Renowned businessperson, entrepreneur, podcaster, blogger and Australian ‘shark’, Naomi Simson, is ready to share her experiences as the keynote speaker at Camden Council’s International Women’s Day Gala on Wednesday 8 March, 5.30-9pm, at Gledswood Homestead and Winery.

Ms Simson said she was excited to attend the event that will celebrate local women’s achievements, raise awareness of women’s equality, contribute to the gender parity journey and raise funds for a local charity.  

“I’m really looking forward to sharing my thoughts, experience and insights on leadership for Camden Council,” she said.

“It will be a thought provoking yet entertaining session calling on my variety of business experiences including my time on Shark Tank.”

Mayor of Camden Therese Fedeli said this year’s theme, #EmbraceEquity, put the spotlight on gender equity in all facets of society and, in particular, within our own sphere of influence.

“We all know being included and having a sense of belonging feels good and is so important to our sense of self. As a woman myself – a mother, a grandmother, an aunty, a friend – this is something I want for all the people close to me. I want them to feel they can be, do and achieve whatever they want – free from the constraints of gender stereotypes, discrimination and bias,” Cr Fedeli said.

“It’s amazing to be part of an organisation, and a community by extension, that celebrates its fantastic women. I am so proud to work with six female Councillors along with three female directors to help create a world where difference is valued and celebrated and to forge women’s equality.”

Local organisation, Big Yellow Umbrella, has been selected as the Gala’s main beneficiary, following Camden Council’s recent expression of interest process, which invited local charities and not-for-profit organisations to apply to receive the funds raised from ticket sales of the event.

“Big Yellow Umbrella provides services, programs and activities and work closely with women-focused services to focus on empowerment, self-development, opportunity and building skills,” Cr Fedeli said.

Big Yellow Umbrella has indicated the funds will go towards supporting five local playgroups, helping mothers who have a small business at home to promote their services and products and inviting expert speakers to the playgroups to educate the mothers on issues and topics of interest to women, delivered by professionals.

Eleven local businesses have joined in to support International Women’s Day as sponsors for the Gala. They are:

  • Gold sponsors – Macarthur BMW and Sprouts Consultancy;
  • Silver sponsor – Politech Air Conditioning Services; and
  • Bronze sponsors – Books by Katrina, Century 21 Pereira Group, Jones XL Pty Ltd, McDonald’s, Stone Real Estate Macarthur, Taylor’d Funerals, The Greater Narellan Business Chamber and The Mindful Collective Macarthur.

CLICK HERE to book tickets.