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From humble beginnings as a supportive online chat room, Female Founders has transformed into a thriving and dynamic community for innovative female entrepreneurs.
With over 25 events, 1315 attendees, and 35 stories heard, this community is not just growing: it’s thriving.
Hosted bi-monthly by the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN), Female Founders provides female-led businesses with a supportive space to learn and connect. But it’s more than an event; it’s a vibrant community where they can share achievements, find advice, and talk with those who actually understand. Moving to face-to-face sessions in 2020 after CBRIN noticed a need to connect during the isolation many people where experiencing during the pandemic (a time when the need for connection was more vital than ever), the Zoom catch-ups provided an online support system for women in business, women looking to connect and share their experiences and learn from others.
Each attendee had an opportunity to introduce themselves and share their challenges – like Ilea Buffier and Serina Bird, two early members who have been part of Female Founders since its beginning.
“Female Founders during isolation was similar to a mother’s group, having a group of women who truly understood your situation and could provide practical advice,” says Ilea.
Topics of conversation were not limited to business and would flow between how the Female Founders were feeling, the complexities of juggling business,lockdown and often would end with advice being shared.
“You’re in an environment that is created to be supportive and to get connected; it leads to more chats and interesting conversations,” says Serina.
The virtual conversations forged real connections and friendships within the community, creating a sense of belonging and validation for their entrepreneurial journey.
“It was amazing having access to other female entrepreneurs that had experienced the problems you were facing,” says Ilea.
Fast forward almost four years and Female Founders has evolved into a thriving, diverse community of entrepreneurs. Each event is a unique experience with varying formats – from seasoned keynote speakers discussing trending topics like finance and money, transforming ideas and breaking down biases to showcases featuring women-led businesses services and products.
“You are able to be involved and learn from the speakers,” says Serina.
Beyond entrepreneurs, the events welcome women who don’t necessarily see themselves as founders or entrepreneurs – like Tina Ha and Demi Aloisi from RD Consulting. According to the pair, it provides them with a gateway to join a community of innovative minds with access to resources, information, and networks.
“As someone who does not identify as an entrepreneur you can implement what the speaker talks about into everything you do, such as professional and personal lifestyle,” says Tina.
“It is such a positive, inspiring, and motivating room to be in.” adds Demi.
Female Founders is not just an event; it’s a celebration and support system for women in business and their diverse achievements.
Ready to join this thriving community and support female entrepreneurs?
You’re invited to the special edition Female Founders event celebrating International Women’s Day. Come along on Tuesday 12 March, at the Canberra Innovation Network. Register now!
THE ESSENTIALS
What: Female Founders – International Women’s Day Celebration
When: Tuesday 12 March, 12:15 pm – 1:45 pm
Where: Canberra Innovation Network, Level 5, 1 Moore Street, Canberra City
Tickets + more information: cbrin.com.au
Images supplied.
Source: hercanberra.com.au
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
