The FCA Women In Franchising committee have been very busy this year, and are dedicated to helping raise awareness of Women In Franchising, and to support, promote, and celebrate the success of women - both within the franchise sector as well as the broader Australian business community.
National FCA conference in Cairns
In an exciting start to the year, there was a strong representation of women at the National FCA conference in Cairns in May. This included a powerful, open, and honest Women In Franchising sponsored panel discussion on 'Exploring and Adapting to the Challenges in Franchising, 2024 and Beyond'. This panel was facilitated by Vanessa Wilmot (Managing Director of Geotech Information Services, and Chairperson for the FCA Women In Franchising in Australia), and panellists Elise Gillespie (Joint CEO, Bakers Delight) and Kellie Cranch (Head of Development, City Cave).
Everyone was moved by the insights and openness of this panel discussion, which showed that everyone has their challenges and that we are all human, it is how we deal with these challenges that is important. A key takeout was that we are stronger when we share, are open about, and face challenges together, and that franchising is a great system to support this. The panel touched on challenges that are not only specific to women, but to everyone in franchising and business.
Lunch and Learn, June 2024
Next, Women In Franchising sponsored a Lunch and Learn in June, which was hosted by Geotech Information Services, and touched on the challenges faced by franchises in the current environment, and in particular on the Women In Franchising community. A key insight was that every brand is different and will have their own unique set of challenges in the current economic environment, however what is most important is being on top of any changes and emerging trends and how they are impacting on your business. This Lunch and Learn was also an opportunity to raise awareness about Women In Franchising and the upcoming events.
The FCA Women In Franchising committee provides genuine opportunities and initiatives for contribution, networking, and professional development for the franchise sector and beyond. Part of this is by holding events, that are not only relevant to women, but to anyone and we encourage all to attend and support Women In Franchising. The Women In Franchising committee held 3 successful sell out events this year.
Women in Franchise event in Brisbane
The first was in Queensland in July, which featured 2 powerful women Olympians as guest speakers, Bridgette Louise Star and Brooke Hanson. Both shared personal stories of struggles and triumphs, and the pressure and expectations from being elite athletes.
There were many insights and key takeouts from these amazing Olympians. As part of the event, the Women In Franchising committee supported and raised significant funds for the 'Friends with Dignity' charity.
Women in Franchise event in Victoria
Women in Franchising in Victoria held an event in July, which had special keynote speaker Diana Williams (CEO / Founder Fernwood Fitness) share her story on how since 1989 she lead the change of the health and fitness landscape for Australian women forever. From one small club, Diana grew Fernwood Fitness into the powerhouse it is today, now featuring over 70 clubs nationwide.
This was followed by an open and authentic panel discussion facilitated by Vanessa Wilmot, with panellists Diana Williams, Kate Hopley (Franchising Manager, Schnitz) and Jenny Boymal (Client Engagement Partner, The Proven Group) discussing the topic which is very relevant to women 'Empowerment in the Workplace - Today's Leaders and Leaders of the Future'. All attendees walked away with not only a goodie bag, but with insights and feeling inspired and empowered. The event was in support of and raised significant funds for the 'RizeUp Australia' charity.
Women in Franchise event in NSW
In August, Women In Franchising in NSW held an afternoon tea where the topic was 'Learn with me, Learn from me'. The panel discussion was facilitated by Racha Abboud (Partner, Baybridge Lawyers) and included panellists Therese Frangie (CEO, Mad Mex), April Harwood (Chief Sales Officer, JAX Tyres & Auto), and Emily Lucas (Senior Associate, HWL Ebsworth Lawyers).
The panellists were open and genuine, and helped lift the lid on challenges women face in the workforce, and how women (and men) can help learn from and support each other. The panel shared the good and the bad aspects of their experiences as women in the franchising world.
Looking forward to Women in Franchising events in 2025
This is just a snapshot of what Women In Franchising have been doing this year, but it is more than just running events. Women In Franchising are creating a community that not only supports women, but the whole franchise community, so the Women In Franchising committee encourage everyone to get involved and to support where you can.
The Women In Franchising committee are currently planning for 2025, including exciting state based events and for the national conference. Stay tuned on this and other important updates from the Women In Franchising committee.
We thank the FCA and the support of Women In Franchising, and encourage you all to get involved to make a difference.