The innovation community in Adelaide gathered recently for the "Diverse Startups, Scaleups, Small Business, Education & Entrepreneurship" event, hosted by Workforce BluePrint and Brightstar Brewing. This vibrant event brought together a diverse group of speakers and participants, all of whom are making significant strides in their respective fields, including a unique delegation of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Leaders from the Kingdom of Bhutan. Sonam and Dechen explained about the culture of Bhutan and the purpose of the program building capacity and capability, with the group in brightly coloured traditional Bhutanese dress. This amazing program is cofacilitated by the VET Development Centre, Australian Institute of Management and Workforce BluePrint.
From innovative business models to educational initiatives, stories and passion, the event highlighted the power of diversity and collaboration in driving personal and professional success.
Inspirational Speakers: Sharing Stories and Insights
The event showcased a remarkable lineup of speakers who each brought their unique perspectives and experiences to the table.
Mark Koolmatrie (LinkedIn), Business Owner @ Kool Tours, captivated the audience with his acknowledgement of country, blending Indigenous knowledge with modern business practices. His work focuses on creating sustainable opportunities that honour and preserve Indigenous culture while fostering economic growth. “A member of the Ngarrindjeri, our people comprise 18 distinct Lakinyeri (clans). My heritage is deeply rooted in the Ramindjeri, Yaralde, Meintangk, Warki, and Tangani Kukabrak Tribes. Our families are custodians of the Coorong region, the lower lakes of southern South Australia, the Fleurieu Peninsula, Kangaroo Island, and all their encompassing lands, waters, and cosmology.”
Tracey Tito (LinkedIn), Skipper of Team Justagirl, Editor and Producer of Get Hooked with Team Justagirl TV and Fishing Trips with Skip series. Owner of Fishing Trips with Skip. /Well known in the fishing community, a past member of the Ministers Recreational Fishing Advisory Council , a regular guest on Radio 5AA, Roweys Fishing Show and ABC Adelaide. Found on stage at the boating and fishing shows, a keen event organiser thriving on bringing people together, from planning the monthly club get togethers at the Game Fishing Club of SA ,event nights at Pacific Marine, and the Fishing Alley at the SA Boat and Fishing Show.
Kristen Bailey (LinkedIn), Coach and Mentor; Education and Employment Leader; Experienced General Manager; Non-Executive Director for Motorsport Australia and Australian Institute for Motor Sport Safety; Motorsport Competitor. Competitor in grassroot motorsport, supporting women and youth into the industry, encouraging exploration of all the opportunities including becoming a competitor, an event organiser, official, pit crew, media team and marketing.
Belle Baker (LinkedIn), Tractoring For Women | Multipotentialite | Ag-vocate, a spirited, agri-professional who thrives on variety and the spice it brings to life. “Label me a multipotentialite if you must, for my career is a fascinating exploration across many industries - from wrangling cattle in Australia and New Zealand to navigating FTSE 100 companies in the UK. Based on a property at Currency Creek in South Australia, I co-lead Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Farm Services. I also stir the pot with the 'Adelaide Hills Farmcast,' a podcast that nurtures small acreage farmers with insights and laughter, all in good measure.”
Fiona Symons (LinkedIn), CareWindow Co-Founder Registered Nurse at SA Health & Clinical Systems Educator/Analyst, “Outside of my clinical nursing position I am passionate about bringing digital technology into healthcare by developing both software and hardware solutions for modern healthcare challenges.”
Ethel Osazuwa (LinkedIn), Operations and Business Development Manager, Possible Consulting Australia, Multicultural Business and Entrepreneurs Network. Ethel Osazuwa is a critical thinker, and a leader who enjoys working with diverse individuals in various settings. Ethel has an exceptional ability to adapt in challenging environments and knowledgeable in research design through to execution and executive report writing.
Support from Dedicated Sponsors
The event was proudly supported by Eddie Blass (LinkedIn), Founder of Recareer Women, and Liz Curr, Workforce Inclusion Navigator (LinkedIn) from SYC. Both sponsors are passionate about creating opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in the business world. Their support was instrumental in making this event a success, and their contributions to the entrepreneurial community are greatly appreciated.
A Community of Inspiration and Connection
The event was not only a platform for sharing knowledge but also a space for networking and fostering connections. Attendees were enthusiastic about the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals and learn from the experiences of others.
Jane, an attendee, shared her thoughts on the event, saying, "What an inspiring lineup of speakers 🙏 Mark Koolmatrie, Kristen Bailey, Eddie Blass, Tracey Tito, Justagirl, Belle Baker, Fiona Symons, Ethel Osazuwa. Thanks Wendy Perry and Scott Perry from Workforce BluePrint for the opportunity to hear their stories, experiences, and insights. And very wonderful to catch up with many old and new faces. Always fabulous to attend your events 🧡 Thank you."
Tracey, remarked, "I love these events. It's tough out there in the business world, and to be able to come together and be inspired by your peers keeps you switched on. Thanks, Wendy. Great to catch up with everyone."
The "Diverse Startups, Scaleups, Small Business, Education & Entrepreneurship" MEGA event was a resounding success, bringing together a community of entrepreneurs, innovators, and educators dedicated to driving positive change. The insights shared by the speakers, coupled with the support from sponsors and the enthusiasm of the attendees, made this event a memorable and impactful experience for all involved.
For those who missed the event, stay tuned for more opportunities to engage with Adelaide’s vibrant entrepreneurial community. Follow the speakers and sponsors on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram to keep up with their latest endeavours and continue to be inspired by their work.
Check out Wendy’s photos here, with professional photos to come.