6 minute read
WOMEN'S BIZ GLOBAL
Editorial Team
ANNIE GIBBINS FOUNDER, CEO AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Annie Gibbins is a multi award winning Business leader, Founder and CEO of Women’s Biz Global.
Annie is also a Board Director, Philanthropist, Key Note Speaker, Podcast and Summit Host and #1 Best Selling Author.
Annie's many professional accolades gained over 30 years across Health, Education, Corporate, NFP and Charity sectors drive her to inspire and empower women across the globe to achieve unlimited success in business and life.
Amazingly Annie has achieved her success whilst raising my family of five including 2 sets of twins born 26 months.
Ally Hensley Executive Producer
Ally Hensley is a writer, speaker, and global ambassador in women's health and happiness.
Ally has written for leading publications on mental health, infertility, body positivity, and has become a regular media interviewee, and speaker on topics linked to health, well-being and creating content that matters.
Ally is inspired by conscious start-up's and has become an international go-to on how to maximise impact with big ideas, and heart. Inspired by women with a backstory.
Currently, Ally is writing her debut memoir, after completing a Diploma with The London School of Journalism.
Prudence Clark Editor
Prudence has always had a flair and passion for writing and after studying a degree in Journalism and a Masters in Journalism and Creative Writing, she has never put the pen down. With astute editing, copywriting and proofreading skills, Prudence is able to produce the words you want, when you want.
With vast copywriting and editing experience over a range of industries, including tourism, health, construction, publishing, music and the arts, Prudence takes pride in developing creative and engaging copy that inspires not only clients, but also readers. Her love of words drives her passion for making content as good as it possibly can be.
By Shelli Brunswick
I AM DELIGHTED TO SHARE WITH YOU THE EXCITING JOURNEY OF MY CAREER AND MY EXPERIENCES IN THE GLOBAL SPACE ECOSYSTEM. AS THE CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER OF SPACE FOUNDATION, I HAVE BEEN FORTUNATE TO WITNESS THE INCREDIBLE CONTRIBUTIONS OF DIVERSE INDIVIDUALS IN VARIOUS FIELDS, ALL WORKING TOWARD SPACE INNOVATION AND THE BETTERMENT OF LIFE ON EARTH. THIS CHAPTER WILL EXPLORE THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT EXIST IN THE SPACE INDUSTRY, ESPECIALLY FOR WOMEN, AND THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTORSHIP IN PAVING THE WAY FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE. I INVITE YOU TO JOIN ME IN THIS THRILLING ADVENTURE INTO THE WORLD OF SPACE AND BEYOND.
Introduction
As COO of Space Foundation, one of the world's leading space advocacy organizations, my journey into space began in the U.S. Air Force, where I served as an Acquisition and Program Management leader before becoming a Congressional liaison. My career has been diverse and expansive, fueled by my passion for championing women in business and increasing their representation in the space industry. Today, I oversee three divisions that contribute to space innovation and drive positive change on our planet: Symposium 365, the Center for Innovation and Education, and Global Alliance.
Space4Women Mentorship Program
One of the most exciting roles and initiatives I am involved in is serving as a mentor for the United Nations' Space4Women mentorship program. This program aims to create sustainable development goals for gender equality and equal education, providing women and girls with access to the space ecosystem. Sharing knowledge and empowering future generations are essential steps in ensuring a future that matters. I am also a mentor for multiple entrepreneurs through the WomenTech Network, which promotes diversity and inclusion in various industries.
The Power of Mentoring
Finding the right mentor who aligns with your beliefs and values can be transformative for your career. A mentormentee relationship can help overcome challenges and pave the way for success. It is a mutual relationship, as mentors also learn from their mentees. Regardless of your stage of life or career, a mentoring relationship can fuel personal and professional growth.
Space: Beyond Astronauts and Satellites
When most people think of a career in space, they often envision astronauts and satellites. However, the space industry is vast and diverse, offering opportunities for professionals from various backgrounds — not just STEM or IT experts. Journalists, HR professionals, policy makers, educators and others all contribute to the space ecosystem in meaningful ways. The space industry has become commercialised, making it accessible to anyone with passion and determination.
Space Technology in Diverse Sectors
The space industry intersects with numerous sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, education, transportation, communication, public relations, finance and cybersecurity. Space technology, such as precision agriculture, can improve crop yields and sustainability. It can also aid in determining water usage and provide opportunities for growing food and resources on other planets. The reciprocal learning between space and Earth has resulted in groundbreaking innovations across multiple industries.
Inclusion and Diversity in the Space Industry
The space industry has evolved to become more inclusive and diverse. While gender inequality was once a prevalent issue, organizations like Space Foundation and programs like Space4Women have driven positive change. By highlighting the accomplishments of women and minorities in the space industry, we can inspire future generations to pursue their dreams without constraints.
The Promising Future of the Space Industry
The global space ecosystem is thriving, and the industry is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
With thousands of pending patents waiting for innovative application and commercialization, the space economy is projected to be worth trillions of dollars in the near future. As we explore the possibilities of settlements and research centers as well as our existence on other planets, the space industry needs new talents with a diversity of backgrounds, ages and ethnicities from various regions of the world to contribute their skills and expertise.
Conclusion
The global space ecosystem offers boundless opportunities for individuals from all walks of life. Together, we can inspire future generations and create a world that embraces diversity, equality and inclusion. As we continue to explore the mysteries of space, let us also remember our responsibility to care for our planet and ensure a sustainable future. Join me on this journey to foster a thriving and inclusive space industry, where every dreamer can find their place among the stars. Together, we can do great things!
Acknowledgments
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all the mentors, mentees and colleagues who have supported and inspired me throughout my career. Your guidance and encouragement have been invaluable in shaping my passion for space and promoting diversity in the industry. Thank you for believing in the limitless potential of humanity and for working tirelessly to make the world a better place.