The Wheatbelt Business Network 2017 WE Connect program was an exceptionally successful program for female entrepreneurs across the wheatbelt.
“The WE Connect program represented a huge turning point in my business,” said participant De-anne Strange who runs the photography and fine art business Strange Images from her farm near Bruce Rock. “My mentor gave me business skills and knowledge that at the time I didn’t even know I needed and my business has grown immensely as a result.”
De-Anne spoke to her mentor face to face or by phone once a month over a five month period. “My mentor gave me direction, clarity and invaluable assistance in growing my business,” De-anne explains. De-anne’s mentor Shannon Bush of Creative Possibility helped De-anne with all elements of her business, including promotion through social media platforms.
“Shannon was invaluable as she was an impartial and non-judgemental business person who I could bounce ideas off. I also loved getting together with all of the participants for a lunch at the end of the program as this was a great opportunity to form some great connections with a range of other business people,” De-anne said.
Bankwest Moora Relationship Manager Millie Milligan mentored Tara Whitney of Whitney Consulting through the 2017 WE Connect program.
Millie comments from home in Moora that, “the best thing about the WE Connect program is that it enables people to flourish.” “The program was also a great personal development opportunity as I was able to use my leadership skills to empower the person I worked with in coming up with her own solutions.” As Millie and Tara were located at opposite ends of the wheatbelt, they spoke once a month over the phone at mutually convenient times.
There were some interesting other positives that came out of the 2017 WE Connect program for Millie as a mentor. “Since the conclusion of the program Tara and I have both gained from being part of each other’s network,” Millie remarks, adding that, “overall the program benefitted me personally and broadened my professional network, with the wind up at the end of the program also a great way to expand my business network across the wider wheatbelt.”
Applications for the 2018 WE Connect program close soon.