EmpowHer Club Leadership: Breaking Barriers, Building Success

This initiative, championed by Sharon Styman and Ragina Rogers, marked a significant step towards creating equitable pathways for women in leadership roles.

The forum was born from a shared vision: to normalise equity within the club industry and provide tangible career opportunities for women. Through mentorship, networking, and skill-building, the program aimed to inspire participants to embrace leadership with courage and authenticity.

The event featured an impressive line-up of influential voices:

• Sharon Styman – Deputy Chair of Twin Towns Clubs and Resorts, Leadership Architect, and advocate for breaking new ground for women.
• Ragina Rogers – CEO of the Australian Indigenous Governance Institute and Director at Twin Towns, who led the Acknowledgement of Country, reminding us of the importance of honouring traditional owners.
• Rebecca Riant – CEO of ClubsNSW, who delivered a powerful message on the value of listening: sometimes, great leaders know when to step back and let others speak.
• Sallianne Faulkner – Chair of ClubsNSW and General Manager of Bayside Women’s Shelter, who encouraged boldness: “Put your foot in the door that’s even slightly ajar.”
• Sharon Arrow – CEO of Club Mudgee, inspiring attendees to continuously improve and uplift others.
• Kimberley Malcolm – General Manager of Member Experience at AHA (Vic), who reframed networking as a way to “fill your cup” with meaningful connections.
• Mayor Sharon Cadwallader – Mayor of Ballina Shire, who reminded us that growth often comes from being “comfortable with the uncomfortable.”
• Dr Jacqui Wilson – GP and women’s health advocate, who addressed menopause and urged women to act despite fear.

Key Takeaways

The sessions were rich with insights and practical advice:

1. Acknowledgement and Empowerment
   Respect for culture and heritage sets the tone for inclusive leadership.
2. Leadership Essentials
   Confidence grows through action—start small, but start boldly.
3. The Power of Listening
   Silence can be a strategic tool for effective leadership.
4. Networking and Mentorship
   Build relationships that energise and support your journey.
5. Women’s Health and Wellbeing
   Addressing health challenges openly is vital for sustained leadership.
6. Action Planning
   Participants left with personal strategies to advance their leadership goals.

A Call to Action

The forum closed with a quote from Nelson Mandela:
“May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears.”

This sentiment perfectly captured the spirit of the day—a chorus of voices united to create a future where women lead with confidence, courage, and impact.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Sharon Styman, Ragina Rogers for championing this initiative, and to the men and women, both present and working quietly in the background, whose commitment helped bring this initiative to life. It is through shared purpose and collaboration that we achieve meaningful progress.