Murdoch University People’s Choice Award 2021

Founder/Director, NodeOne
Built Western Australia's largest, fastest and most reliable Fixed Wireless Network, impacting the lives of thousands of Western Australians (where their only other option would otherwise be 2nd – rate satellite or ADSL -- or no broadband service at all). The pleasure of seeing the positive impacts on each business or resident and the improvements in their quality of life helps drive us to grow our network further and to maintain the performance and reliability of the network.This outcome was only achievable through the cooperative activities of all our team members and partners who have contributed along the journey.The future of our company lies in growing the coverage of our Fixed Wireless Network throughout the state; then expanding our reach nationally, while maintaining network performance and continuing to deliver first-class customer experiences.

Director & Chief Product & Technology Officer, Last Yard
I love working in the retail technology space and have been for over 17 years.Each day I get to work with our passionate team to build the leading shelf edge promotions platform to convert shoppers at the point of purchase. Last Yard has undergone tremendous change over the past couple of years which has been challenging yet rewarding.I have also been lucky enough to work with some of Australia's largest retailers on some incredibly tough projects and helped to establish a trusted brand SignIQ (now Last Yard) across Australia and New Zealand.I truly believe that I would not be where I am today professionally without the amazing Last Yard team or our retail partners constantly challenging us to grow and improve.

Director/Chiropractor, Innervation Chiropractic
Candice Haynes, owner of Innervation Chiropractic, has never wavered from her vision, to inspire and educate families to choose preventative health care. Her chiropractic business with its family focus and community outreach, is continuing its successful trajectory. Her mission is to improve the wellbeing of her clients, positively impacting the wellbeing of their families and the community. Her leading practice is collaboratively serving to lift the professionalism of and trust in, the chiropractic industry. Candice has taken a one chiropractor, one room practice to a large four chiropractor, 5 room practice helping hundreds of people per week. Candice and her team are regularly in the community providing free spinal health education and have a passion supporting local businesses. Candice has been recognised with multiple awards for her contribution to the Western Australian chiropractic industry and is excited to expand her impact on chiropractic and health in the coming years.

Co-Founder and Director, Delorean Corporation Pty Ltd
Joseph Oliver is an award-winning bioenergy expert with over 15-years experience in the renewable energy sector. He is focused on renewable energy generation and decarbonising the natural gas grid. Joe has successfully delivered multiple anaerobic digestion (AD) facilities across Europe and Australasia, co-founding Delorean Corporation - a bioenergy infrastructure developer and ‘gentailer’ where he now operates in the role of Managing Director.Delorean develops, constructs, owns and operates renewable energy infrastructure - diverting organic waste from landfill for renewable power and gas production, and capturing and recycling nutrients in the form of biofertiliser. Delorean retains the in-house capability for project development, construction and operation, with an energy retail division for nationwide retailing of renewable power and gas.

Director / Founder, PROFLUID PTY LTD
Jerome is a Mechanical Engineer who migrated to Australia in 2013. He has an extensive experience in the industrial valves market and has worked for large corporations overseas and in Australia before establishing PROFLUID early 2018. From humble starts to their current Sales & Servicing facilities in Wangara and Brisbane, he has adopted a disruptive approach for his company which has led to their success in supplying specialized valves package for the Resources and Defence sector.Profluid supplies Water treatment, Oil & Gas and Mining Projects as well as Defence infrastructures and Ships such as Royal Australian Air Force establishments across the country and submarine specialized valves.Profluid is a customer centric business eager to grow with his customers.

National Sales Manager, Regen Power Pty Ltd
I have been in this field for the last 6 years including my 1 year internship at Regen Power where I was involved in improving the performance and efficiency of the Solar - Diesel Hybrid system. That is where it all began where I learnt more about the technical aspects. Since then I have always wanted to learn more about this field and started from being as a site technician to a National Sales Manager now at Regen Power. My achievements include expanding sales to other states like QLD , SA , NSW and also building up the market. I have always wanted to give my 100% in what I do & my future plans would be build up the national market for Regen Power in the year 2021. Being a Sales Manager , I always set my targets high which helps me in achieving my goals.

Managing Director, Discovery Capital Partners
Adam is an entrepreneur, businessman, practising lawyer and corporate finance executive, with a breadth of experience spanning 15 years advising on and executing some of Australia's leading corporate transactions. Adam was instrumental in sewing the seeds of WA's nascent medtech industry through his co-founding of the Spark Co-Lab with Stanford University, which has directly led to the creation of dozens of Perth based bioscience startups. He is also MD and co-founder of Discovery Capital Partners, a leading independent WA based investment house which has led the seeding and development of some of Australia's most promising emerging businesses and has executed several of Australia's most successful corporate transactions.

CEO, Valrose Pty Ltd
Tina Ambrose is CEO of Valrose, a specialist recruitment agency for technology and risk personnel she founded in March 2018. She has changed the model for recruitment from one focused on transaction-based KPIs to a human-centred approach. In less than three years, the self-funded startup has surpassed $1 million in annual revenue. Tina is passionate about improving the tech landscape through building diverse and inclusive teams for her clients as well as providing support and advice to candidates.With a goal to improve the perception of recruiters globally, Tina believes Valrose’s success depends on adding value to every person they work with. Placing the right person in a job changes their life for the better, while making a positive impact on the business who needed them. In her spare time, Tina holds the role of Co-Chair at Women in Technology, WA, where she leads a team of 25 volunteers.

Chief Member Experience Officer, WA Super
Quyen is an outstanding business leader in the WA financial services community after dedicating the last 17 years of her career to the industry not just in WA but nationally and internationally.She loves collaborating to grow people, grow teams and grow businesses having been awarded and recognized twice by Money Management’s Women in Financial Services awards. Her work in the field of digital and robo-advice technology sees her frequently sought after by superannuation funds, fintech companies and financial planning businesses for her expertise.Her passion for women’s retirement advocacy sees her well respected by her peers and serving on various industry bodies and committees. She is inspired to help empower the next generation of women looking to purse a career in financial services and being educated about their money and secure in their financial well being.

Managing Director, 30 Foot Drop Pty Ltd
Innovation and collaboration are my lifeblood. Since becoming a quadriplegic in 2007 I have rebuilt my life and learned so much. Now I share this knowledge through educating the business community about the bottom line of investing in inclusion. Through my work, I have opened minds and changed pre-conceived perceptions of people with disability. My vision is for an inclusive and accessible business community. My mission is to create a community that accepts diversity as normal.Whilst there is a need for change 30 Foot Drop will be there.

Managing Director, Bruce Rock Engineering
Damion is the Managing Director of diverse second-generation family business, Bruce Rock Engineering (BRE).During his 17-year involvement, rising through Workshop Manager, Engineering Manager and MD, he has lead the company growth from a staff of 3 to nearly 200 employees across six sites, and now the largest trailer manufacturer and service provider to the road transport industry in WA.Damion’s focus on innovation, quality and value are the foundations for BRE’s continued success in building long term relationships with customers and employees.Under his direction BRE has become nationally recognised as a leader in providing innovative higher productivity heavy vehicle combinations.A born and bred Bruce Rock local he is passionate about Australian manufacturing and regional WA business, and supporting the communities we service.

Managing Director, Peritas Group
Mr Stanes is the Managing Director of the national engineering company, Peritas. Launching the business with five years’ experience, he now manages the company, growing the organisation to provide specialised engineering design, documentation and advisory to the construction industry in Perth and Melbourne in the industrial, mining, commercial, marine and land development sectors. In 2018 Mr Stanes established a second office in Melbourne and in 2021 will be establishing an office in Brisbane. He oversees day to day operations while concurrently raising three children alongside his wife who is completing a master’s degree in psychology. He sits on the advisory council of Santa Maria College and is also a board member of Youth Ballet WA. He plans to revolutionise the engineering industry from the inside out by increasing his personal contribution to the profession, modernising the curriculum, supporting future graduates, and raising the status of engineers in Australia.

Creative Director, Linneys Jewellery
I’m proud to have led the business through a time of immense change. While the economy was lagging and target demographics shifting - a leadership transition was being implemented. With the internal and external machinations in flight at one time, my role as business lead was a lesson in resilience and agility. Family businesses present a unique and complex set of challenges. I’ve been given no entitlements or exemptions - despite assumptions of an easy pathway to success, or inherent wealth presumed to go hand in hand with luxury sales. On the contrary, I’ve worked to evolve the business away from being solely tied to my father’s identity - to stand on its own. I relish the opportunity to continue leading Linneys as an iconic, future-ready brand. I also remain committed to our 50 year heritage of inimitable quality and service - a tradition that’s increasingly rare in modern retail.

Managing Director and Principal Solutions Architect, Dienst Consulting
I've worked in the ICT Industry for over 20 years and in 2012 started Dienst Consulting which has now grown to approximately 40 staff and contractors. We aim to be trusted advisors and helping customers to innovate and allow them to work securely from any where on any device with solutions across Mobility, Cloud and Data solutions. We plan to continue our growth and aim to not just be a trusted advisor to our customers but also a partner of choice for our selected vendors that help us support our customers business requirements.

Senior Manager Corporate Affairs, ATCO
Pip is a strategic communicator, a leader, a mentor and a trusted advisor. With almost 20 years of communications experience, she has continued to invest in herself and her career through additional training and education, putting her hand up for new experiences and working closely with significant and well known Western Australians to articulate their message. After 15 years in the education sector she now works in energy, leading the corporate affairs function of global energy and infrastructure provider ATCO.Pip has contributed at the most senior levels to the decision making of government departments, universities, ASX-100 companies, and global organisations, and continues to evolve and grow her abilities as a trusted advisor to the most senior executives.A strong community contributor, Pip has also volunteered on boards and committees, and is currently on the board of St Peter’s Primary School.

(Founding) Director, WA Fuel Supplies
My family has always been (and continues to be) what drives me to do what I do. Underpinned by my wonderful wife Mel and our two beautiful children, over the past five years this family has grown to include our WAFS community (team members, clients and suppliers). I have a strong sense of obligation towards ensuring the longer-term security of all members of this family, with the continued success and growth of WAFS being the vessel that will allow me to fulfill this obligation.At the same time, I am well aware that it is not all about the destination, so, as a family, at WAFS we take pride in ensuring we enjoy the journey we are on and we celebrate the milestones as they are achieved. Maintaining this balance into the future is a task that I believe is integral to my ongoing involvement with WAFS.

Associate Director & WA State Manager, NS Group
Over 14 years with NS Group, I have worked my up through the ranks from Assistant Project Manager to State Manager. This transition to senior management provides a pathway for other women within the professional services profession to know they can achieve an executive position in their thirties. I run the professional development corporate portfolio for the Group. The emphasis on continued learning is crucial for growth, and I recently re-hauled the graduate training programme. On completion of this programme, the graduates will hold a nationally accredited Diploma in Project Management and be recognised as a Certified Practising Project Manager through AIPM. I encourage the team members at all levels to expand their knowledge network and lead by example through the recent completion of a Master in Business Administration (MBA) and being a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD).

Owner, Newborn Mothers
Julia Jones is the Founder and Director of Newborn Mothers, a global, online education business founded in Fremantle in 2011. Julia has written two books for mothers (one an Amazon Australian bestseller 2019) and created educational courses that have reached over 1000 health professionals in over 30 different countries. Newborn Mothers teaches professionals postnatal and breastfeeding support, including evidence-based information, traditional cultural care and maternal brain adaptations. The World Health Organisation states that the postnatal period is a critical phase in the lives of mothers and babies, yet it is the most neglected period for the provision of quality care.In 2022 Julia plans to do a research based Masters in Health Science to influence public health policy and advocate for access to better quality care for all new families in Australia.Newborn Mothers goal is to change the way our society values and cares for mothers.

Co-Owner, Recharge Petroleum (Group)
Neale Crawford is the Co-owner of Recharge Petroleum/Fuel Trans Australia, which is the BP fuel distributor for Western Australia’s northern region and all the Northern Territory. With over 100 employees, 50 company owned road trains, operating from nine depots. Recharge Petroleum revenue has increased 600% in the last four years.Previously Neale established the fuel equipment hire company Clean Fuels Australia in 2003, which he grew aggressively and sold in 2008.Neale has a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) majoring in Finance & Economic from the Curtin University and the University of Western Australia.

Chief Scientist, Fortescue Metals Group Ltd.
Bart Kolodziejczyk is a polymath and innovator whose portfolio includes two technology companies and three not-for-profit organizations. Currently, Bart is a Chief Scientist for a major resources company. Previously, he has held roles including Visiting Professor, and Chief Technology Officer. Bart has also advised the UN, NATO, OECD, G20, and EU on science, technology, innovation, and policy and was named one of MIT Technology Review’s Innovators Under 35 for his work on conductive polymers and biosensors. Dr. Kolodziejczyk has several patents to his name. Beyond his current intrapreneurial activities, Bart is actively involved in his local community, providing his skills and free-time towards volunteering, mentorship, and science-related education. Bart has appeared in numerous publications, including ABC, Forbes Magazine, Business Insider, and many more. Kolodziejczyk is an active member of the Global Young Academy and IUCN, Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, among others. Bart enjoys traveling and kite surfing.

Joint Managing Directors, Old Salt Perth Pty Ltd trading as The Raft
We embarked on the long and arduous process of gaining the necessary approvals to float an events space in the middle of the swan river. The four year journey of idea generation, design, reports, pitching, negotiating, building and then eventually launching The Raft has taught us a lot about persistence and focus. Being a small family business, we have shown incredible amounts of passion in the pursuit of our dream and in doing so and against all odds, we have succeeded in creating something that we believe WA can be incredibly proud of. This is only the beginning for Dan and myself. We have new dreams that we believe can showcase the natural beauty of Perth in innovative ways. We are working on new Development Applications that will hopefully see us become one of Perth’s most creative and youngest hospitality groups.

Director, Blanc Skin and The Secret Skincare
Dr Clara Hurst BDS graduated as a dentist from King’s College London Medical and Dental School in 2005. Her interest in cosmetic procedures and facial aesthetics led to further training within the field of facial rejuvenation, including training and working as a cosmetic injector at world renowned Harley Street in London.Clara is the owner of Blanc Skin, a private clinic in Cottesloe and co-founder of The Secret, Australia’s first prescription only skincare. With 15 years experience in anti wrinkle and facial sculpting treatments, she attends training and seminars to keep abreast of the latest advancements in techniques and products. She prides herself in achieving very natural results for her patients and believes that a conservative treatment approach is the best way to achieve her signature "untouched” look.Clara is also a trainer and educator for Dermamedical Australia and trains medical practitioners in the latest non-surgical cosmetic enhancement techniques

Managing Director, AVID Group
Aaron Teo used to work in Malaysia for 1 Dollar an hour. His mum’s family came from poverty some were illiterate. If he can become managing director and partner of a mid-size company, so can you. Managing director at Avid Group, Aaron wants to encourage marginalised people to rise up.A recent migrant with no business or family contacts, Aaron entered Eaton’s HV and LV products into the WA market. Impressively, this was Aaron’s first sales job, but he grew Eaton’s sales by 300%. Avid was the first business in WA to supply/distribute Logstrup and Eaton HV and LV products to the mining and industrial sectors. Aaron grew Avid’s revenue by 40% in 2 years except for FY 2019/20 (COVID), staff numbers increased by 40%. Avid aims to reduce Australia’s carbon footprint via renewables as a hydrogen fuel cell provider. The business recently announced an exclusive deal with Intelligent Energy.

Partner, Allen & Overy
I am a partner in the dispute resolution group at Allen & Overy. I have extensive experience in a wide range of high profile commercial disputes, with a particular emphasis on matters arising in relation to the construction and energy and resources sectors. I regularly represent large corporations in high value superior Court litigation and international arbitrations, and am listed in the “Best Lawyers List” for Litigation in Australia, and ranked in Chambers & Partners (globally and in Asia Pacific), the Legal 500 and Doyle's Guide.I take great pride in leading an excellent and diverse team, that supports me in an unwavering commitment to assisting our clients to resolve their most important and strategic legal disputes.I am also passionate about, and take a leading role in, Allen & Overy's commitment to pro bono legal work and community engagement.

Director, Welding Solutions
In the last 10 years in business, I have grown from a steel fabrication business into one of the leading Water Truck manufacturers in Australia with a turnover of 10 million last financial year. My time spent repairing water trucks led me to believe I could design and manufacture a superior Water Truck to what was already available on the Australian market. My trade skills and technical competency has served me well in developing and designing the Welding Solutions Water Truck. They are manufactured in Australia and are durable for the harsh Australian climate that they operate in. Going forward I will continue to maintain a strategic approach to my business and develop new products that are suitable for the Australian market.

MANAGING DIRECTOR, BLASTA BREWING COMPANY
Steven Russell, Founder/Managing Director and Unbridled beer man at Blasta Brewing Company. Founded Blasta Brewing in 2016 and opened a brewery hospitality venue in Burswood 2018 which has become a leader in the WA and wider craft beer scene. A passionate individual in beer brewing and hospitality with a focus on introducing new innovative technologies in manufacturing and hospitality to ensure there is an efficient, sustainable future for the community and the environment. In the (little) spare time Steven has, he spends it with his wife and their 3 children when he is not analysing P&L’s or scrubbing the brewery floors. Luckily, he occasionally gets in a little fitness at Jacobs ladder or occasional game of attempting golf.

Director, DL Social
Demelza Leonard brings a unique edge to the WA Social Media & Marketing space.In 2015, Ms Leonard created DL Social, a marketing and social media consultancy after seeing a gap in the market for outsourced social media & marketing management. In the past 5 years she has developed a strong portfolio of local and national clients across a diverse range of industries and business structures . She has also shared her knowledge in the media on 7 News Perth and 6PR.Ms Leonard's innovative way of fusing her experiences in social media & digital marketing with her former work as a music and pop culture journalist, has seen her develop creative projects including Australia’s first online radio station for small business owners, Boss Mode Radio, in 2018.Her drive to help others succeed, has played a significant role in Ms Leonard's and DL Social’s ongoing success to date.

Executive General Manager, BGC Housing Group
Michael has risen from selling houses from the garage of a display home in 2012 to Executive General Manager of BGC Housing Group – Western Australia’s largest homebuilder. He has steered the construction giant to success during one of the most turbulent times for the construction industry. At the height of the pandemic, he relocated BGC’s home construction operations from eight locations to a single new head office. Consolidating BGC’s multiple brands, he has transformed a disparate collection of home builders into a united, efficient powerhouse. BGC Housing Group this year sold a record number of new homes in WA, securing 50% local market share. It has grown from Australia’s 12th largest homebuilder to 7th. Inspired to give his family the security he never experienced as a child, Michael is driven by the same passion as the BGC’s founder, Len Buckeridge; to help more Australians own their own home.

General Manager, Business Development West, ATCO Australia
Russell James is the General Manager Business Develop West at ATCO Australia. Russell is experienced in the delivery of small to large scale energy and utility infrastructure projects as well as managing a large portfolio of construction projects to the value of approximately $80 Million per year. He has previously held roles in project and portfolio delivery and management including the oversight of all Maintenance and Expansion projects for ATCO Gas in Western Australia as well as innovation projects including the Clean Energy Innovation Hub Microgrid Hydrogen Project which was the first renewable green hydrogen production in Australia and the construction of Western Australia’s first Hydrogen refuelling station. Russell has extensive knowledge of gas and energy markets, pricing, regulations and experience providing innovative and new technology solutions including the integration of renewable energy, gas and hydrogen projects.

Director and Founder, Mealtime Enterprises
Dr Kyla Smith is an Australian paediatric dietitian specialising in managing and preventing fussy eating in kids. The mother of a toddler herself, she has a PhD in childhood weight management and has practised for 13 years. She is the Founder of ‘Baby Mealtimes’ and ‘Toddler Mealtimes’, two practical and comprehensive online programs that have taught thousands of parents worldwide how to feed their children well, and create stress-free and enjoyable family mealtimes so that their kids grow up to be healthy eaters. Offline, she oversees a busy clinic for extreme fussy eaters and their families in Perth, and teaches Nutrition and Dietetics at Curtin University. Dr Kyla is passionate about developing balanced and healthy relationships with food, and fostering positive mealtime experiences for the whole family.

Corporate Development Manager, APM
I am a M&A specialist with >15 years’ experience in Perth and London. I am an executive at APM Group, driving M&A activity across global operations in human services and health. I am passionate about enabling better lives through commercial outcomes.I have completed seven acquisitions, the most significant being Ingeus, which doubled the size of APM and increased its foothold from three countries to ten. I also led the public market takeover of Konekt –an ASX-listed company, the process was run under the public’s gaze and it had its unique challenges, having received competing offers.I led several large private equity investment transactions, including the transition of APM equity partner from Quadrant in Sydney to MDP in Chicago, effectively quadrupling the value of APM.What sets me apart are my values and my interpersonal skills to build rapport and trust with transaction parties, management teams, boards and investors.

Founder & General Manager, SFDesign Pty Ltd (and Mark3d Australia Pty Ltd - related entity)
In 2009, James identified a way to improve technology for Perth’s manufacturers in the mining industry. He established SFDesign, leveraging his experience as a draftsperson and commissioning engineer.James’ vision grew his business from a living-room start-up, to a company with a 7-figure revenue, employing over 45 staff and serving top tier businesses like RioTinto, Austal, and Outotec. In addition to working throughout Australia, James has taken SFDesign’s services to Ghana, Botswana, Malaysia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Norway, Finland, and the United States. His company is 1 of only 4 Australian businesses to sell additive manufacturing technology in partnership with US-based Markforged. He also sells plant design software with Germany-based Smap3D Plant Design.

Director, KTR Creations
Katie Shortland-Webb lives by the motto ‘Do what you love doing and never work a day in your life’. Katie has done so and built KTR Creations, an award winning building design firm, designing custom homes, renovations and developments. At 31 years old, Katie is one of Australia’s youngest award-winning female Building Designers and is well respected by her peers. She has worked hard to receive recognition at renowned building industry awards including Housing Industry Association and Building Designers Association of WA.After starting in the building industry at age 17, Katie’s ongoing dedication and commitment lead her to becoming the youngest Drafting Manager at a building company at age 25, managing a team of 15.As a strong believer in flexibility in the workplace, Katie has created a Building Hub space in Gnangara. She is also a Mum to two beautiful kids and gives back by mentoring TAFE students.

Owner, Vital Beat
As the founder & owner of Perth’s hip hop yoga studios, I’ve developed a business in a typically traditional industry that’s playful, innovative, and responsive. I’ve expanded to two locations and fit out three premises in four years, including a multidisciplinary hub that diversifies its offering with additional modalities. I lean heavily on modern digital marketing techniques and funnel systems, and thorough policies & procedures & staff management structures. With community building strategies both on & offline, digital and physical offerings (including my own merchandise line) and beautiful, warm, thoughtfully designed spaces - people linger longer, to connect & chat, and to feel like they belong in a second home-away-from-home. My passions lie in the cultivation of connected communities, a transparent and proactive position on anti-racism and social justice work and coming from a deep place of service at all times in all the business and leadership decisions I make.

Founding Partner & Director, AdSocial
Amberlea is Australia’s leading chat automation expert on social media, with a direct line to the worlds most recognised industry leaders. Her relationships within the sector are extraordinary and provide her clients with access to Facebook features not publicly available, globally. She has introduced chatbots to the Australian Government, recognised franchisees, SMEs and household names. Her marketing tactics are innovative, memorable and are often talked about well after the campaign ends. Amberlea is flagged as one to watch! An up and coming marketer who is simplifying the way businesses connect with consumers on social media, without human input but rather leveraging powerful automation technologies.

Company Owner/Director, JMH Group
I am from Regional Western Australia. I found school incredibly challenging and left in Year 11 to complete my Heavy-Duty Diesel Mechanical Apprenticeship. I now own a successful business providing mechanical repairs and solutions to the mining, road transport, agricultural and construction Industry. I have a strong and valued team of over 50 people, an increase from 4 people in 2015. We provide services such as mechanical repairs, labour solutions, component exchange and overhauls, undercarriage repairs, mobile hydraulic hoses, parts supply and equipment rental solutions. We provide these services all over Western Australia and in one of the largest workshops in the Midwest. I am passionate about providing career development and opportunities through the Apprenticeship program.My business, JMH Group, is the success it is today thanks to a good professional and personal support network as well as profound determination, a strong work ethic and passion.

Director, Traffic Force
Ironically for someone who oversees a traffic management company, Erin Studor is the ‘unstoppable force’, a motivated business owner who has built a thriving career in the male-dominated civil construction industry. Starting her first business Traffic Force in 2006, Erin took on the ‘big guys’ and began a three-pronged strategy to deliver amazing services, create a strong flow of contract jobs for West Australians and build an incredible local team. She has since expanded to create a construction training business, AusQ Training, and to launch Kali Group, Australia’s first all-female and indigenous owned recruitment agency specifically for civil construction and mining industries. A natural-born connector, Erin has developed her stand-out reputation by building long-standing and effective business partnerships, and genuinely caring about the wellbeing of the people around her. She is never afraid to ask hard questions and works to the saying “In a world of princesses, be Batgirl!”

Chief Technology Officer, Blue Ocean Monitoring
Ben Hollings is the C o-founder & Chief Technology Officer of Blue Ocean Monitoring. Founded in 2014, hiscompany has grown to become a global leader in the development and operation of highly innovativetechnologies for maritime applications.After completing his degree in Engineering and Applied Ocean Sciences, Ben’s passion soon turned to roboticsand autonomous systems and their application in the maritime space. This has led to a diverse range ofprojects across a range of industries.Using technology driven solutions to minimise the impact on the environment has been a driver in his career todate. His entrepreneurial spirit is evident in the businesses he has formed and the work he has done - his abilityto diversify and bring concepts from development stage to fruition and effect is testament to this.

Specialised Shutdown Support, Specialised Shutdown Support
Founder and Director Paul Haines established mine shutdown business Specialised Shutdown Support (SSS) in May 2018. The business offers their clients a unique service where shutdown operations are managed externally by the professional, skilled and experienced SSS team. As Paul’s reputation for service excellence grew in the industry, Paul acquired Matthew Beard as a fellow Director. In two short years the team has grown to 40 employees servicing mining organisations across WA including FMG, BHP and Roy Hill. Paul plans to continue the growth of SSS, diversifying their range of services, increasing the number of mine sites in their portfolio, and expanding their team. Paul anticipates another year of exponential growth for SSS forecasting a 300% increase in revenue for the 2021 financial year.

Managing Director, Flex Fitness Equipment
Navik Shah is the Managing Director of Flex Fitness Equipment, a business he founded and self-funded at the age of 20. The WA-owned fitness equipment retailer has expanded to four stores across WA with warehousing facilities in Sydney and New Zealand. Nav’s interests have extended to gyms and wellness studios, owning and operating three F45 franchises, a state-of-the-art gym and a boutique yoga studio and café. Nav’s passion for fitness and health is matched by a deeply held belief about giving back to the community. Through his work at Flex, he has seen lives change positively due to good health and a positive mindset. Nav has provided generous, ongoing support to Moi Children School in Nakuru, Kenya, for 10 years. He currently volunteers his time and talents to help new entrepreneurs and startups.

Director and Principal Practitioner, Reflex Chiropractic and Physical Therapy
Starting from a chiropractic clinic in a small back room, I have expanded my company into 7 locations within GP clinics. I have successfully broken down the barriers between professions, and now receive patient referrals from GPs for chiropractic care. Reflex Chiropractic also provides physiotherapy and exercise physiology services at these locations, which allows the public access to allied health professionals working collaboratively with their GP. I hope to continue to expand the company, so that patients can get access to quality healthcare in even more locations, with at least one of these being jointly owned with the chain of GP clinics.

Director, Hickman Family Lawyers Perth
Between running a business, being a full time lawyer, and being a mother, I have also had to find a way to stand out in a competitive industry. I genuinely believe there is a better way to do family law; gone are the days of clients spending endless amounts on legal fees during prolonged litigation. It is unsustainable. I have created a business where the focus is on excellent legal advice at affordable rates, and the repeat business and referrals we get are testament to the results we are achieving. I believe our period of rapid growth, moving from 1 to 16 employees within 3 years, is indicative of the service that we are providing to West Australians. I have tried to apply the lessons I have learned from my country upbringing to the way I deal with my clients and staff, to resolve matters quickly and cost effectively.

Chief Executive Officer/ Owner, Skin Rejuvenate Group
In 2015 and in her late 20s, Ankita co-founded Skin Rejuvenate. SRG is a multi-awarded clinic, with 17 staff across 3 clinics as well as a Class B Licensed Day Hospital. Ankita is immensely proud of SRG’s commitment to quality and cutting edge technology in a dynamic industry. Her aim is to set the gold standard.Recently named as one of the Top 100 Global Aesthetic Leaders for 2020/21, Ankita mentors business owners as they start their entrepreneur journey.SRG offer pro bono work for cleft lip corrections among others in society. These treatments are truly life changing.Looking ahead, Ankita is set to take the SRG brand interstate and to consolidate their reputation on the global aesthetics stage. Pro bono work will be offered in 3rd world countries as Ankita seeks to make a difference in any way she can.

Founder and Managing Director, A Digital Marketer
I am an Australian born digital marketer who grew up in Israel and spent 5 years learning the trade in Silicon Valley, USA. This has allowed me to return to Perth and turn my dream of owning my own business into a reality. One of my main reasons for starting A Digital Marketer is to help change people’s perspective that you need massive marketing budgets to succeed and to help them understand that budgets shouldn’t limit your marketing imagination. Through being a co-founder of If Innovation Could Talk I am helping to build the innovation community in Western Australia and shine a light on locally created initiatives. This has the potential to elevate WA created and led ideas on a global scale. My vision for A Digital Marketer is to grow to be the number one choice for family owned businesses in WA and continue to mentor students across Universities.

Managing Director, Source Certain International Pty Ltd
Cameron is a Forensic and Analytical Chemist and a globally recognised expert in his discipline. He has specific experience and expertise in supply chain integrity, security and managing supply chain risks. He is recognised as a thought leader on trends in food, the integrity of food, food fraud, transparency, trust, traceability and provenance and more recently has been a leading voice around the emerging cannabis industry.Cameron founded Source Certain International (SCI) in 2016 and is the current Managing Director. SCI is a global supply chain integrity service provider with a focus on real provenance verification. Currently SCI delivers these services to globally recognised brands, retailers, regulators, law enforcement organisations and companies. Cameron found his first service and technology business in 2006. Cameron, also a respected science communicator, is regularly invited to to contribute to conferences or speak at events. Cameron previously held senior research positions in academia and industry.

Trainee Board Director / Consultant, United Way Western Australia / JourneyOne
Aish is all about empowering diverse and inclusive teams to be at their best. Her involvement within the WA community and focus on business, technology & social impact has led her to be a recipient of the Women in Technology WA Tech [+] 20 Award for 2020, and nominated for the Business News 40 under 40 Award for 2021.Her emerging career has already exposed her to culturally diverse environments as she works across 4 continents (Europe, Asia, Africa & Oceania) providing consultancy in Change Management, Experience Design and Human Centred Design. In addition to her work in Business Consulting through JourneyOne, she is a Trainee Board Director with United Way WA, as well as sitting on their IT sub-committee as they embark upon their digital transformation journey.Always eager to learn and share, you'll often see her upskilling in courses or at conferences and industry nights.

Group Leader, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research
Dr Ravenscroft is an NHMRC Career Development Fellow (2017-22) and leads the Rare Genetic Diseases and Functional Genomics Group at The Perkins. She has published 11 novel human disease genes and has led a number of highly collaborative, international efforts. She has >70 peer-reviewed publications, writes for The Conversation and Australasian Science. She has been awarded >$5M in competitive research funding as Chief Investigator (National and International Funding Bodies). Her international standing is reflected by oral presentations at Annual Congresses of the World Muscle Society (2011, 2015, 2016, 2019). In 2016, she was awarded Young Myologist of the Year at the Congress in Spain, recognising her as a leading EMCR in skeletal muscle diseases worldwide, and an Australian Institute of Policy and Science Young Tall Poppy Award. She is passionate about early-mid career researchers and PhD student training and serves on numerous local, national and international committees and boards.

Change Maker, Empower2Free Pty Ltd
Empower2Free lives to empower every young person to succeed and thrive through being financially independent. By integrating self-awareness and life hacks into money management skills, we build a confident and resilient next generation that is future-ready. Since founding the business, we have obtained several grants, partners and clients. Encouraged by strong testimonials and support from parents, educators and students, we delivered over 29 workshops to more than 300 students. Come 2021, we aim to expand our outreach to more youth students and migrants, equipping them to become work-ready confident adults. We desire to build more partnerships, amplifying our impact while starting out new money management workshops for children in primary school.Finally, I am personally passionate about education, and making a difference to the next generation. I believe that everyone has potential waiting to be unlocked, and that empowering individuals is a means to improving society as a whole.

Metallurgy Discipline Lead, WA School of Mines - Curtin University
Laurence is lucky enough to have found his passion in Metallurgical Engineering after originally training in Chemistry. He has played a key role in the growth in research capacity and reputation at Curtin’s WA School of Mines, in which he sees the potential to be a globally-recognised centre to service the industry. Laurence is also passionate about the experience his team can provide to students, looking to fully exploit the benefits of their location and history. This is driven by love of solving complex problems, the joy he finds in helping the next generation of professionals start their journey and the wonder he finds in the region he now calls home.

Co-founder, Chief Executive, Bruno Health
People need to know that Ascend Health Group and Bruno Health are not just health service businesses or platforms. These companies represent an attitude as much as they do businesses - a beacon against health industry complacency and the idea of accepting “it’s just the way the industry works”. The idea that “we can do better” has allowed us to achieve a workplace culture that the majority of our employees in an anonymous survey recently described as “Amazing”. We have been informed we have some of the lowest attrition rates for support work, which we attribute to the company delivering far above current industry standard of support work. The achievement of our business is the standing proof that employees and organisations alike, are not only capable of doing better but actively want to and engage in doing so when set the challenge.

CEO, Roobix
I am proud of what I have achieved in my 34 years. I hope that my achievements fuel a legacy that will inspire and motivate the leaders of tomorrow to ‘have a crack’. I am humbled by the opportunities that have been afforded to me, and, in this year more than ever feel lucky to have been born in the best city, in the best country in the world. I attribute my success to a loving family that instilled hard work in my DNA. My wise, patient, enduring wife who for 14 years has been my rock and more recently my son, whose simple presence is motivating. Personal attributes for my success can be put down to my genuine nature, positive outlook, and relentless pursuit that we as humans can do better. We only get one turn on this ride called life; we might as well have a crack.

Innovation Quarter, Manager, University of Western Australia
Dr Jo Hawkins is working to bridge the gap between universities and industry. As manager of The University of Western Australia’s Innovation Quarter (UWA IQ), she supports some of the state’s brightest minds to release the value of new ideas and technologies. Jo has sparked connections and collaboration between thousands of researchers, students, funders, investors, and industry. Achievements include facilitating 850+ innovation and entrepreneurship training placements, supporting 150+ UWA projects, and overseeing the branding and launch of IQX, UWA’s first innovation and coworking space. Outcomes included 150+ members, 450+ events, 15,000 visitors, 50+ mentors, $3M+ investment in member enterprises. Jo is also an award-winning writer and lecturer. She aspires to drive Western Australian economic development by creating clearer pathways for industry to engage with UWA, a globally networked, billion-dollar enterprise, offering access to world-leading research and teaching.

Chief Executive Officer, Cahoots Org.
I was appointed Cahoots CEO in 2015, bringing my extensive executive management experience in the NFP sector, including individualised services in recreation, youth, children, indigenous and disability services for over a decade. Cahoots has experienced significant growth and success since. I demonstrate resilience stemming from purposeful innovation, leadership, and courage. I proudly launched an essential service during a pandemic servicing critical needs of vulnerable communities, repurpose 100% workforce, including seasonal and casual staff, maintained recreational service delivery for people facing exceptional challenges, rapidly expanded organisational reach and impact, broaden our customer base and even helped raise over 117K for young people facing exceptional challenges in 19/20 FY.I have had the honour of presenting and sharing my journey of innovation and leadership with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, hundreds across the world at digital Agile conferences and mentor young people to be inspiring servant leaders in both corporate and community sectors.

Director, Inspired IT
Moving to Perth 8 years ago and setting up a business with limited professional connections is a scary thought. With almost five years in business and steady growth throughout those five years, it has been a fun, challenging, scary and a roller coaster of emotions through those years which business owners can only understand. I want to build a business and brand that when people hear about us, they can only say good things about our team members and the company. As we continue to grow and add to our team, I want the team to feel fulfilled within their personal and professional lives or help them get to those dreams, and in turn, if we get this right our clients, their team members will benefit along with their business goals.

Co-founder, Strategic Designer & Ecosystem Lead, Holonic
Dylan is Strategic Designer & Ecosystem Lead at Holonic, a Perth-based design consultancy helping individuals and organisations appreciate and respond to complex challenges. Dylan is a civil and environmental engineer who has grown his professional career towards a focus on design and innovation for holistic impact. He co-founded Holonic in 2019 at age 26. Dylan hosts the Circular Economy Perth (WA) community series of events and workshops, which was initially funded in 2020 by the WA State Government Waste Authority: Community & Industry Engagement fund. Dylan enjoys working with new and emerging technologies and best-practice facilitation, design and innovation methods. He’s currently working with a variety of clients and organisations applying circular and holistic (systemic) design and innovation to help them to be, as he likes to put it; “future-fit, by better design”. His long term vision is systemic change; to create a thriving (circular) economy for Western Australia.

Director, Delta Risk Solutions Pty Ltd
James Royce is currently a director of Delta Risk Solutions. Drawing on 25 years of community engagement and industry experience, James is driven to be the best for his clients, family and community.Being a multidimensional character, his success is based in an ability to build long lasting, rewarding relationships both professionally and personally.

CEO, CIZZY Bridal Australia
After reluctantly taking over my father's business in 2009 and selling my bridal store in 2015, I decided it was time to take CIZZY Bridal Australia to the big league. My exploration of international trade shows has directly contributed to the success of our international sales. In 5 years, we doubled our Australian and in 1 year, we doubled our International sales. CBA's 6 bridal labels are now stocked in 170+ bridal stores worldwide, tripling the number of stores from when I took over the business. Most surprisingly, when many businesses worldwide got severely affected by COVID this year, our business thrived and even increased in sales by 200%. I am passionate about being able to have our 6 bridal labels stocked worldwide and being able to work closely with our stockists to ensure our brands are well represented and continue to service brides from all over the world.

Founder, Chatterbox Public Speaking
Since childhood, Shil Shanghavi has lived with an uncontrollable stutter. Communication was a daily source of extreme anxiety, fear and humiliation. He worked across corporate marketing roles in FMCG and Commercial Fitout for 15 years before setting up Chatterbox Public Speaking in 2018.He now heads up the fastest growing public speaking practice in WA and is a sought-after keynote Speaker, coach and accomplished MC. A disruptor in his field, Shil is pushing boundaries having introduced the concept of public speaking in virtual reality, which is unique to Perth, and rare to the world. Imagined through his own fears, it's just one of the ground-breaking tools Shil uses to show you how to become a better presenter. When Shil encourages you to "get comfortable, being uncomfortable," it’s not just a core value for him, it’s an unshakeable belief in the capability of the human spirit to triumph through adversity.

Systems Completion Engineer, Chevron
Polly Mahapatra is currently a Systems Completion Engineer on the Gorgon Stage 2 project at Chevron Australia. Recently nominated as a finalist for the WA Chamber of Minerals and Energy ‘Outstanding Young Woman of the Year’ 2020 award, her true passion lies in innovation in the oil and gas industry. Polly has previously worked on various major capital projects for Chevron, including Gorgon and Wheatstone. She has held various roles including Field Vessel Engineer, Construction Engineer and Turnaround Support Engineer and has worked offshore, on Barrow Island and in Onslow. She is passionate about improving efficiencies and the application of novel project management ideologies in the world of major capital projects. She is currently co-authoring a paper on the topic of strategic innovation in this area for presentation at the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) conference in 2021.

Director, Smithwick Strata Services
I am really proud of the changes I made in the career over the last 4 years. Some were out of my control and some were in my control. I had to roll with the bumps and back myself in when I had to make the decision to step into Smithwick. I have been reflecting over the last month or two about my recent journey and am really happy with the fact I made the decision to join Smithwick. It was a great unknown and I have adapted to a new business and industry, have managed to grow the business, attract great staff all the while keeping my sense of humour.

Managing Director, BRE Engineering
I am Managing Director of BRE Engineering, husband to Sarah, and father to Myla and Liam. I have always had a desire to create a business that would be recognised as a trusted provider and partner of enduring solutions for clients and a long-term place of secure employment for employees. In 4 years BRE Engineering has gone from being just me, to having 63 employees, upsizing our premises twice and having $9mil banked this year. We are set to exceed $20m next year and we are still recruiting. During this time, I have acquired and merged 2 additional business entities, and pioneered markets I didn’t know would exist in WA when I started. With a GM now onboard, I can return to doing what I love the most; mentoring and supporting my younger staff and breaking into new markets. The next one for BRE will be renewables.

Managing Director, Chalice Mining Limited
Alex was appointed CEO of Chalice Mining Limited in March 2018 at age 31. He has diverse experience in a variety of leadership roles across the resources sector, as a management consultant, engineer, project manager and corporate advisor. Prior to joining Chalice, he was working as a Specialist consultant with the global management consultancy McKinsey & Company. Alex lead Chalice through an exceptional growth period in 2020, where the market capitalisation of the Company grew from c. $50 million to c. $1.3 billion, an increase of >2500% He was recognised as New/Emerging Leader of the Year in 2020 in the MiningNews awards. Chalice made a major platinum group element, nickel, copper, cobalt, gold discovery in WA in early 2020. The unique discovery is being rapidly progressed to feasibility stage and has the potential to lead to a world class, long life mining operation in close proximity to Perth.

Director, Planted Passion Pty Ltd
A drive to provide for his family was the start of Neil Miles’s journey in agriculture. In 2018 Neil’s world turned upside down. Diagnosed with chronic kidney failure with only 6% function, paired with personal tragedy seeing seven immediate family members taken in a mass shooting, Neil now directs his focus towards ensuring farming families thrive. Neil’s core passion is to help others achieve their agricultural goals and maximise profit while improving their business sustainability. Characterising the agriculture industry as an undervalued sector and career choice, which lacks business support, Neil believes WA’s food security is weak with impending scarcities. His company, Planted Passion, works with agriculturalists across WA to achieve improved outcomes. He provides the industry with transformational retail products and education. With fresh produce critical to everyday life, Neil uses his own business property to collect data and prove new sustainable farming models, which he shares freely.

General Manager, PetRescue Ltd
Patima leads the team at PetRescue, a progressive for-purpose organisation with a mission to create happiness and save lives. PetRescue is best known for their tech innovations in the animal welfare space, including running Australia’s largest pet adoption platform www.PetRescue.com.au alongside high impact welfare programs and initiatives working towards creating a future where every pet is safe, respected and loved. She has two decades of experience in the creative tech industry, spearheading thousands of digital projects and leading successful teams across industries. Patima is passionate about pets (obviously!) and people. You’ll find Patima passionately speaking at community events, conferences and writing about topics such as designing for inclusion, burnout prevention, personal growth and creating positive and healthy workplace cultures.

Managing Director, Australian Civil Haulage
As a person and business owner I am a dedicated, people first, hardworking, solution based passionate person.In business, my greatest achievements have been being connected to the success of some of the biggest projects in WA, delivering on our expertise and further strengthening the brand and company. I have built a team that has created ways to improve our business, our company culture, and our solution-based approach to all difficulties. In my tenure I have built and strengthened our relationships across our industry using my expertise to assist and deliver on our promise.The direction for our company is to continue to be a part of all the major projects building WA, I am also looking at diversifying into other parts of WA to develop other relationships and find extra means of revenue and success.

Managing Director, KTrans
A genuine and respected leader who has consistent success of turning under performing assets, whether they be people, equipment or businesses, into leading performers in their chosen field. In the service industry, outcomes are driven by the passion of your people. They need to believe in the business, believe in the direction and believe in themselves. Leaders can drive their team to success by installing confidence in the team with a clear pathway to success. Standing for nothing but the highest of quality in everything we aim to do, we are disciplined enough to all know that shortcuts are not an option. Guided by our five pillars we will continue to invest in opportunities that add strength to both our balance sheet and operating performance.Quality attracts quality -and we will continue to drive the WA economy with the highest of quality logistical service standards.

Director & Owner, Pretzel Australia
At only 23 years old, Brittany Garbutt launched the first pretty in pink Pretzel store in Northbridge, WA. in 3 short years her business has since grown to five stores in WA and three in VIC with another 4 already on their way! Pretzel is the home of all thing fun and pink! turning out millions of dollars worth of Hand crafted and on site balked pretzels each year. With a team of 167 staff members, Brittany is the sole director and managing director with a particular knack for social media and branding. The fun, exciting, youth-inspired store designs and interesting social media presence are one of the strongest points of not only the Business by Brittany as a business woman.

Head of Marketing, Nicheliving
I joined Nicheliving following an extensive 16-year career in the supermarket sector, culminating as National Marketing Manager at Coles, Melbourne HQ.Within weeks of joining Nicheliving, I implemented a range of far-reaching marketing initiatives that successfully drove unprecedented sales growth. This significant accomplishment took place despite the major economic downturn resulting from COVID.My initiatives saw an unprecedented 1005% growth in sales enquiries, which translated into record breaking sales. As a result, Nicheliving successfully navigated COVID, launched 4 new business units and increased staffing by 20% in the peak of COVID.I always give my all to any new challenge. Despite not having property industry experience, I worked diligently to understand everything about the sector so I could implement initiatives that would likely succeed.I am a dynamic and innovative marketing professional who leads by example. I always seek to inspire the whole team to strive to achieve new goals.

Head, Airway Neutrophil Biology, Telethon Kids Institute
I am a West Australian medical researcher whose passion is to find new ways to manage inflammation in the lungs of children with chronic respiratory diseases. For these children, their own immune system is often stuck in a mode of activation and this results in the immune system being the main cause of harm to the lungs. Despite many medical advancements, the drugs available to control inflammation of the airway remain pretty rudimentary and can often be counterproductive. My belief is that this is because the medical community has long mistaken the neutrophil, the body's most numerous immune cell, as a simple cell responding to the commands of others. My research has shown how the neutrophil can damage lung tissue, behave in a wider variety of roles than imagined and provided new tools to study this immune cell in the laboratory and the clinical setting.

CEO, Advanced Mining Production Systems & LiveMine Solutions
Brendan is an exceptionally creative serial entrepreneur who is revolutionising the mining industry. He started AMPS nine years ago and is now considered a leader in providing mining technical services around the globe. For the past two years AMPS has doubled in size, growing to 33 employees, with a 36% female employment rate, as of 25/11/20. This year, Brendan has focused on establishing the AMPS Academy. A non-tertiary training academy focusing on changing the mining industry standard for professional development. In 2019 Brendan co-founded LiveMine, mining software that allows data to be collected at the source in real time. LiveMine has experienced a strong growth trajectory, with 15 site implementations over the past two years. In addition, LiveMine completed their first round of funding earlier this year to fast track future growth. Brendan is extremely passionate about the mining industry and hopes to be a catalyst for lasting change.

Director, Founder and Owner, Mi Casa Property Boutique
Reflecting back on career in hospitality and property and my early family life I have had many barriers I have navigated often solo.This has been extremely challenging and lonely at times leaving not much time or room to celebrate success. I started this business from scratch with 2 stressed out business partners with no savings/equity behind us in the worst property market since the Great Depression where the only way was up or out.Applying for this award makes me uncomfortable, however I have been nudged to do so by my colleagues and clients as a win for me means a win for us.It may not be clear in our financials as they are Covid-19 compromised due to the break in rents and fees in the last quarter of 2020 however our revenue and profit has doubled in the last 12 months so Micasaproperty.com Global here we come!

Founder, Moreira’s Magic
Selby Lee-Steere is a two-time winner of the highly competitive AFL Fantasy competition. With two cars in the garage and prize money in the bank, he was inundated with requests from Fantasy enthusiasts about how he did it. As an ex-WAFL footballer with a corporate finance background, Selby used his expertise to develop Moreira’s Magic, a stats driven AFL Fantasy guide, full of tips and advice for the upcoming football season. It came with a twist – 100% of proceeds were to be donated to charity. The initiative took off and has resulted in almost $100,000 donated to the Starlight Children’s Foundation and Australian Red Cross over the past three years. Selby has big plans for Moreira’s Magic and is in the process of expanding the services provided via a web-application. He hopes this will unlock significant funds and help brighten the lives of sick kids well into the future.

Co-Founder and Co-Director, Compliance Co. and 3Lines Digital
Since risking it all by ceasing my business studies, as a now practised Compliance Consultant, we maintain ComplianceCo.'s trusted brand status in WA, for small to mid-tier financial advice practices. Off this back of this great success, we continue to develop and pilot our 3Lines Digital compliance software, with a view to provide an affordable tool for SMEs to facilitate quality advice to mum and dad investors, by remaining a compliant entity. We are committed to making compliance accessible across the board, rather than to just the big end of town. I have an extremely supportive partner and 2 year old son, who I hope will understand one day, that anything is possible with the right mix of hard work, passion and continued improvement, both professionally and personally.

CEO/ Creative Director, Alf the Label
My name is Sophie Doyle, the owner and CEO of Alf the Label. I’m a mum who designs products for mums, specialising in stylish leather baby bags that don’t compromise on functionality or practicality. We want all mums to be proud of the bag they carry and feel confident and stylish whilst still being useful. We are committed to supporting women and families through our ongoing partnership with I=change and continue to ethically source all our materials from quality suppliers. At Alf the label we are a team of 5 staff that have been operating for 4 years. Our small team goes above and beyond to provide exceptional product and service offering to our loyal customers. We are proud to have grown Alf the Label to a highly successful business within 4 years of operating.

Director, Casa del Amici, Catalano Group Holdings Pty Ltd
I am a single mother with two jobs, both of which I am totally committed to and passionate about. Hospitality has been in my blood since I started ‘flipping burgers’ at Hungry Jacks at 13. People who know me say that I am determined and driven in everything I do.My restaurant is my life. I am happiest when I’m serving a table of satisfied, happy customers who leave my trattoria groaning about having eaten too much but vowing to come back again for more next week!To be a successful female restaurateur operating in a male-dominated industry, gives me immense satisfaction. Nearly as much as when I was told after my divorce that, “you’ll never survive in this business on your own.” With the support of new partners, and renewed confidence, we are now in position to expand the ‘Casa’ brand and take it to the next level.

Owner, Peggy Sue's Agency
Bee Rizzi is the founder, owner and driving force behind Peggy Sue’s Parlour and Peggy’s Sue’s Agency. After establishing the Parlour as Perth’s quintessential rock n roll hair salon over the last decade, Bee took the leap in 2019 and launched Peggy Sue’s Agency, expanding her services to include event management, creative direction, photography, graphic design and styling. From her early days as the owner-operator of a tiny hair salon inside an art gallery in Northbridge, she now has two staff members and regularly engages contractors to deliver events across Perth and Fremantle. Bee sees the Agency as the hot sister to Peggy Sue’s Parlour, and her goal is to grow the business into a full-service creative agency within the next five years.

Co Director, Old Salt Perth Pty Ltd trading as the Raft
We embarked on the long and arduous process of gaining the necessary approvals to float an events space in the middle of the Swan River. The four year journey of idea generation, design, reports, pitching, negotiating, building and then eventually launching The Raft has taught us a lot about persistence and focus. Being a small family business, we have shown incredible amounts of passion in the pursuit of our dream and in doing so, we have succeeded in creating something that we believe WA can be incredibly proud of. This is only the beginning for Katie and myself. We have new dreams that we believe can showcase the natural beauty of Perth in innovative ways. We are working on new Development Applications that will hopefully see us become one of Perth’s most creative and youngest hospitality groups.

Director, Kleen Slate Services Pty Ltd
I am the owner and Director of Kleen Slate Services, a WA Department of Health approved and IICRC certified firm delivering professional and quality cleaning and restoration services. I pride myself on being open, honest and approachable, as well as remaining up-to-date on the latest standards and certifications in the cleaning and restoration industry, by obtaining and sharing information nationally and internationally for the development of the industry. I have recently won three business awards at the Rockingham Kwinana Chamber of Commerce Regional Business Awards, and am highly regarded as a successful business entrepreneur in the Rockingham/Kwinana region.

Director, Eire Total Access Pty Ltd
I started my first business in 2012, and looking back, he lessons learnt and knowledge gained is almost endless. My journey so far has been a winding path with many ups and downs, but I take everything as an opportunity to learn, grow and teach. Every day I strive to grow my emotional intelligence and the more I learn, the more I understand the value of authentic human connection.Eire Total Access is a thriving well balanced workplace where everyone is accepted, no one is seen as having a fault, they are just encouraged to explore, grow and understand themselves with my support and guidance. From 2012, this day, and in the future, my focus will always be people before profits where work-life balance is a must and always stepping forward in life.

Chief Commercial Officer, Perth Airport
Kate is the Chief Commercial Officer at Perth Airport where she leads the retail, ground transport, customer experience, marketing and digital teams. An experienced retail & property professional with 15+ years’ experience in senior leadership and multi-site roles, Kate was previously Regional Manager WA for Scentre Group (Westfield) leading teams across 3 centres with combined asset valuations of $4b and up to $2b in annual retail sales. Using her entrepreneurial skills within large organisations to create a culture of innovation, agility and customer focus, Kate’s strength is in her ability to recognise and unlock the brilliance of others, mobilising teams to drive the business forward.An active member of the Perth Airport executive team, Kate mentors emerging leaders, sits on the Tourism Council WA board and the City of Kalamunda Economic Development Committee. Kate holds a Masters in Business Administration, is a licensed Real Estate agent and experienced company director.

Managing Director, Lightning Brick Pavers Pty Ltd
From humble beginnings as a one-man paving business in 2005, today I have built a diverse group of construction businesses employing more than 50 staff with revenues exceeding $12M Aud. We have operations in sub-contracting hardworks, civil contracting and bespoke product manufacture and supply. We count some of WA’s largest commercial construction companies as our valued clients, including Georgiou, Brookfield Multiplex, BGC, Probuild and more. My journey in building a diverse outfit in a challenging industry has been one filled with excitement, obstacles, adversity, friendships and fun. I’m excited about a future where we continue to attract, retain and develop the industry’s best talent. I remain committed to delivering high-quality solutions, services and products for clients both throughout the state and across the country.

National Civilian Government Lead, Microsoft Pty Ltd
I joined Microsoft in 2019 as National Civilian Government Lead. Leveraging my deep government knowledge and experience, I guide and mentor governments meet their challenges in the world of digital disruption. An award-winning transformation specialist, I have held multiple Executive Director roles with WA Government. My expertise lies in crafting the strategies and culture required to drive enduring value for enterprises, citizens and employees.Before joining the public sector, I spent seven years as a Director with Serco, leading their Citizen Services business in WA.With 20 years’ senior executive experience spanning banking, superannuation, professional services and the public sector, I am specifically attuned to the challenges digital disruption brings and its impact on individuals, teams and organisations.In 2018, I was recognised by CIO Australia as one of the top 50 digital leaders in Australia and named Gold CXO Disruptor of the Year by the Australian Computer Society.

Chief Financial Officer, Rental Management Australia
I like to see myself as an atypical chartered accountant who embraces risk rather than seeks to avoid it. I’ve had some notable failures throughout the course of my life so far and I like to think that they’ve laid the foundations for my success. I took on a business venture when the state of the market and the common view would have dictated otherwise, managed an early stage pandemic and pivoted our business model within months of taking the helm. Rather than retreat from the challenge, I like to think I’ve led with confidence, the RMA team has grown significantly during a period of global uncertainty and we are now market leaders in our field with ambitious plans for the next phase of growth.

Co-Founder and Co-Director, Compliance Co. and 3Lines Digital
I am an experienced compliance professional, having gained a breadth of experience during my time at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, Deloitte and Macquarie Private Wealth. My prior experience set the scene to start Compliance Co, a risk and compliance consulting firm for Australian Financial Services Licensees. In 2020, Compliance Co. has gone digital with the development of its 3Lines software, providing an automated cloud-based solution to managing ongoing compliance obligations for Australian Financial Services Licensees.

director, Life Mediation
We all deal with conflict on a daily basis and it causes a lot of suffering, especially in families. Lisanne is committed to make a difference and teach as many people as possible how to be effective in resolving conflict, communication and negotiation. With these skills people can have better relationships, peace of mind and happiness in their lives. Lisanne helps people to resolve conflict and works on developing her clients' skills base in her mediation sessions and workshops. Lisanne provides training through her online programs and her podcast Conversations to cut the conflict. Lisanne teaches mediation at Murdoch University, the College of Law, Edith Cowan University. Lisanne won the award for Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner of the Year at the Australian ADR Awards. She was a finalist nominated for Australian Mediator of the Year in 2019 and 2020 at the Australasian Law Awards.

Executive Director, DataDrivesInsight.com
Sasha is a culture specialist with Masters in Organisational Psychology. Over the past decade she has worked for Veraison, a like-minded organisation striving to help both individuals and organisations reach their full potential. A year ago she and her colleagues wanted to do more, to meaningfully impact the lives of others who work for or rely on the services of aged, health or safety critical industries. They created DataDrivesInsight.com, a WA based start-up that markets 360-degree feedback tools to these industries. As an Executive Director, Sasha leads the research and product development teams within DDI.com, enabling her entrepreneurial spirit and people-driven focus to shine. She was also instrumental in designing highly reliable and valid tools that have the future potential to inform individuals, organisations, industries, peak bodies and governments on how to drive more effective leadership and people capability within more vulnerable sectors.

Director, Coterra Environment
I am a co-founding director of Coterra Environment, a consultancy established 10 years ago which provides environmental science and hydrological services. My passion lies with moving Perth towards becoming a ‘water sustainable city’ and incorporating waterwise design as standard practice in urban environments. I have managed numerous development projects that have won State and National environmental/water awards for excellence, across various industry associations.I sit on a number of boards, technical industry groups, and committees advising on water policy and providing expertise to Government and key decision makers. Several of these positions focus on capacity building in government and industry, water advocacy and sustainability, driving legislation and policy, and focusing on science education & training. In addition to the volunteering within my industry, I also volunteer in the community in other non-scientific capacities (working with people with intellectual disabilities, refugees, children in foster care).

Managing Director, Energy Smarts
I'm Adam Gangemi, a well educated, passionate individual who looks for ways to add value to a business through sustainable measures. I'm passionate about educating businesses and the community about the right ways to reduce costs that ensure businesses are not wasting electricity/money, however, running a lean and efficient operation that targets business longevity through health, safety, sustainability and financial outcomes. Energy Smarts is the vehicle I use professional and Sustainable Energy Now (NFP) the vehicle in the wider community to help educate and achieve these goals. Life is all about incremental change and providing value to achieve new targets for the betterment of society. By the time I retire, I hope that the value and passion I bring to my work and volunteering ventures has had an extremely positive impact for the Western Australian people.

General Manager, Kuuwa Rentals
I am Wes Chapman. Familyman and passionate advocate who is day by day bridging the gap between indigenous businesses and the mining sector. I have created and built up Kuuwa as an example of how other aboriginal corporations can create sustainable commercial arms to support their communities whilst also educating the business world about the importance of acknowledging, supporting, and working with indigenous people, their communities, and their businesses for a brighter and fairer future for all. I have leveraged my experiences and network to spread this message and help businesses with their Reconciliation Action Plans. I will continue to educate and influence as many people as I can because I truly believe this needs to be part of every business's culture and not just an opportunity to tick a box.

Founder, Jalebi Connection
I more than 20 years of business experience growing, starting up, repositioning, and revitalizing SMEs (Small and Medium Size Enterprises). Have successfully supported owners in their exit strategy, worked in business development capacities, improved customer service, and streamlined organizations. I have experience of working with business owners across Northern America, Pacific-Asia, Middle East, Europe and Pakistan. My experience expands on a wide range of vertical markets and industries, while improving operations and sales in companies like Citibank, Northwestern Mutual, BR Group of Automotives and Realestate.com.au. In addition to working directly with customers, I have created and implemented training programs for Quickbiz that are continuously updated to meet new trends. These training programs formulate a practical and easy to follow routines that ensure that the program lives long enough to create the change the organization or individuals strive for.

Partner, Estrin Saul Lawyers
Daniel Estrin lives two professional lives - one as partner of WA's largest specialist immigration law firm Estrin Saul Lawyers, the other as lead singer of internationally acclaimed rock band Voyager.Born in Germany and migrating to WA with his parents in 1992 at the age of 11, Daniel had to learn how to be sunsmart, the significance of "Agro's Cartoon Connection" and most importantly, how to speak English. A classically trained musician, he ended up studying law at UWA and continued his musical endeavours throughout his career with the Department of Immigration, the Australian Government Solicitor and global law firm Fragomen. In 2014, he and business partner Reuben Saul founded Estrin Saul Lawyers, which now has over 20 staff across two States. Law and music are Daniel's two passions; he has excelled in both and isn't stopping any time soon: Voyager is commencing work on album number 8!

Co Founder, Muscle Worx
Adam has always been a huge advocate for health and fitness, from starting his career as a personal trainer at 20 selling supplements to regulars at his local gym to rising to be one of the youngest and most successful health and fitness entrepreneurs in WA.At 32 Adam now owns 28 sports nutrition retail stores Supplement Mart across WA and SA, with extensive business interests in manufacturing product internationally and locally which are seen across his stores. His goal and dream is to grow to 80 stores nationally over the next 5 years and one day have his own manufacturing facility located right here in Western Australia.

Chief Executive Officer, Grant Transformers Pty Ltd
I am a technology entrepreneur and I believe a strong foundation with deep roots is important. It allows one to build a strong and sustainable future. From early in my career, I was earmarked into senior roles. I was involved in a business doing low turnover to eventually partaking in the sale of the company to a public listed entity. I have the benefit of SME and corporate experience. I have been building my foundation in Perth for four years now. My purpose is to be able to move forward confidently and meet my personal ambitions of becoming a technology leader in Australia and internationally. I believe Western Australia is ripe to become a technologically advanced society, both from a landscape and cultural point of view. I want to help drive that outcome over the next few years. I personally want to be the next great “Musk” of Australia.

Finance Director, Pentanet Ltd
With an impressive career in Western Australia and beyond, Tim Cornish is a standout business leader in the fields of finance, telecommunications and management. Under his guidance, FFF Australia achieved significant scale with the establishment of a global supply chain, with Tim continuing his role as Executive Director of the company in 2020 and beyond. His current role as co-founder and Finance Director of Pentanet, has seen him create a solid foundation for the company’s rapid growth, from start-up to publicly listed company in under four years. As a father and community advocate, Tim is focused on improving the education system to see students graduate ready to enter the ‘workforce of tomorrow’. His commitment to creating jobs for Western Australia was recently recognised in Pentanet’s finalist status in the 2020 WA Employer of the Year category.

Director, Insight Advisory Group
Coming from a family of business owners, I have a passion for bringing new ideas to market, analysing situations, finding solutions and designing new paths. I have gained experience at KPMG and Grant Thornton, my systems and processes improvement skills at Siemens Finance China and developed my cost control and marketing abilities while working for the South African Embassy in Paris. My skills and love for business improvement led me naturally to Management Consulting. I am actively working with clients involved in a wide range of industries – mining, not-for-profit, engineering, retail, wholesale, professional services, manufacturing, chemicals, construction, finance and IT.

General Manager/Director, North Bird Wine Store & Bar
In summary, I am a huge advocate of mental health and sharing your story to connect with others. Success should not only be measured by the success financially but also the ability to ask for support and be there for others that need support. Ezra Pound is a success story, from losing money to being highly profitable, The Bird is profitable and North Bird is is new business growing. I think its amazing that we made it through this year, while a lot of hospitality venues closed. But success shouldn't be measured by money, but through the story of what you went through to get to where you are. We need to share failures through ego as it will help others as they don't have to live through your mistakes. Shout on top of a building your failures as others need to hear so they know they are not alone.

Founder and Program Lead - She Codes, Spacecubed
Kate is a passionate advocate for women in STEM and the innovation ecosystem. Founder of She Codes, she has led the steep growth of the project since 2015. Thanks to her work, more than 4500 women have learnt to code through free programs. She has hustled to source more than $850K from government and industry to support women in STEM. With a regional upbringing, she strongly believes in empowering women from the world’s remotest regions, from as far north as Port Hedland and Karratha, and east as far as Brisbane. Kate has contributed to the growth of Spacecubed, joining as employee number 4, and since 2014 has played a pivotal role in building community and coordinating other programs including Plus Eight, Startup Weekend, Meshpoints. Kate was recently awarded the West Australian Rising Star award and was a runner up for the 2019 and 2020 Seven News Young Achiever Awards.

Executive Director, Triathlon Western Australia
My position goals are, to ensure the longevity of the organisation from membership, engagement and financial perspective. I wanted to put the organisation in a better position than when I started. I wanted to ensure the culture was one that was motivating for all involved, that people enjoyed who they worked for and what they did. There were changes to structures and roles, all designed for future growth. Developing culture and team environment is crucial to success. I ensured everyone knew what we did as an organisation and most importantly why we do it. If we united on our “Why” then we are on the path to moving the organisation forward and allowing not only our members but the wider WA community benefit from the sport of triathlon. I have made progress towards my goal, firstly stopping the decline in membership, secondly returning a profit to the organisation in FY2020

Managing Director, Sampa Australia Pty Ltd
I am a professional business executive helping companies to find new markets, clientele, establish new enterprises, recruit and develop teams to expand their network. Originally from Turkey I had started my own business as a franchise owner of UPS. One of my major achievements was establishing a Pay@Door system. Moving to Perth with my family in 2012 I left behind my social and business network and had to start all over again. By 2013 I was a BDM at Thrifty WA as part of which I gained a good understanding of the mining sector and established a customer friendly kiosk at IKEA Perth. In 2019 I established the Oceanic branch of Sampa Automotive and ever since then I have been busy ever expanding our market.

Imperium Engineering Pty Ltd, Imperium Engineering Pty Ltd
The driving force behind Imperium is to make the West Australian Industry better than it was yesterday. We are strive to keep work in WA and Australia and work on Projects that make life safer and the environment better than yesterday. We are heavy invested in Hazardous Area Safety and Alternative Energy Solutions. Coming back from our previous company bigger, better and stronger shows the strength and certainty we have to make this happen.

CEO, Terra Rosa Consulting
I'm an archaeologist by training with a wealth of experience in enterprise development, heritage consulting and project management across Australia, and a strong understanding of state and national heritage legislation and best-practice methodologies. As CEO of Terra Rosa, I oversee a team of over 40 consultants who engage in heritage management approvals, Native Title research, stakeholder consultation and community project facilitation. Our passion is working in true partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on projects that directly benefit local communities, including through collaboration with Aboriginal Corporations. I also helped established the TR Foundation in 2016 to help improve wellbeing through promoting arts and culture, community development initiatives, creating business opportunities and preserving Australian cultural history.

Chief Executive Officer, Essential Personnel
With over eighteen years of experience within the not for profit sector, Dawn has managed a range of services at a national, regional and local community levels across the UK and Western Australia. Dawn’s interest has always been in reducing the gap of social exclusion for vulnerable clients through targeted provision and community integration. The varied experience that Dawn has across all levels of an organisation (from volunteering to CEO) within the not for profit sector, has placed her in a position of unique insights making her an invaluable and influential leader within the Not For Profit sector.

CEO, Breast Cancer Care WA
I first joined Breast Cancer Care WA back in 2006, working in Fundraising and Marketing. What was originally a three-month contract role extended out to almost three years, after which I joined Santa Maria College as the Director of Community Relations and Development. With my two personal passions being women’s health and children, it was a natural fit to then join Starlight Children’s Foundation – first in a role looking after partnerships in WA, then adding the responsibility for South Australia to my role, and ultimately joining the Executive Team in the national role of Head of Fundraising, based in Sydney.Perth was always home and upon relocating back in 2014, I was over the moon to be invited to return to Breast Cancer Care WA to take on the role of Chief Executive.

General Manager - Eliwana, Fortescue Metals Group
Katie Day was appointed to the position of General Manager Eliwana, at Fortescue Metals Group (Fortescue) in January 2020.Having started at Fortescue almost a decade ago, Katie has progressed from a department Personal Assistant to now the General Manager of Eliwana, Fortescue’s mine and rail development in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Katie has achieved many records, including some of the lowest ever safety frequency rate, record monthly and quarterly shipped tonnes and record quarterly railed tonnes.Through Katie’s strong determination and leadership, Eliwana Operations, hold some of the leading diversity rates across Fortescue’s Pilbara Operations, something which Katie is very proud of.Katie’s factors of success include her business improvement and action orientated approach to production results and embedding herself in the team to understand their challenges.

Founder & CEO, CSG Marketing
With a passion for global strategy, innovation and ideas that move the world forward, I have spent my career working with businesses in more than 30 countries building programs that focus on growth and value innovation. In this time, I was lucky enough to live and work in Boston, Singapore and New York.It was this that led me to start my entrepreneurial ventures. I saw the leading business and marketing practices that were happening on the global stage and wanted to solidify them to help smaller and medium sized businesses.I work with business leaders to understand, challenge and unlock the value they have for the world, and use marketing and insights to help them reach their vision.

North 2 South Executive Homes Pty Ltd, North 2 South Executive Homes Pty Ltd
Haydn’s journey has not been easy, his foresight to constantly innovate is testament to where he is today. Initially working in Karratha, the mining downturn forced the development of a subsidiary company (Karratha Construction & Maintenance) and in order to survive, Haydn relocated to Albany with the vision of providing high end homes. Recommencing business in a town which was already home to a high volume of builders was a high risk move; a high-quality building company which was passionate about the industry and passionate about customer service, was sure to cause friction. Haydn has constantly adjusted to the building market and has built strong relationships with older, more experienced builders and business people who have, and continue to, offer invaluable advice and mentorship. In less than 3 years Haydn has built a reputation as one of the region’s leading builders.