Maryanne Harris – founder and director at RoboFit, Australia's first robot-powered therapy centre – will be the speaker at 2023's final Be Inspired networking night at Bulli's Timbermill Studios on November 16.
The Be Inspired event series, founded by Humanly Consulting's Ronelle Pratt, aims to unite and empower local women.
"I wanted to create a space to bring women together to connect, to share their stories, and to build each other up," Ronelle says.
It began with a simple yet powerful idea: bringing women together to enjoy good food, wine and conversation. Now Be Inspired has grown from a quarterly event into a thriving community of local women.
"I see it as a real success that there are a core group of people who come back every time, as well as a large proportion of new people who connect in each time," Ronelle says, highlighting the community's inclusivity and welcoming atmosphere.
Be Inspired nights are informal and intimate, featuring guest speakers who share their stories and passions. Stories can expand our minds, spark ideas and forge connections, Ronelle believes.
"When we share our passions, interests and experiences through stories, we learn and grow through our emotive connection with others," she says.
Be Inspired encourages women to be their authentic selves, with Ronelle recognising that imposter syndrome and self-doubt are common challenges for many women.
Ronelle knows the challenge of rediscovering your professional worth after being a stay-at-home mum and urges women to "show up and be real" regardless of the season of life they are in.
"I have been personally encouraged by many women I've met who have made courageous decisions to try something new," she says.
"You might think your story is ordinary, but there is always passion, courage and joy to be found in the ordinary, and your story may just be what someone else needs to hear to encourage them, to lift them up."
In addition to her work with Be Inspired, Ronelle is a wife and mother of three, a surfer and beach lover, and an advocate for self-awareness and leadership development. Through her business, Humanly Consulting, she works with leaders and organisations to help them understand their workplace culture and achieve their goals.
Ronelle believes women are wired for connection and seeking meaningful interactions. She wants her Be Inspired events to meet this need.
To buy tickets to the November Be Inspired event, click here.
