Message by Kim O’Keeffe, Member for Shepparton District
WHEN I see so many incredible women in business in our region, I’m reminded of the strength, resilience, and determination that drives them. Whether they’re starting a new business or leading an established one, these women are making a significant impact in our communities.
In my own journey of running my own business for 28 years, I saw firsthand the challenges and rewards that come with running a business, and during that time, I was fortunate to be surrounded by supportive women and a community who helped my business thrive.
Being a woman in business is about more than just achieving personal success, it’s also about creating opportunities for others, sharing knowledge, and being part of a network that uplifts, inspires and empowers. I’ve always believed in the importance of mentorship and giving support wherever I can, and I’ve seen the difference it can make. When women come together to support one another, incredible things happen, and being a part of someone else’s journey to success is the greatest success of all.
My own journey has shown myself and others, that hard work, passion and the right support can take your business to new heights, and for me that was on a national scale and something I was proud to achieve.
It has always been incredibly important to me to share the success of our local businesses, and the opportunities that exist in regional Victoria, something that needs to be acknowledged, supported and celebrated. My aspiration has always been to champion for regional communities, put a spotlight on the incredible successful region that we are, and you never know who is watching and what investment that may attract. This is something that I will continue to do regardless of my position.
So, to all the women in business, I want to say this: Keep believing in yourself and your vision. Don’t be afraid to take risks, to innovate and to lead. And remember, you’re not alone on this journey. There’s a whole community ready to support you, cheer you on, and celebrate your successes.
