A women’s community and business group met at Ettalong Diggers last week to discuss the highs and lows of being a woman in business.
The Community and Business Women’s Network held their Peninsula event on Wednesday, April 14.
Community engagement officer, Sharyn Becker, encouraged a number of attendees to shine a spotlight on their own businesses to the crowd.
Guest speaker, Monique Anderson, was then welcomed to the stage.
Anderson, who may be best known through her former role as the CEO of the John Singleton Group, spoke about her recent life changes and experiences as a high-profile woman in business, touching on themes of sexism, inequality and sheer hard work.
Throughout the talk, Anderson spoke about her journey of low self-esteem through her business career, her relationships, and also through motherhood.
“Every experience that I’ve been through brought me to the person I am today [and] I want to give back and help other people,” Anderson said.
“I remember sitting down in a boardroom of men and hearing ‘listen girly’ … it’s been an interesting history.”
Anderson worked for the Singleton Group for over 20 years, overseeing a range of portfolios including hospitality, entertainment, media, hotels, sporting venues, and government relations.
She has also held board positions on several private and public companies including Macquarie radio.
After sadly losing her mother last year due to a brain tumour, Anderson spoke about the benefits she has added to her life through personal development and the power of believing in yourself.
“You can achieve an unbelievable transformation … work on yourself and you will change your whole life,” Anderson added.
“There’s podcasts out there, books, personal development videos …
“I’ve never been so happy.”
Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, wrapped up the networking event, reflecting Anderson’s message of the importance of self-love.
The women’s network will next meet on May 7 at the Davistown RSL Club.
Maisy Rae