Forging connections for women in business

BALLARAT Business Women’s Group was formed in 2008 by its chair of now fourteen years, Margi Cousins.

She has a passion for the continued prosperity and business growth of this region, and said the fact the group continues to not only remain active, but thriving 16 years later, is a testament to all it offers to its members.

“Working in business development in Ballarat in 2008, I saw a need for women to find a comfortable forum to network and grow both personally and professionally and develop their business,” Margi said.

“Business development in the region at that time was overwhelmed by the ‘men in grey suits’.”

As a full-time working mother and now a grandmother, Margi values the opportunities where women can support and encourage one another knowing that they balance very full professional and personal lives.

What started out as lunch for 10 ladies has evolved to a business networking group of 406 subscribers and 112 members.

Ballarat Business Women run a series of monthly events that all women are welcome to attend. The monthly lunch series now hosts up to 50 attendees, there is a regular breakfast and social drinks is well subscribed on a Friday evening.

Members’ businesses are highlighted in the monthly Ballarat Business Women’s newsletter, and the group regularly offers business networking and opportunities for growth.

A registered not-for-profit organisation, Ballarat Business Women’s group focuses on developing two-way exchanges with members about their business needs.

This helps the board to understand the requirements of existing and potential members, and to offer opportunities for growth and business development.

The Ballarat Business Women’s Group facilitates networking and mentoring with like-minded women.

The board is comprised of volunteers that contribute their valuable time and expertise to ensure the organisation continues.

“We address issues that impact women in our community, with a focus on educating, developing, and empowering women to achieve both professionally and personally,” Margi said.

The Ballarat Business Women’s group is open to all women who own a business, or work in the Ballarat region, including women who have left the workforce but have the experience and desire to contribute.”

Margi is an experienced senior executive and board director with a demonstrated talent in building and leading high-performing teams.

She is an engaging leader with the ability to influence and offer strategic direction, combined with a practical, hands-on approach. She has worked in government policy and advocacy and has expertise as a business consultant and careers advisor.

Margi graduated with a bachelor degree and post-graduate qualifications from the University of Queensland and Federation University.

She has two adult daughters that have made Ballarat their home and the place to raise their sons.

“Both my girls hold senior professional positions in Ballarat and are young women to be reckoned with,” she said.

To find out more visit ballaratbusinesswomen.net.au.