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March 2023
Editor's Note
Special Edition: Women’s Biz Magazine for
International Women’s Day 2023
A
s women and thought leaders, it is our duty to carry and continue the legacy of women who make a difference. But here’s the thing, making a difference can be made in a multitude of ways. You don’t need to be a world leader, or a milliondollar CEO to make an impact on those who matter. Wouldn’t you agree? In the pursuit to showcase women that have made a difference, in their unique and individual way, as part of the spectacular International Women’s Day 2023 campaign, we have
created this one-off, special edition, announcing ‘Women to Watch: 2023’. We are surrounded by women who have made a significant impact on their communities, their families, clients, and tribes. Afterall, being part of a collective not only inspires, but has the ability to define success on their terms Let me tell you this – the number of nominations was outstanding. This was a bittersweet moment – as I thought, “how can I possibly select just 23 women, from over 100 nominations?” So, I decided, I don’t have
to, because at Women’s Biz Global we don’t set limiting parameters. The stories behind every nomination will not go untold – and I want you to watch this space as the year continues. However, in this issue we have selected 23 women, who in their fields, are making a significant contribution in their sector, impacting their community in a powerful way, and who are inspirations for the women and girls of our future. Thank you for supporting Women’s Biz Magazine, and let’s celebrate the Women to Watch in 2023. WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 3
Women's Biz Magazine
WOMEN'S BIZ GLOBAL EDITORIAL TEAM
ANNIE GIBBINS
ALLY HENSLEY
FOUNDER, CEO AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
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. 4 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
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.
KEZ WICKHAM ST GEORGE STRUCTURAL EDITOR Kez is an international award winning best selling author, with a movie created f rom her recent novel Scribe. Kez is also a international speaker with many years of experience in the motivational creative arts and theatre. She is driven to inspire others by creating global anthology’s sharing her vast experience by running workshops in the art of creative writing and Journaling. Her passion for uplifting women has bought her many skills to the global notice board.
March 2023
CONTENTS
06 10 12 13 14 15 16 18 20 21 22 23 24 26 27
Women: The Inspirational Cornerstones of the Future Linda Fisk Collaboration Announcement Annie Gibbins Woman in Space Shelli Brunswick Woman in STEM Elnaz Sarraf Woman in Thought Leadership Shara Evans Woman in Finance Amanda Thompson Woman in Fashion Carlie Victor Woman in Innovation Rhiannon Simcocks Woman in Media Rachel Reva Woman in Equality Jemimah Ashleigh Woman in Medicine Dr Ingrid Vasiliu Feltes Woman in Lifestyle Louise Fitzpatrick Woman in Diversity Marjorie Tenchavez Woman in Sport Allie Pepper
28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41
Woman in Consulting Tara Whitney Woman in New Business Bridie Mann Woman in Entrepreneurship Brenda Robinson Woman in Music Tania de Jong AM Woman in Publishing Jas Rawlinson Woman in Education Dr Ruby Bakshi Khurdi Woman in Community Honesty Liller Woman in Management Sally Foley-Lewis Woman in Story Telling Zoe Simmons Woman in Psychology Dee Tozer Woman in Art Joanne Colely Woman in Public Relations Annette Densham Woman in Health Care Dr Lara Shur Woman in Beauty Mary Gouganovski
Woman in Advocacy JL Keez WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 5
Women's Biz Magazine
Women:
The Inspirational Cornerstones of the Future
6 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
March 2023
Greatest lesson learned
B
elieve in yourself. As a woman in leadership, it is important to have confidence in your abilities and trust your instincts. Don’t be afraid to take risks and make decisions that you believe are right. And, a big part of believing in yourself is fully embracing your differences. To cultivate unstoppable self-confidence, recognize that those qualities and characteristics that other people may consider to be your flaws, actually hold the key to what makes you incredibly special. Sometimes, being flawed, and being very open and transparent about it, can be the most attractive trait of all. In fact, most people want to follow leaders that are brilliant, despite being human and having flaws. Too often, we are uncomfortable with what makes us different. But, it’s time to shift that mindset and begin parading those weaknesses, those flaws, those differences without shame. Ironically, it’s being imperfect that makes us real and relatable. We often connect with others
over our insecurities, quirks, and struggles. People who are truly interested in you and care about you, don’t expect you to be perfect; they want you to be authentic. Embracing your imperfections and letting others see the less than perfect parts of you, allows you to connect more deeply—to love others and be loved fully. Once we’re able to embrace our differences, we’re able to deeply believe in ourselves, our potential, and have confidence in our abilities - while fully trusting our instincts.
Why women need successful role models in business: We know that norms about women’s appropriate roles and leadership capabilities can shape both aspirations and opportunities. Women need successful role models in business to show them that they can achieve success in the business world. Role models can provide inspiration and motivation to women who may feel discouraged or overwhelmed by the challenges in a competitive work environment.
Seeing successful women in business can help to show that success is achievable. In fact, a lack of women in high-powered positions may affect perceptions of women’s ability to lead in certain industries and sectors. Without effective role models, both men and women alike are likely to question or doubt the ability for women to lead at the highest levels, which affects the ability for women to win elections. Importantly, research has shown that diversity matters because it brings a broad collection of experiences, perspectives, backgrounds, and viewpoints that lead to better decision making. And, when half the planet is female, having women in positions of influence in business is an obvious benefit to all enterprises – both large and small.
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Women's Biz Magazine
What does success mean to you? Success, abundance and prosperity can mean different things to different people. It is important that you have a clear understanding of what abundance means to you. For me, success is about personal growth and development, and having a sense of purpose and direction in life. Success is the feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction that comes from hard work and dedication. We may have the talent, ability, and expertise to achieve greatness, but without the determination, resilience and perseverance, success will be elusive. In every area of growth, from your education to your career to athletic training, it’s your level of mental toughness and determination that accurately predicts your level of achievement. Grit is a more reliable and accurate indicator of future success than any other determinant. Having grit is important because it becomes a driver of achievement and success – well beyond what skill and knowledge provide. If you are dedicated to achieving a clear long-term goal, and steadfast in your pursuit, undeterred by the sacrifices required, that is mental toughness and grit.
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How do you see the future of women in business for 2023 what does the world need more of? I see the future of women in business for 2023 as one of increased opportunity and success. Women will continue to break down barriers and make their mark in the business world. They will be more visible in leadership roles, and their voices will be heard in boardrooms and executive offices. I see a future of women in business for 2023 that is full of opportunity and growth.
Women will be more empowered than ever before, with more access to resources, education, and support. Women will be more visible in leadership roles, and will be more likely to be seen as pioneering and visionary leaders of our time. Women will embrace the toughness, the courage, the bravery, the resiliency and the
spirit that drives all of us forward. Women will be the backbone, the inspiration, the steel nerve and the vision that we all cling to, and are inspired by, everyday. Your incredible business and why it has made the significant impact it has LeadHERship Global has made a tremendous impact in the world by empowering and inspiring women to define their vision, grow their leadership, expand their influence and leave a lasting legacy. We help unleash the full potential of high-performing and growth-oriented leaders in a confidential, supportive and private community. We do that by harnessing the knowledge, influence and trust of high-performing women to stimulate idea exchange, support creativity, provide resources and tools and accelerate personal and professional growth. Women in leadership from all over the world have the opportunity to meet inspirational leaders, create lifelong friendships, and be surrounded by people that are invested in their success.
March 2023
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Women's Biz Magazine
Collaboration
Announcement Annie Gibbins
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n today's global business landscape, women are increasingly breaking through traditional barriers and making their mark in the corporate world. However, despite the progress that has been made, women continue to face challenges and obstacles, particularly when it comes to competition in the workplace. While some may argue that competition is necessary for success, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests collaboration is the key to achieving long-term success in business. The CEO of Women’s Biz Global Annie Gibbins and CEO of LeadHERship Global Linda Fisk joining forces as exclusive diamond partners clearly demonstrates collaboration is a powerful tool for women in business. 10 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
By working together, their combined network of 35,000 women can leverage their strengths and skills to achieve more than they could alone.
Collaboration fosters innovation and creativity, expands networks and opportunities, increases visibility and credibility, shares resources and reduces costs, and builds a positive workplace culture. In a global business environment that is constantly changing, collaboration can help
women stay competitive and achieve long-term success. These women are modelling how their shared leadership and brand elevation services are enhanced when we embrace collaboration and work together to achieve their goals. Collaboration allows women to leverage their strengths and skills together to achieve more than they could alone. By working together, they can share resources, knowledge, and expertise, and build a strong support network that can help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Here are five reasons why collaboration is more advantageous than competition for women in business.
March 2023
Collaboration fosters innovation and creativity In today's fast-paced business environment, innovation and creativity are essential for success. Collaboration can be a powerful tool for generating new ideas, insights, and perspectives. By bringing together women from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and skill sets, collaboration can spark creativity and innovation, leading to new products, services, and solutions that can help businesses stay competitive in a global market.
Collaboration expands networks and opportunities Collaborating with other women in business can expand networks and open up new opportunities. By building relationships with other successful women, women can gain access to new markets, customers, and
partnerships, which can help them grow their business and reach new heights of success. In addition, collaboration can provide opportunities for mentorship and professional development, as women can learn from each other's experiences and gain valuable insights into the industry.
Collaboration increases visibility and credibility Collaborating with other women in business can increase visibility and credibility in the industry. By working together, women can establish themselves as a part of a larger network, which can enhance their reputation and opportunities. This can be particularly useful for women who are just starting out in business or looking to break into new markets or industries.
Collaboration shares resources and reduces costs
Collaboration can be a powerful tool for sharing resources and reducing costs. By pooling resources together, women can achieve more with less, which is especially important for small businesses and startups. Collaborating can also help women to share costs and risks, making it easier to take on new projects or ventures that might otherwise be too costly or risky to pursue alone.
Collaboration builds a positive workplace culture Collaboration can also have a positive impact on workplace culture. By fostering a sense of teamwork, support, and community, collaboration can create a more positive and productive work environment. This can lead to increased motivation, job satisfaction, and employee retention, all of which are essential for longterm success in business.
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Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Space Shelli Brunswick
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helli Brunswick, COO of Space Foundation, brings a broad perspective and deep vision of the global space ecosystem — from a distinguished career as a space acquisition and program management leader and congressional liaison for the U.S. Air Force to her current role, including overseeing Center for Innovation and Education, Symposium 365, and Global Alliance.
Advocating for space technology innovation and entrepreneurship, Shelli collaborates with government, commercial and educational sectors on initiatives for space commerce, young professionals, teacher development, and space-inspired curriculum. 12 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
As a sought-after keynote speaker, Shelli regularly speaks at organisations and events around the globe to advance space technology innovation partnerships and collaboration, chairs the Women in Aerospace (WIA) Foundation, chairs Space Entrepreneurship at Tod’Aers, and hosts the Women’s Global Gathering annually at Space Symposium.
Shelli’s work to champion the inclusion of underserved groups stems from staying true to the values instilled while she was in the military: a passion to share her journey, give back to the space community, and contribute to the development of the nextgeneration workforce. As a leading role model for women in space, Brunswick was selected as the 2020 Diversity and Inclusion Officer and Role Model of the Year by WomenTech Network and a Woman of Influence by the Colorado Springs Business Journal.
In addition, she is one of only 35 women worldwide to be selected by the United Nations as a mentor for its Space4Women program and is a World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) senator for the United States of America. She is a founding advisory board member for NYU SPS Human Capital Analytics and Technology Program as well as a founding advisory board member for WomenTech Network. She sits on the board of directors for Manufacturer’s Edge and the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC.
March 2023
Woman in
STEM Elnaz Sarraf
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lnaz Sarraf is the CEO and founder of the award-winning ROYBI® Robot – the world’s first AI-powered smart toy to teach children language and STEM skills. It also has been named one of TIME Magazine’s Best Inventions in Education, on the 2019 CNBC Upstart 100 list as one of the world’s most promising startups, and Fast Company’s 2019 World-Changing Ideas. Elnaz is also a Board Member of the Consumer Technology Association, Small Business Council, and a member of Forbes Technology Council. Growing up as a woman in Iran, Elnaz witnessed limited opportunities, leading her on her journey in the U.S. to become an entrepreneur and create a technology that would empower children by providing universal access to personalized learning and an education that would prepare them for a better future. With 15 years of experience as a serial entrepreneur, Elnaz leads ROYBI (creator of ROYBI® Robot); an investor backed EdTech company that raised over $5 million in funding focusing on early childhood education and selfguided learning through artificial intelligence. Before starting ROYBI, Elnaz co-founded and led a consumer electronics/IoT company, iBaby, serving as the company's President.
As an immigrant and female founder, Elnaz has made worthy accomplishments in a short duration of living in the US. Honors include being selected as Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center Milestone Maker, named the Woman of Influence through Silicon Valley Business Journal, and Entrepreneur of The Year in Silicon Valley. She has been a speaker at several conferences, such as the Mobile World Congress, ASU GSV Summit, Consumer Technology Association, and more. WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 13
Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Thought Leadership Shara Evans
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hara Evans has been in the male dominated tech industry throughout her career - starting as a software engineer then head of program management deploying huge telco networks for carriers and government agencies, regional head of sales and marketing for a global telco vendor - and founded her first tech analyst firm in 1997 (which she sold to a publicly listed company) and has been running her own companies ever since then. Today, Shara is known as one of the world's Top 50 Female Futurists (per Forbes in March 2020) - one of only a few technology futurists on the list - and is a professional keynote speaker and regular media commentator. 14 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
She’s appeared on global and Australian broadcast TV many times including a recent USA science education documentary series that was nominated for 3x Emmy awards in 2021.
In 2022, Shara was named as one of the top Australian futurist speakers - one of very few women on this list. Shara was an early female technology pioneer and has been breaking down barriers her entire career. She’s encouraged many women (and men) to
enter technology related fields and has mentored many people about the exciting career paths in the science and technology sectors. As a world leading technology futurist keynote speaker - who happens to be a woman – Shara has the ability to influence the actions of C-suite execs in global corporations as well as educate a wide variety of audiences about how technology can be used in many different ways, and the importance of ethics, privacy and security in the development of products and services. And, as a cyber security expert also helps many people understand cyber risks and how to best protect themselves.
March 2023
Woman in
Finance Amanda Thompson
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s it stands, Financially Fit Women is the first ever financial education course developed specifically for women business owners in the Australian market. With Amanda’s expertise, the course was born from extensive research and consultation, including market research, situation analysis and consultation with clients and prospects to assess knowledge gaps. Course content was developed from Amanda’s expertise in business and finance in addition to collaborating with experts in other fields such as legal, marketing and mortgage broking to provide a holistic financial education offering. To make the course accessible to those who can benefit most, Financially Fit Women, offer a fully
sponsored position in each course to a woman who is not able to pay. This position is filled based on nominations from the business community. An ongoing membership community is available to participants who would like continued coaching and support, and all membership revenue will be donated to organisations working to support victims of domestic violence.
Above all, the Financially Fit Women program is grounded in a desire to create long-lasting social impact by contributing to: Women business owners paying themselves a proper wage, leading to financial freedom and independence
Women-led businesses being afforded opportunities to secure capital and resources, enabling them to grow Women-led businesses experiencing more growth, creating more jobs and having a positive economic impact Improved workforce participation.
The result of this, is less women dropping out of self-employment, by Financially Fit Women turning women business owners and entrepreneurs into astute CFOs with focus, direction, and a tailored game plan. WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 15
Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Fashion Carlie Victor
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arlie Victor is passionate about making a difference. She started Real Active in 2017 after a difficult time struggling with the loss of her beloved Nan. She had suffered from anxiety and depression for half her life and after such a difficult year, her anxiety was at an all-time high and mood at the lowest of lows. She started to dream of ways she could make a living doing what she is passionate about and help others suffering with their mental health too. And so, the seed of Real Active grew. Real Active is an activewear and accessories brand that make a difference by championing mental health awareness and donating 10% of all proceeds to mental health charities, such as Batyr and The Yoga Foundation. To date, she has raised over $21,000 for youth mental health, making a difference to the lives of 500 young people. Carlie has grown the business to a multiple-six figure business, with over 16,000 customers from 41 countries all over the world and an inspiring, passionate community (in other words, over 45k followers on social media!).
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March 2023
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Women's Biz Magazine
RHIANNON CONCEPTUALISED AND LED THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WORLD-FIRST; SUBSCRIPTION MODEL TO OWNING YOUR OWN FRANCHISE BUSINESS. RHIANNON IS THE CEO OF AUSTRALIAN HOME SERVICES FRANCHISE, JAMES HOME SERVICES AUSTRALIA. 18 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
Woman in
Innovation Rhiannon Simcocks
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he company has 30 years of history in the country but needed refreshing. Rhiannon has led the transformation of the network to rebuild its foundations and poise it for a future of exciting innovation. James Home Services Australia gives everyday Australian’s the opportunity to own their own business, live the dream of being their own boss, and meet their financial goals through their
own business. The worldfirst subscription model makes owning a business more affordable and more accessible than ever before. It takes what has traditionally been an upfront cost to purchase your business of anywhere between $25,000 - $45,000 to a manageable weekly payment that unlocks everything a new franchisee needs to get their business up and off the ground.
March 2023
James Home Services Australia is committed to developing business ownership and development skills in our franchisees. It is not enough to simply set someone up with a turnkey operation. James Home Services Australia provides extensive training in both doing the job, and running a business and our support and business coaching as the business develops genuinely creates a more skilful generation of business
owners in our country. The subscription model was developed after careful observation of the needs of the next generation of franchisees, accessibility, affordability and flexibility. Since implementation, with Rhiannon at the helm, they network has started more new franchisees than in the last 5 years combined, and the pipeline of franchisees working for the business establishment process, is larger than seen in the last decade in this business also.
The ultimate goal for the company is to unlock the possibility of business ownership to those who may have thought it would never be in reach.
As Rhiannon says, “It's a privilege to stand beside people as they step into business ownership”.
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Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Media Rachel Reva
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achel is a published author, radio host and founder of 'Life On Her Terms Media'. Rachel Reva has created a business designed to help women get visible, break through media gender gaps and increase their confidence in every level. As a former TV publicist, she is using her media skills to help change the landscape of the media by teaching women how to become their own publicists and change the airwaves for good and tell more empowering stories of women around the world. She also uses her PR skills to help vulnerable communities, as a board member of the LiveFree Project, she has helped the NFP increase their grant funding and attract national 20 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
media coverage. The motto of 'Life On Her Terms Media' is that if a little girl can see a woman's story, she will know anything is possible.
Our mission is to teach 1 million women around the world to become their own publicists and to change the media airwaves for good. Rachel clearly deserves this recognition, because she gave up the security of a good career and income, to start a business that would help women around
the world and has seen countless women land media coverage and share their story across local, national and media coverage. With utter determination, Rachel has created a program that has helped make media more accessible to women who never thought they were 'good enough' for the industry, or could afford an agency opportunity. As her business is solely dedicated to helping women land media coverage and get visible in the marketplace, Rachel is deserving of recognition as she dedicated her business to empowering women to change the media airwaves for good.
March 2023
Woman in
Equality
Jemimah Ashleigh
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n 2019, Jemimah read that 97% of female led startups fail in the first five years- twice the rate of men. Since then, Jemimah has made it her mission to level the playing fields. Specialising in giving women the right tools, at the right time, in the right order, Jemimah has helped
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over 600 women build incredible businesses and breakthrough media and publicity barriers. She has won multiple awards, a best-selling author and international keynote speaker. Jemimah champions women being seen, heard, and making incredible impact.
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Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Medicine Dr Ingrid Vasiliu Feltes
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ngrid is a deep-tech, healthcare and life sciences executive, who is highly dedicated to digital and ethics advocacy. In additional to her medical degree, she completed an Executive MBA in Healthcare Policy and Management, earning several postgraduate certifications from Harvard, MIT, Stanford including one in Bioethics from Harvard, as well as a National Institute of Health
Ethics Certification.
throughout her career.
She is a well-known futurist, globalist, digital strategist, passionate educator, and entrepreneurship ecosystem builder, known as a global thought leader for Precision Health, Blockchain, AI, Quantum Technology, Digital Twins, Smart Cities. She serves on the Board of numerous organizations and held several leadership roles in the corporate, academic, and not for profit arenas
She is the recipient of several global awards and serves as an Expert Advisor to the EU Blockchain Observatory Forum and a member of the Forbes Business Council. She continues to enjoy teaching Ethical Leadership, Innovation and Digital Transformation at the WBAF Business School and at the University of Miami Business School’s Executive MBA Program.
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March 2023
Woman in
Lifestyle Louise Fitzpatrick
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ouise Fitzpatrick (Lou) is changing the game when it comes to anxiety support! After coming out the other side of a 20-year battle with anxiety and a 4-year battle with depression, she realised there was something seriously missing in the Mental Health Support realm. Something that she so desperately needed in her hardest of times, but was not, and is still not readily available. And that is; a lived-experience approach to anxiety! Welcome to the world – The Anxiety Project, Confidence to Be™ & The getting Vulnerable Podcast where Lou now shares her journey to coming out the other side of her 20+ year battle with mental illness. Lou inspires, motivates,
mentors & provides hope for those who are struggling, and not getting long term results from traditional methods of therapy. She believes that TRUE connection is what’s missing. Connection that is built through vulnerability, relatability, and storytelling. Not a one-way textbook conversation, but a conversation where those who are struggling with anxiety, are fully and truly heard, & seen in a way that supports them in feeling less alone. She believes the real pandemic in the world is loneliness & disconnection, so is passionately dedicating her time, energy & resources to change this. Lou spent over a decade, and over $20,000k on different therapies searching for a way out of her anxious mental
battles but describes her experiences as one-size-fitsall-Band-Aid- “solution” with very little ‘long term’ relief.
She knows she is not the only one feeling this, and is sharing her approach to the world, small businesses, schools & communities to inspire change & reducing suicide through her work. *Lou advocates for traditional therapies, as she believes they all have their place in the healing journey, but for those that are not resonating with those therapies, this is where Lou’s work can be so life changing. WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 23
Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Diversity Marjorie Tenchavez
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orking with refugees and people seeking asylum for over a decade, Marjorie is a social justice practitioner with expertise in diversity, advocacy & capacity-building. Inspired to promote businesses run by refugees, Marjorie first created Welcome Merchant as an Instagram account, later developing an online directory and shop, as well as a community for business development, advocacy, and fundraising. Volunteer-powered for empowering refugees, Welcome Merchant provides free digital-marketing and upskilling support, revenuegenerating collaborations, and an important connection to the wider community. The ability for refugees and asylum-seekers to earn an income in Australia can be restricted by the conditions of their visa and disruption by relocation requirements with each visa renewal. These institutional barriers, along with cultural, language and accessibility obstacles prevent full and productive participation to work. Floods, fires, and pandemic turned 24 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
more businesses toward a digital presence to reach audiences through online shopping; however, many refugee and asylum-seeker entrepreneurs have limited access to, or understanding of digital marketing and can become invisible in the marketplace. Around 70% of the entrepreneurs we have featured have limited money to advertise, an online presence is a huge help and can have a profound impact. Alongside free digital marketing support, Marjorie partners with refugee chefs in delivering Curated Dining Events and sell gift hampers on behalf of refugee-led businesses. Delivering free skill-building
workshops also help refugee entrepreneurs scale-up their own businesses, generating the psychological boost, social status, and pride of being a business owner. Welcome Merchant exists to elevate businesses owned and led by refugees and people seeking asylum in Australia. This not only provides a financial stream but also the opportunity for these entrepreneurs to build connections.
Through events and social media, Welcome Merchant enables conversations with the broader community which promotes discourse and ultimately change perceptions of refugees and people seeking asylum.
Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Sport Allie Pepper
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his year Allie is taking on the biggest project of her life and it will change her life in return. Allie is to claim all of the worlds 8000m peaks without additional oxygen in 2 and a half years.
Not only is Allie raising the money for this project which is over $500,000 through brand partnerships but she is helping a team raise the funds to document it. Allie aims to show the world what women can achieve when they truly believe in and back themselves. Currently, Allie and her team are pitching 'Project Above the Clouds' to Netflix. Watch this space!
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March 2023
Woman in
Advocacy JL Keez
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fter enduring anorexia nervosa for 9 years, followed by chronic fatigue, debilitating migraines, depersonalisation, suicidal depression, OCD, and tremendous fear found JL, lining up the tablets. Her motivation to fight was her two children. Using walls to walk, against the odds, this mother persisted in sourcing answers. Meeting the person who asked that pivotal question, "tell me your story", was the turnaround moment JL so needed. By answering this questions, JL explored her life events and story which contributed to her downfall into mental illnesses which, up until this time, appeared to have no ‘out’. Exploring thought patterns, behaviours, emotions, and physical symptoms, provided a wealth of information to draw from. Clues found
her, dreams informed her, intuition grew in strength, and eventually, a story lined with the impact of sexual abuse, family betrayal, and lies delivered solutions. Recovery unfolded. Acquired knowledge born from the power of understanding now supports her life and business.
As an author, she portrays her crippling struggle and breakthrough. Her three books, magazine writing, and podcast roles are inspirational for all to learn from. Sheer and utter strength and determination, make her a powerhouse of guidance.
Her speaking ability transforms listeners and educates all those who cross her path. This award recognition, allows the opportunity for her message to be heard, so others may find their inner strength and empower their lives as she has done. When a story of heartbreak meets triumph and transcends into an empowering message of hope which is underpinned by workable foundations and frameworks, this is good news. This is the healing gift that JL now gives. Drawn from understanding her own experiences, she now nudges society to seek answers and solutions around why we hurt. JL's most significant discovery - relationships are key! A survivor, a leader and certainly a worthy recipient, of a Woman in Advocacy.
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Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Consulting Tara Whitney
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ara Whitney is founder of WA's largest and most successful grant writing business - securing over $95 million for clients in just 6 years. Whitney Consulting started as a sole trader in 2017 with no thoughts of expanding. Tara now has 8 staff and they have grown year on year.
January 2017. At that time, Tara was unable to continue in her State Government grants and business case assessment role, due to relocating 200km from Perth and, as there were no suitable jobs available to her in the small farming town of approximately 1,150 people, she decided to carve out a different path.
Tara’s police officer husband was relocated from Perth to a small, regional town in
Uncharacteristically, Tara wasn’t worried – she just knew she would make it
work. She decided to start her own business, writing grant applications, instead of assessing them. Whitney Consulting is now based in Perth and the Wheatbelt, as well as branching into Sydney. Whitney Consulting has four staff members in Perth, one in Beverley, two based in Pingelly and a new staff member in Sydney. Whitney Consulting has two full time employees, two part time and four casuals.
Whitney Consulting is 100% remotely and flexibly run. The company motto for employees is “A grant deadline is not negotiable, but neither is a child’s school assembly”, and to the team, both are extremely important, and they work as a team to make sure each staff member is able to achieve what they need to in work and life, together. And they love it!
28 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
March 2023
Woman in
New Business Bridie Mann
Bridie is an exemplary business leader. She has grown her business from a small local firm to a firm with reach across Melbourne.
S
he is constantly pushing the boundaries of what she and her team can achieve. She is a role model for aspiring business owners, always looking for opportunities to grow her business and provide better services to her clients.
Bridie is a true asset to the business world and a worthy recipient
of this award. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, focus on quality and client satisfaction, and her forward-thinking attitude are second to none. She demonstrates a passion for her field and a desire to do the best for her clients.
Bridie is a leader who deserves recognition for her hard work and dedication. Tradie Human Resources provides the tools required to create a workplace environment that results in personal and team goals being met, increased productivity, and increased understanding of the value of continuous improvement and its role in obtaining and maintaining industry compliance.
WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 29
Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Entrepreneurship Brenda Robinson
R ABOUT Brenda Robinson Brenda Robinson founder of ROBINSONS HONEY, winner of Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards 2022 and SMALL BUSINESS CHAMPION WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR for promoting the honey industry from hive to shelf. 30 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
obinsons Honey, is an Award Winning Local Australian Honey Health brand of products and confectionery company. Supplying the local Australian domestic market including independent grocery, green grocers, health stores, online and at community markets while successfully promoting their Australian quality honey and honey products to the export markets, is nothing short of amazing. With the power of branding, Robinsons Honey is quickly becoming a household name. Winning a global award for INNOVATIVE PRODUCT at SIAL SHANGHAI Food Expo in China was a major highlight for Brenda. Robinsons Honey evolved from a love for natural and local foods. When the grandchildren came along, they inspired Brenda to fulfil a niche market of healthier choices for their generation. Meshing her food journey and business journey into one vision; to deliver
quality award winning Australian local Honey and Honey products for future generations to enjoy, is a huge goal of the business. Brenda's business journey has taken her to amazing trade local and overseas trade mission locations.
To keep focused and maintain physical and mental well-being, Brenda aims to eat healthy, and enjoys stand up paddle boarding for exercise and relaxation. Being a business leader and having quality affordable products, Brenda sees Robinsons Honey, being a major part in the future growth of the honey and food industry.
March 2023
Woman in
Music Tania de Jong AM
T
ania de Jong AM is a trailblazing Australian soprano, global speaker, award-winning social entrepreneur, creative innovation catalyst, spiritual journey woman and storyteller. Tania is one of Australia’s most successful female entrepreneurs and innovators having developed 6 businesses and 4 charities.
When she was just 14 years old
her best friend told her not to bother having singing lessons. So it’s not surprising that her mission is to change the world, one voice at a time. Tania’s TED Talk ‘How singing together changes the brain’
has sparked international interest. Tania is a global authority on creativity, innovation and collaboration. With a grandmother who invented the foldable umbrella, innovation is in her blood. And, as the daughter of Holocaust survivors, she has learnt about resilience and re-invention and developed a passion for diversity and social inclusion.
TANIA IS AN AGENT FOR CHANGE. SHE IS AN INSPIRATIONAL AND MOVING STORYTELLER AND PRESENTER. HER KEYNOTES, COMBINED WITH THE POWER OF SONG, ARE TRANSFORMATIONAL. SHE IS KNOWN FOR HER ABILITY TO UNLEASH CREATIVE ENERGY AND CAPABILITIES, EXPAND MINDSETS, BUILD ‘CAN-DO’ TEAMS AND STRATEGIES TO DEVELOP A CULTURE OF INNOVATION, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION.
WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 31
Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Publishing Jas Rawlinson
A
s a child growing up in a home with family violence, Jas Rawlinson spent 10 years living in a void of depression, anxiety, and severe suicidality. After losing her dad to suicide at age 18 years old, and entering into a number of abusive relationships, she hit rock bottom, and it was here that she made a promise to one day find a way to support other survivors and victims of domestic violence. Today, Jas Rawlinson is an award-winning book coach, resilience speaker, and best-selling author, who empowers female changemakers to transform their stories into books that create global impact. She is also the best-selling author of four books, including the suicideprevention series ‘Reasons
32 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
to Live: One More Day, Every Day,’ and her internationally renowned 2023 release, ‘The Stories We Carry.’ Combining her love of storytelling with her creative writing and psychology degrees, she has helped over 30 trauma survivors and everyday people, write and publish their stories of triumph over adversity, and has been endorsed and supported by names such as Business Insider, news.com.au, Mindvalley, ABC, Lifeline, and America's National Center on Sexual Exploitation.
Often sought out for her empathetic leadership and unapologetic advocacy for stigmatized issues, such as domestic violence and
child abuse, Jas has worked with everyone from high-profile figures in the music industry, to human trafficking and sexual exploitation survivors, world champion athletes, entrepreneurs, and everyday people. Jas Rawlinson is a strong voice for women across the globe with difficult stories that the world needs to hear, and it is wonderful to see her recognised for her survivorfocused leadership in the publishing space, as both an author and a mentor for those on their own writing and publishing journey.
March 2023
Woman in
Education Dr Ruby Bakshi Khurdi
D
r. Ruby is an accomplished author of the book, "How to engage learners in a virtual Learning Environment". Dr Ruby launched her Online Learning Platform to help people across the world get knowledge & certification sitting in the comfort of their homes.
ABOUT Dr Ruby Bakshi Khurdi Dr Ruby Bakshi Khurdi is a highly acclaimed innovative Educator, TEDx Speaker & Trainer in Switzerland. She believes learning and teaching should be fun both for teachers and students!
Her teaching style proudly focuses on gamification. As a recipient of various awards for conducting engaging workshops in London, Bahrain, Amsterdam, India, Sweden, Nepal, China, Paris, Portugal and Prague, Dr Ruby firmly believes education and communication are strong pillars in developing a progressive nation! She launched her Online Learning Platform to help people across the world get knowledge and certification sitting in the comfort of their homes!
As an accomplished author, Dr Ruby Bakshi Khurdi published her 1st
Book “How to Engage Learners in a Virtual Learning Environment” in 2021. It was a blessing in disguise during COVID-19 when everyone was struggling with online classes. Dr Ruby's books offers practical tips for teachers & trainers for conducting engaging sessions on a virtual platform. Her teaching style focuses on gamification and practicing empathy which makes for a more engaged and inclusive atmosphere. Her programs use innovative methods like Lego techniques, Kahoot quizzes, storytelling, role playing & TEDEd exercises, which sets her apart from her contemporaries! Dr Ruby been invited to various countries for conducting highly engaging and interactive Educational Workshops on Emotional Intelligence. Bravo Dr Ruby!
WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 33
Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Community Honesty Liller
H
onesty Liller is a woman in recovery from a Substance Use Disorder since May 27, 2007 and a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist in VA. Honesty is the best-selling author of “Scattered Pink”and is the Chief Executive Officer of The McShin Foundation, a non-profit authentic peer-topeer Recovery Community Organization (RCO), that serves individuals and families with Substance Use Disorders.
She is the recipient of the Vernon Johnson Award given by Faces and 34 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
Voices of Recovery in 2015. Honesty was also featured on “Face The Nation”, FOX News, CNN, and PBS discussing addiction & recovery in America. In addition, she completed Stanford University’s Executive Program for Nonprofit Leaders. In 2019 she was honoured with the Jean C. Harris Community Service Board Award from Hanover County. WRIC – Channel 8 News did a feature about Honesty for the “Richmond’s Remarkable Women” special
in 2020. She has been a field reviewer for SAMHSA, Faces & Voices of Recovery, and CAPRSS. As a female entrepreneur, she cofounded CARE Talks, LLC. She is a board member of VSIAS, LAPPA, and Hanover CARES. Honesty is able to be a voice for those with addiction and their families through countless news articles, magazine stories, and TV interviews. To spend time with her husband, two children, and her two dogs is a gift that keeps giving!
March 2023
Woman in
Management Sally Foley-Lewis
M
iddle management is a noble role with enormous responsibility. Middle managers often get a bad rap. They carry a unique load and are often promoted into these positions because they’re high performing, but aren’t given the support and training needed to effectively manage their team. Feeling stuck or squashed, middle manager development is often neglected. Ironically, they’re uniquely positioned to make an organisation thrive because of their insights into the challenges and opportunities noted by their staff at the frontline. With over 20 years of developing leaders, Sally works with middle managers, team leaders in large corporations and associations nationally and internationally. Her expertise in middle management leadership focuses on developing this often-overlooked role.
According to AIM, survey participants said middle managers were falling short in many key areas, including leadership skills, communication, and people management - an important job function of middle management. This is where Sally’s thought leadership shines. Having worked her way from junior roles through middle management to a CEO role, Sally knows and understands the pitfalls and challenges of middle management. In Australia, Sally’s programs and books have no equal. Her unique focus is on middle
managers, developing their leadership skills, and professional development, which is highly specialised. Through Sally’s work, she speaks for industries across oil and gas, education, health, finance, and government. Proudly, Sally has spoken for Crown Leadership, Women in Leadership Summit, HRDQ-U, USQ Leadership Academy, PSAUK and UOB, to name a few. Sally has also worked with leaders from Microsoft, CSL Bearing (Prussia and Germany), multinational pharmaceutical, federal, state, and local government agencies, and national and commercial real estate organisations. Feedback from Sally’s programs reflects the impact she has: one recent example of achieving a 12x ROI on a middle manager program with Coca-Cola.
WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 35
Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Story Telling Zoe Simmons
Z
oe Simmons is an awardwinning journalist, copywriter, editor, author, speaker, and disability advocate who believes words can change the world. While battling with fibromyalgia, undiagnosed adenomyosis and complex mental illness, Zoe found traditional workplaces to be difficult to navigate—so, she started her own business, with a focus on making a difference in healthcare and disability spaces. She’s worked with organisations like Endometriosis Australia, the Youth Disability Advocacy Service, Uniting VicTas, Jean Hailes, Women’s Health Victoria, SANE, Women with Disabilities Australia, and the Liptember Foundation, 36 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
where she helped write Australia’s first-ever report into women’s mental health. Alongside her copywriting, Zoe’s work as a journalist, speaker and advocate highlights the discriminatory barriers disabled people face in business, and in the community, while re-shaping the tragic disabled narrative. Zoe candidly speaks about her experiences with invisible disabilities to raise awareness, smash stigma, create change, and help others to not feel so alone. Despite the fact that one in five Australians are disabled, disabled people are often excluded—and there’s a significant lack of representation, particularly in business and leadership spaces, that both causes and exasperates many issues for the disabled community.
Most recently, Zoe was a keynote speaker at the 2023 National Youth Disability Summit, where she spoke about medical gaslighting, healthcare inaccessibility, and the power of diagnosis. Zoe also works with numerous healthcare services, sharing her lived experience, including work with Eastern Health, and her role as a lived experience advisor at the Royal Children’s Hospital. Through her stories, Zoe often raises money for people in need. And in 2019, after watching her hometown burn and writing stories as a disabled journalist, Zoe helped raise $13k for bushfire survivors. Zoe wants to show you can still be a leader, be successful and make a difference… even when you’re in pain.
March 2023
Woman in
Psychology Dee Tozer
D
ee Tozer, an Australian psychologist and one of the world’s most successful couples master coaches that specialises in repairing marriages in crisis because of infidelity, compulsive behaviours, substance overuse, and hostile conflict.
Couples in business together make up the majority of Dee’s clients because these couples face specific challenges with so much at stake if they break up.
Not only the family is under threat, but often the business is also. With almost 35 years of experience in the field, a multi-published author with a 94 per cent success rate of over 5000 clients, Dee works with some of the world’s high-profile couples.
WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 37
Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Art Joanne Colely
J
oanne Colely is dedicated to her craft as a full-time professional artist, an International Stevie Award Winner and a cast member of the documentary ‘Project Manifest.’ Known throughout the South Pacific as ‘the art work’ to have in your home. Her astounding achievements since 2020 – 2022 are many and varied including painting the Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, plus many famous faces which include Dr Charlie Teo, Kelly Slater, Daniel Ricciardo and many others. More recently she has been asked to paint the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson. Her recent collaboration book “Transform Your Wounds To Wisdom” is now a 38 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
number 1 International Best Seller in Australia, the US, the UK, Germany and Canada where she tells her story of transformation through following her dream. She recently appeared on ‘This Is Your Life’ painting Alf Stewart from Home and Away. She also painted live on national Foxtel shows painting the hosts Fred Mafrica – host of ‘The Couch’ and Barbara McNaught – host ‘Hello Darlink’ among many others. Joanne was asked to paint Heath Ledger live at the International Optus sports Stadium alongside the band Thirsty Merc in Perth Australia. Painting these politicians and celebrities raised $200,000 for various charities across Australia.
JOANNE HAS ADDED HER ART TO MANY WALLS INCLUDING LANDSCAPES, ABSTRACTS AND LARGE RESIN PIECES WITH DIAMOND DUST AND SPLASHES OF GOLD. SHE HAD A POP UP GALLERY WITH AN INTERNATIONAL FASHION DESIGNER AND COLLABORATED CREATING THE ‘MCGOWAN’ A SUSTAINABLE WEARABLE ART, WHERE FASHION MEETS ART. ALSO COLLABORATING WITH INDIGENOUS ARTISTS WITH HER RESIN PIECES TELLING STORIES OF HEALING.
March 2023
Woman in
Public Relations Annette Densham
E
very day, Annette shares her 35 plus years experience as a journalist and writer with her community. Annette has dedicated her life to her profession. Starting journalism at 15 years of age and now 52, Annette has honed her knowledge, skill and expertise to help others get their voice heard. She is known for sharing far and wide, freely, and openly. As a big believer in a rising tide lifts all ships, Annette is 100% invested in helping other women shine and encouraging them to share their stories. These stories will change the world - but in Annette’s experience, she has found that women need permission to share them. That's where Annette comes in. As a child of the 70s, Annette was told 'children should be seen and not heard', and 'don't be a show off'. This stopped Annette from sharing her experiences and story. She felt frozen by judgement and negativity, so
now, Annette has chosen to show the world the real her.
As her courage and confidence grew, she now leads by example - showing women the power of sharing and how it unites us. Annette uses her skills as a journalist to empower and build other women, because with this combined strength and belief in ourselves, we change the world. We can't do that if we’re prisoners to imposter syndrome and our backgrounds.
herself special or extraordinary; she’s just embraced “her” flaws and all. Annette’s keynote speech on imposter syndrome, is all about showing other women that we do not have to be perfect to show up; we just have to be brave and bold. Now, Annette advocates and promotes women in business, encouraging them through PR and business awards, to step out into the light to share what they do and the difference they make. There is a powerful ripple effect of the work Annette does through publicity and writing, by drawing stories out of people that inspire and encourage others. Using all the tools available to Annette, she shares these stories, widening the net of possibilities of encouraging a faster path for societal change.
Annette doesn’t deem WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 39
Women's Biz Magazine
Woman in
Health Care Dr Lara Shur
B
eginning her career in Audiology in South Africa, Dr Lara Shur reached the position of Senior Audiologist & Speech Therapist at a large public hospital in Soweto. Her passion to achieve parity in ear health for disadvantaged children, coupled with a lack of services in WA available in remote regions, saw her co-found Earbus Foundation of Western Australia (EFWA) along with Teacher for the Deaf, Paul Higginbotham (EFWA CEO) and Nurse Audiometrist, Dee Parker (EFWA Aboriginal Ear Health Consultant) in 2013. Earbus Foundation is an innovative and agile not-for-profit working to reduce the incidence and impact of middle ear disease on Aboriginal and at-risk children. Dr Shur has an undergraduate degree in Speech & Hearing Therapy (Hons.); a Masters 40 | WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM
degree in Audiology; a Clinical Doctorate (Au.D) in Audiology; and a Graduate Certificate in Business Management. Lara holds the roles of Chief Operations Officer and Director of Clinical Services & Outcomes at Earbus Foundation. Lara was previously Manager of Clinical Support WA & NT for the Department of Health & Ageing’s Office of Hearing Services.
Her responsibilities included running the Newborn Hearing Screening Program in WA's private hospital sector as well as managing private audiology services and cochlear implant programs for children.
Also, before joining Earbus Foundation, Lara led the design brief and roll-out of regional mobile ear health programs in the Pilbara and Perth South Metro areas and managed the Perth East Metro and Bunbury programs for a large children’s health organisation. Lara is deserving of recognition this International Women’s Day for her single-minded belief that every child deserves access to primary health care, regardless of socio-economic background and remoteness of location – and her unwavering commitment to making that happen – as well as her dedication to ensuring Earbus Foundation’s programs are culturally safe for the children and families it serves.
March 2023
Woman in
Beauty Mary Gouganovski
Mary Grace the Brand was created and curated by Mary Gouganovski. After struggling with skin sensitivities for most of her life, founder Mary Gouganovski was inspired to create her own range of products that would work on all skin types, especially on the most delicate of skin.
Growing up in the family business allowed her to try a multitude of products and found that there wasn’t a single one she could wear without it causing pain or discomfort and decided something had to change. She strives to create beautiful, luxurious products without any of the allergy inducing or filler ingredients often found in other ranges, at an affordable price. She still works closely with her family, along with a team of staff to create the products you know and love.
MARY IS INVOLVED IN THE BRAND, EVERY STEP OF THE WAY, FROM THE INITIAL CONCEPT TO THE FORMULATION STAGE, THE GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PRODUCT CREATION. WOMENSBIZGLOBAL.COM | 41
