Byron's Badass Women of Business

🌟 Calling all Byron's Badass Women of Business! 🌟

Join us on International Women’s Day 2024 at the Byron Theatre's front veranda bar for a networking event like no other. Hear from remarkable women who are shaping Byron's business landscape. Share stories, exchange insights, and seek guidance in our supportive environment.

The Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce will bring together an engaging panel with inspirational women who have been paving the way in their respective industries:

🎬 J'aimee Skippon-Volke - Festival Director of the Byron Bay International Film Festival

J'aimee Skippon-Volke, Byron International Film Festival Director, is a trailblazer in the film industry and the NSW Northern Rivers region. With a background in UK TV production, she's known for her cutting-edge curation, including immersive VR experiences. As the founder of Collective Reality, a VR Production Company, she collaborates with top talent to enhance human experiences through VR/MR technology.J'aimee's global impact includes showcasing at Cannes Film Festival and advocating for social issues like Marriage Equality and mental health through film screenings. She's a passionate advocate for gender diversity in film, championing female-driven storytelling. Through her work, J'aimee is reshaping the industry and providing platforms for underrepresented voices.

🍼 Evie Wood - President and Co-Founder of Coolamon Community

Evie is the president and co-founder of Coolamon Community, a registered charity based on the Northern Rivers. Commencing operations in 2022, Coolamon Community has supported over 750 local Indigenous mothers and babies to receive culturally-safe healthcare through the gift of the Coolamon Crib. Each Coolamon Crib gives an Indigenous mum everything she needs to care for her baby up until 6 weeks of age and is provided through culturally safe Aboriginal Healthcare Services. The Coolamon Crib has a retail value of over $1000 which means that Coolamon Community has re-directed in excess of three quarters of a million dollars of goods back to community in just 2 years. Evie is an academic at Southern Cross University, Gnibi College of Indigenous Australian Peoples, lecturing in Indigenous Human Rights and commencing a PhD within the area that Coolamon Community operates. Her goal is to improve the wellbeing of those in community, specifically empowering and honouring the unique Aboriginal Mothering experience, one mother at a time.

🧭 Annie O'Rourke -  Founder and Chief Creative Officer of 89 Degrees East

Annie is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of 89 Degrees East, a role she loves because “it allows me everyday to work alongside some of the brightest, creative and connected individuals in the country”.
Through her 30 years of experience in strategic communications, media and public relations, Annie is well respected throughout government, political and private sectors. She’s been a Senior Advisor to a Prime Minister, the founding CEO of Media Team Australia, and has directed major Federal Government campaigns.
She is passionate about how technology can contribute to social policy outcomes and makes the world a better place. In Byron Bay, Annie loves doing the Lighthouse walk and is a keen ocean swimmer.

🦈 Sarah Beardmore - Co-Founder of Dorsal​​

Sarah Beardsmore, a dynamic entrepreneur and former professional surfer, brings a wealth of experience from over 9 years on the World Surf League star tour. As the cofounder of Dorsal Shark Reports & Alerts, she revolutionized ocean safety, cultivating a community of over half a million users across four regions with innovative technology and $0 marketing spend. Sarah's diverse projects, including leading a crowdfunding campaign that exceeded its goal by over AUD$135k, highlight her entrepreneurial spirit. With a background in start-ups and technology gained from her time in San Francisco, she now serves as a customer success manager for The Surfboard Warehouse. Based in Byron Bay, Sarah continues to pursue her passion for surfing while making waves in the tech world with projects like Nown, empowering users to create interactive maps easily. With her relentless drive for growth and innovation, Sarah embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and adventure, inspiring others to chase their dreams.

💰Donna Kildea - Chief Operating Officer of Summerland Bank

Donna Kildea is the Chief Operating Officer at Summerland Bank, where she has served since 1999, initially joining as a Director before assuming the role of COO in 2003.
Throughout her tenure, Donna has been a driving force behind Summerland's success, fostering a thriving work culture and demonstrating a strong commitment to talent development.
Under Donna's leadership, Summerland achieved B Corp certification, reflecting her dedication to sustainability and social responsibility.
In her role, she oversees critical functions including compliance, human resources, property management, and governance, ensuring operational efficiency and legal compliance.
Donna's impact extends beyond her operational responsibilities; she is also a mentor, empowering employees to excel in their roles. Her multifaceted contributions exemplify her profound influence on Summerland's ongoing success.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event promises an enriching experience where connections are forged, ideas sparked, and inspiration thrives.

Date: Friday 8th March 

Time: 5.30pm - 7pm 

Location: Byron Theatre's Veranda Bar

Plus, after the event don't miss 'Byron's Badass Women of Song' presented by Byron Theatre and Great Southern Nights. Purchase a ticket to our networking event and receive 20% off this electrifying gig. Prepare for an unforgettable night as local women take the stage with killer bands. 

Secure your spot now and let's celebrate International Women’s Day together!