A two-day celebration of women’s leadership and achievements
The Women Economic Forum (WEF) Australia 2024, held at the renowned Pullman Hotel in Albert Park, Melbourne from 20-21 September, concluded with a powerful message of unity, empowerment and celebration of women’s leadership. Over the course of two days, this transformative event brought together a dynamic community of global leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers and innovators to discuss, collaborate and inspire action toward a more inclusive and equitable world.
The forum, provided a unique platform for women across industries to exchange ideas, share success stories and explore solutions to the economic and social challenges women face today. Featuring keynote speeches from Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo, Hon. Ann-Marie Hermans MP, and Hon Kim O’Keeffe MP and to name but a few; panel discussions; workshops and networking sessions, WEF Australia 2024 not only spotlighted the contributions of women leaders but also advanced the dialogue on driving systemic change.
Day One: Conversations on leadership, innovation, women empowerment and economic growth
The first day of the forum set the tone with an opening speech from Dr. Sarifa Alonto Younes, president of Women Economic Forum – Australia 2024 who is a renowned global advocate for women and girls’ education, empowerment and leadership. She emphasised the role of women as more than just participants but leaders and key drivers of economic growth, societal progress and innovation.
Keynote address from Hon. Kim O’Keeffe, Member of Parliament of Shepparton showed how her passion for community propelled her into public service, where she served as Mayor of Greater Shepparton City Council and was later elected to the Victorian State Parliament in 2022. She shared her journey as an entrepreneur and her pathways into politics, encouraging women to consider leadership opportunities and lead with purpose, passion and Compassion.
Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo of the Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne joined the event. Her decades of dedicated service in the Philippine Foreign Service made a tremendous impact, from supporting migrant workers to implementing transformative initiatives at the Department of Foreign Affairs. Her leadership and advocacy have empowered women and shaped policies that continue to make a lasting difference.
Another powerful advocate for education, social work and community service, Hon. Ann-Marie Hermans spoke during the event. As a leader, educator and passionate Victorian, she embodies dedication to building a better future for all.
The initial panel discussions on women’s leadership, moderated by Bianca Stawiarski, sparked a thought-provoking dialogue. Panelists Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo, Hon. Ann-Marie Hermans-MP, Hon. Kim O’Keeffe-MP and Cathy Dimarchos delved into key topics such as leadership, their most significant career lessons, and the influential figures who paved the way for them. They reflected on the pivotal women in their lives who inspired their journeys. A particularly moving moment came from the Consul General Salcedo who shared how the inspiration and support of her grandmother have been instrumental in shaping her path.
Speakers and panels throughout the day addressed critical issues such as:
- Developing a global mindset: This involves understanding and appreciating diverse perspectives and cultures. Reflecting on how developing a global mindset can enhance personal growth and adaptability skills.
- Empowering women in the current landscape: Addressing various social, economic and political challenges while leveraging opportunities for growth and equality.
- Role of women in sustainable development: Highlighting the role of women in promoting social innovation, the importance of education, community engagement, health and wellbeing, economic contribution, etc.
- The power of collaboration: Women supporting women
- Cross-cultural leadership
- Women and philanthropy: The importance and power of giving back to the community
- Women in technology and innovation: Highlighting the achievements of women breaking barriers in STEM and the digital economy
- Women in finance: Investing in the future. Discussing strategies to enhance women’s access to capital, financial literacy and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Attendees were inspired by success stories and insights shared by leading women executives, government officials, founders and activists, illustrating the tangible impact of female leadership on businesses, communities, and economies.
Day Two: Building inclusive ecosystems and global networks
Day 2 of the forum expanded on these themes, focusing on creating ecosystems that support women’s personal and professional growth. Activities on the day included panel discussions, inspiring messages and another day of wonderful networking.
One of the key panel discussions, moderated by Catherine Molloy, centred on “Economic Employment: Women Driving Global Prosperity.” The panel featured distinguished experts, including Alice Nicolas from The Philippine Times Australia, Dr. Mary Jane Alvero Al Mahdi from Prime Group in Dubai and Dr. Brenda Jamnik.
The discussion explored how women are vital contributors to economic growth and global prosperity. Panelists shared insights into the challenges women face in the workforce, including barriers to advancement and pay equity. They also highlighted successful initiatives that empower women in various sectors, emphasising the importance of networking and access to education.
The panel underscored the collective responsibility to foster an environment where women can thrive, driving not only their own success but also contributing to the overall prosperity of communities and nations.
Some of the topics during the day:
- Building resilience: Thriving in the face of adversity
- The future of work and women’s leadership: Addressing how the evolving workplace, including flexible working models and digital transformation, can better accommodate and empower women.
- Storytelling as a tool for business success: Sharing stories can inspire action and transform lives.
- Addressing the gender gap pay: Raising awareness through campaigns and research can mobilise public support and pressure organisations to take action
- Global collaboration for women’s empowerment: Encouraging cross-border partnerships and networks to amplify the reach and impact of women-led initiatives
- Breaking barriers in business and society: A discussion on dismantling systemic barriers that hinder women’s advancement, including bias, discrimination and lack of support structures
Throughout the event, participants engaged in interactive workshops, panel discussions, keynotes and speeches designed to foster skill-building, mentoring and peer collaboration. These sessions emphasised the importance of collective action, mentorship and sustainable leadership for women to thrive in their fields.
Gala dinner and awards night: Celebrating excellence
The forum culminated in the highly-anticipated gala dinner and awards night, a glittering evening that recognised and celebrated the extraordinary achievements of women across industries. The awards night honoured women who have not only excelled in their professional domains but have also contributed to creating more inclusive, diverse and sustainable spaces for others.
WEF Awards are presented in celebration of inspiring women and men worldwide across all walks of life, including business, entrepreneurship, politics, public life, government, community service, arts, culture, sciences, technology, spirituality, innovation, writing, research and others. By honouring goodness and excellence across all strata, we encourage and empower greater leadership, enterprise and collective consciousness toward creating a better world for All.
Award highlights
Legendary Woman of the Decade
This is the WEF highest award conferred on most distinguished women and leaders in different spheres worldwide notably in public life and leadership with legendary impact and influence. Presented to:
- Dr. Mary Jane Alvero Al Mahdi – CEO of Prime Group in Dubai, for her legendary impact and influence to the corporate world.
Leaders of the Decade
This is also the WEF highest award conferred on most distinguished leaders in different spheres worldwide notably in public life and leadership with legendary impact and influence.
The award is presented to the following distinguished women:
- Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo
- Hon. Ann-Marie Hermans MP
- Hon. Kim O’Keeffe MP
- Peace Mitchell
- Katy Garner
- Melba Marginson
Women of the Decade
This award is for women/ leaders who are pioneers and leaders in their respective entrepreneurial and professional endeavours, with a distinctive voice and vision that are inspiring and innovating a new narrative of leadership in all walks of life. It is for those whose expertise and spirit can inspire and inform the next wave of a more awakened and empowered leadership.
- Karen Weaver
- Dr Angelina Achariya
- Dr Diah Yusuf
- Carol Hanlon
Young Innovators Creating a Better World for All
This award honours inspiring research, design, inventions and innovations stemming from scientific temperament and entrepreneurial spirit. It celebrates personal leadership that helps address and impact the societal challenges of our times with sustainable solutions and innovations. The age profile is around 14-25 years.
- Daisy Wu
- Dania Alonto Younes
Iconic Women Creating a Better World for All
This award is for upcoming leaders who with their entrepreneurial spirit and creative actions and attitudes are bringing in the much-needed soft power to bring cultures and countries closer in friendship and exchange. It is for those who are making a difference and participating in co-creation.
- Ailsa Page
- Amanda Thompson
- Ann M. Coo
- Bianca Stawiarski
- Caroline Bellenger
- Catherine Molloy
- Cathy Dimarchos
- Dr Brenda Jamnik
- Dr Haidi Badawi
- Elle Likopoulos
- Fiona Luth
- Ginni Kocher
- Jen Harwood
- Linh Le
- Lorilee Montajes
- Michelle Gardiner
- Poornima L Nathan
- Raquel Manning
- Robyn Baker
Exceptional Women of Excellence
This award is for women who are pioneers and leaders in their respective entrepreneurial and professional endeavours, with a distinctive voice and vision that are inspiring and innovating a new narrative of leadership in all walks of life. It is for those whose expertise and spirit can inspire and inform the next wave of a more awakened and empowered leadership
- Aidah M. Ismail
- Alice Nicolas
- Aloyna Taylo
- Andrea Putting
- Arlene Lucas
- Carole Goodman
- Christina Chia
- Dr. Heena Sinha
- Dr. Marina Carew
- Dr. Simone Boer
- Gita Venkat
- Kabinga Mazaba
- Karen Foote
- Kari Sutton
- Karthika Sivarajan
- Kate Fisher
- Katrina Wurm
- Khatija Halabi
- Leigh-Anne Sharland
- Louise Agnew
- Mabble Munyimani
- Maggie Ebbinghaus
- Manuela Andrew
- Mariam El Houli
- Meybell Cristina
- Michele Hartz
- Nadia Messiha-Kamil
- Payal Mistry
- Robyn Vogels
- Ruqya Khan
- Sabriya Kamareddine
- Shweta Goyal
- Tammie Horton
- Tracey Horton
The women honoured during the gala dinner and awards night have not only succeeded individually, but they have also paved the way for future generations,” said Dr. Younes, Chairperson of WEF Australia. Their resilience, innovation, and leadership embody the spirit of WEF and the progress we are making toward gender equity.
A collective call to action
WEF Australia 2024 was not only a celebration of women’s achievements but also a powerful call to action for gender equity and economic empowerment. The forum’s discussions highlighted the need for policies, partnerships and practices that create more equitable opportunities for women, particularly in leadership roles.
Over the two days, WEF reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment through networking, mentorship and collaboration. Participants left with renewed energy and a shared determination to continue working toward a future where women can thrive equally in all sectors of society. Thus, as result we have agreed to host another Women Economic Forum in November 2025.
About the Women Economic Forum
Women Economic Forum (WEF) is a global conference platform brought by the ALL Ladies League (ALL) to foster empowering conversations, connections and collaborations among women committed to contribute in ALL walks of life through enterprise, innovation, leadership, vision and voice. WEF Awards are presented in celebration of inspiring women and men worldwide across all walks of life, including business, entrepreneurship, politics, public life, government, community service, arts, culture, sciences, technology, spirituality, innovation, writing, research and others. By honouring goodness and excellence across all strata, we encourage and empower greater leadership, enterprise and collective consciousness toward creating a better world for All.
For more information, visit wef-australia.com.
