER DAY - 5 DECEMBER
Each year on December 5, Volunteering Australia helps to raise awareness for the crucial role volunteers play in supporting organisations and challenges facing the world. Volunteers are the backbone of many of our organisations and the day is a great chance for volunteers and organisations to celebrate and recognise their efforts and to promote the often life-saving work they complete.
The 2021 theme is 'Volunteer now for our common future' and aims to inspire individuals everywhere to complete their small part to make the world and their communities a better place. One volunteer can make a great difference but when teams of volunteers come together, we can build a strong and safe future for everyone. Volunteering is a great way to promote connection, inclusivity and teamwork and ultimately build better generations of tomorrow.
You can join the #VolunteerNow campaign by posting a photo or video of yourself volunteering in a cause special to your heart. It's a great way to role model how important every small volunteering effort means. On #IVD2021 there are many ways you can contribute your part including planting a tree in your garden or local community, participating in advocacy for climate action, sharing your business skills with someone who could benefit, offering to support a not-for-profit that aligns with a cause special to your heart and even in small ways such as helping out a family member or friend. What will you contribute for a better future?!
A GREAT BOOK FOR ENCOURAGING INTROVERTED LEADERS
Her topic is pertinent - how to handle meetings as an introvert which I know brings dread to many people's faces. Jennifer's tips for handling meetings positively are important not just for introverts but for everyone who seeks to get the best out of their cohort: - Prepare for each meeting and know the key elements that help you get on the front foot:
- Know the purpose - do you want to solve a problem, create ideas or recognise achievements
- Prepare to contribute and help others as well - always provide an agenda and know what you can contribute and gain from the meeting as well
- Ease into the meeting - show up early and maximise your time for reflection and creativity
- Find your comfortable seat - influence and have a strong presence by taking a more visible seat
- Encourage responses - have questions of the group and provide a chatbox for feedback
- Low energy and collaboration - take scheduled breaks and have moments of silence.
Introverts love to contribute their wisdom and expertise but leaders and organisations need to encourage them to bring this to the table! | | | | Connect with Women's Network Australia | | | | Copyright © 2021 Women's Network Australia, All rights reserved. You are receiving this because you are either a financial member of Women's Network Australia or you have requested/subscribed to receive electronic communication from us.
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