22 Mar $10,700 raised for The Sanctuary Refuge at the International Women’s Day Charity Fundraiser
This year I was fortunate to host the third annual International Women’s Day Charity Fundraiser event, which benefits The Sanctuary Refuge – a local privately funded refuge for women, children and pets escaping domestic and family violence, based here on the Gold Coast. If you have ever been to one of my events, you’ll know I like to go all out. My aim for this year was to elevate the event for the guests, and make $10,000 for The Sanctuary.
To put that figure into perspective – we raised $4075 last year, and $3600 in 2022 so this was a big jump but I felt like it was doable. After all, I’m a lucky girl and good things happen to me (this has been my mantra this year – Thank you Shakira Jade for introducing me to it – and I’ve got to say it’s been both reassuring and motivating). It is with such pride and gratitude that I get to share with you that this event raised $10,700. There are a list of people who I need to thank for helping make that a reality – including the guests, sponsors, speakers, and the team of people who helped me put the day together. But the first person I want to thank in this article is Kayley Moon from Honey Digital who gift matched our fundraising efforts. What is gift matching? So glad you asked! That is when someone matches the amount of money you have raised, dollar for dollar.
I was over half way through the day and realised we probably weren’t going to make the full $10,000, but we had exceeded last year’s figure already and I was pleased with that. Then Kayley walked up to me and said she intended to match me dollar for dollar. Let me tell you, I almost cried. I hadn’t told Kayley about my goal for the event, and she didn’t know where we were up to at the time. My goodness, I was so blown away by her generosity. It wasn’t until later that night that I realised we were going to clear $10,000 thanks to that contribution.
Thank you to our sponsors
Without the generosity of other business owners, these events just would not be what they are. This year our sponsors gave 10’s of 1000’s in gift vouchers, products, and financial sponsorship, the raffle had a prize total of $11,344 and gift bags were valued at over $1100 each.
Shakira Jade
At the age of 20, Shakira embarked on her entrepreneurial venture, starting Hair Candy from her home. What began as a one-woman operation has blossomed into a thriving business with three locations and a team of over 25. Shakira’s dedication to excellence is evident in her commitment to delivering premium Hair Extensions and Hair Products developed to her exact specifications.
But Shakira’s contributions to the industry extend beyond her business success. In 2023, she launched Shakira Jade, a coaching business aimed at empowering women in business. Through strategic guidance and mindset coaching, Shakira endeavours to help fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.
Website: www.shakirajade.com
Instagram: @_shakirajade
Facebook: Shakira Jade Business Coach
Podcast: The Success Club Podcast
Audacious Agency
At the core of everything we do is a belief that everyone has a journey and achievements that shouldn’t just be recognized but celebrated. But here’s the thing—we know it’s a crowded, noisy world out there. That’s where we come in, as your personal cheer squad, ready to elevate your story so it not only gets noticed but truly resonates with your audience. We leave a trail of breadcrumbs across the internet using awards to celebrate your wins and articles to connect people with your heart and expertise. These aren’t just any breadcrumbs; they’re more like golden nuggets of insight and value, carefully crafted to draw your ideal audience in and keep them coming back for more. This is our secret to building a presence that’s not just visible, but magnetic. Our mantra revolves around the three Rs: Reputation, Recognition, and Results. Think of us as your strategic partners, helping you navigate how you want the world to see you, clinching those awards that scream “I’m a force to be reckoned with,” and using that acclaim to forge deeper, more meaningful connections with your audience. Our ultimate goal is to make you “Googlicious.” We’re talking about dominating those search results and inspiring people with your narrative. It’s about shedding the hesitations, owning your story, and cultivating relationships that not only bring in the right prospects but turn them into fervent advocates. Our vision is a bold one. We’re on a crusade to empower the change-makers, the dreamers, and the doers to step into the spotlight and snatch the recognition they richly deserve. We get the challenges—never enough time, feeling invisible, wrestling with that nagging imposter syndrome. Our aim is to demystify being seen and heard, turning the daunting world of self-promotion into a walk in the park. With a treasure trove of experience in branding and storytelling, we’re not just about making noise; we’re about creating a legacy of success for our clients. We’re even innovating within the awards arena with nifty tools like an awards finder app and a training program for judges, upping the integrity game in the industry. The Audacious Agency isn’t just about building profiles; we’re in the business of bolding defying the misperceptions around self-promotion. With a hefty dose of heart, expertise, and audacity, we tell stories that have meaning and substance.
Website: theaudaciousagency.com
Facebook: Audacious Agency
Hummingbird Cosmetics & Skin Clinic
A proud Gold Coast native, Angie’s passion for cosmetic injecting shines brightly. Her mission? To empower both women and men, helping them rediscover confidence in their own skin.
At Angie’s clinic, it’s not just about injecting; it’s about crafting a holistic experience aimed at rejuvenation and self-assurance. Offering a comprehensive suite of services ranging from anti-wrinkle treatments to PDO threads and advanced skin therapies like LED light therapy and IV Drips, Angie is your go-to destination for a refreshingly beautiful transformation.
Navigating through the sea of cosmetic injectors on the Gold Coast can be overwhelming, but Angie’s dedication to her craft and her clients sets her apart. Armed with a graduate certificate in cosmetic nursing from the Gold Coast, Angie not only injects but also imparts her wisdom as a trusted trainer. For years, she has been grooming the next generation of injectors, emphasizing technique, dosage precision, and achieving optimal results for every client. Choosing cosmetic injecting is a significant decision, one that requires careful consideration and informed guidance. That’s where Angie’s personalized approach shines through. She takes the time to sit down with each client, understanding their aspirations intimately to tailor treatments that align perfectly with their goals.
Gold Coast residents, both men and women alike, Angie eagerly awaits the opportunity to welcome you to her esteemed Gold Coast Cosmetic Injectables Clinic in Miami. Step into her sanctuary of beauty and leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and utterly radiant.
Your journey to self-confidence starts here with Angie by your side.
Website: hummingbirdcosmetics.com.au
Instagram: @nurse_injector_angie
Facebook: Nurse Injector Angie
Honey Digital
I’M KAYLEY MOON: QUEEN BEE AT HONEY D
When I discovered the digital universe, it was love at first byte. Since then, I’ve lived and breathed Google Ads, honing my conversion craft. Starting by helping friends grow their businesses, years later, I’ve made my growing list of clients millions of dollars in revenue. Bored of my blah corporate role in big banking, I hit the proverbial road to see the world. During my travels, I became a qualified Google Partner. I’d found my niche on this powerhouse platform. In 2020, I launched Honey Digital, an agency specialising in Google Ads set-up, management and audits. From day one, my referrals and revenue have gone gangbusters, and I now have over 300 five-star reviews. I love what I do and have fun doing it. This isn’t an outsourcing house, a hands-on approach is central to my service. I work closely with you across your entire journey and manage all Google Ads accounts in-house. I continually polish my processes and am plugged into best practices and algorithm updates. I don’t pass your business around or white label my work; the buck stops with me. Yes, Honey Digital is Queensland based, but I work with clients from all over the world. Wherever you are, my MO is consistent: transparency and honesty are everything. What I do isn’t magic – using my expertise, I empower you to understand the stories your data tells and show you where there’s room for improvement. I know relationships change and evolve, so I don’t lock you into contracts; my value shows up loudly in your results.
2023 International Stevie Awards – Most Innovative Advertising Professional Of The Year GOLD – WINNER
2023 International Stevie Awards – Excellence In Service Innovation GOLD – WINNER
2022 International Stevie Best Female Entrepreneur Silver WINNER
2022 International Stevie – Startup Of The Year Silver – WINNER
2022 Australian Small Business Champion Awards – FINALIST
2021 Australian Small Business Champion Awards – FINALIST
2019 GCGIB Business Women Of The Year – FINALIST
Like Minded B’s LMBDW – Ambassador
Website: honey-digital.com.au
Facebook: Honey Digital PTY LTD
Karissa Lee
I am a Social Media Coach empowering women to step up as the face of their brands, igniting connection, standing out on social media and getting big results.
Empowering you to step up as the face of your brand to ignite connection, stand out & get results
🩷Personalised Group Coaching
👇🏼The Next Level Lounge
Facebook: Karissa Lee Coach
Instagram: @_karissalee
BreastEez
BreastEez Pillows is a breast support pillow to help women lie comfortably on their stomachs, whilst taking the pressure off their breast and chest area. Supporting women through every part of their breast journey: Natural, Hormonal, Medical or Cosmetic. Great for Massage, Physio, Acupuncture or even just relaxing at home.
We are striving to provide comfort for women everywhere
Website: breasteez.com.au
Facebook: BreastEez
Instagram: @breasteez
Fitribe
We are an online female fitness company that specialises in coaching teachers and nurses, customising to their exact lifestyle. We are run by females for females.
Website: fitribe.com.au
Facebook: Fitribe Official
Instagram: @Fitribe_official
Bird of Passage Design
Original brand design that tells a story and website design that captivates. I’m about helping small and medium-sized businesses make an impact through transformational brand and website design with a process that guides you through each step from concept to colour – idea to identity. I specialise in businesses in lifestyle, health, wellbeing and living, and other small businesses looking to make a positive impact.
Website: birdofpassagedesign.com.au
Facebook: Bird of Passage Design
Instagram: @bird.of.passage.design
LinkedIn: Bird of Passage Design
Savsant
Elevate your wellness journey with Savsant.
Natural products that nurture your body, mind, and soul.
Website: savsant.com
Facebook: Savsant
Instagram: @savsantstore
Social Seadog
Social Seadog is a boutique social media marketing agency delivering high-performance social media campaigns for small businesses. Social Seadog is passionate about social media marketing and takes pride in our genuine, personal and professional approach.
Website: socialseadog.com.au
Facebook: Social Seadog
Instagram: @socialseadog
LinkedIn: Social Seadog
We Think Business
Website: wethinkbusiness.com.au
Facebook: We Think Business
Instagram: @wethinkbusiness
LinkedIn: We Think Business
Find Your Centre
Instagram: @hayley_davis_findyourcentre
Lash Lovin You
Website: lashlovinyou.com
Facebook: Lash Lovin You
Instagram: @lashlovinyou
Courtenay Rodwell
Website: courtenayrodwell.com
Facebook: Courtenay Rodwell
Instagram: @courtneyrodwell
Lana Noir Photographer
Website: lananoir.com
Instagram: @lananoir
Rebellious Grace
Website: rebelliousgrace.com.au
Instagram: @rebelliousgrace_
Facebook: Rebelllios Grace
I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO THANK OUR PANELISTS
FATIMA ABDALLAH
Fatima Abdallah, a Cultural Identity Coach and Diversity Consultant, stands at the helm of transformative change in the realm of personal and professional development. Armed with a Bachelor of Social Science in Psychology and Behavioural Management from Bond University, her journey encompasses nearly two decades of professional expertise intertwined with 37 years of personal growth.
Founder of You are the Focus Community Care, established in 2019, Fatima embarked on a mission to impact lives free of judgment, particularly supporting young individuals facing challenges like ASD, ADHD, and behavioural or emotional struggles. The organisation’s focus is on fostering calmness, bravery, and happiness in these individuals, while also educating parents on effective routines and managing challenges through positive parenting.
Find Fatima Online
HAYLEY DAVIS
Hayley Davis, a seasoned facilitator with diverse training in women’s empowerment, spiritual development, cold water immersion, yoga, Pilates, and meditation. While deeply connected to The Sanctuary Refuge, a cause close to her heart, Hayley actively fundraises for them through annual events and small drives, raising a commendable total of $16,000 to date.
Running her business for almost three years, Hayley organizes Women’s Connection Retreats internationally, interstate, and locally, alongside women’s groups, workshops, spiritual gatherings, ladies’ days out, and Women’s Circles across the coast and surrounding areas. Her journey began with a monthly circle at the back of a yoga studio, emphasizing her primary purpose—to create spaces where women can connect, form friendships, and honour themselves. Her commitment lies in reminding every woman of her inherent worth and providing opportunities for self-care.
Find Hayley Online
findyourcentrewomensretreats.com
COURTENAY RODWELL
Courtenay Rodwell, a Master Practitioner of NLP, Time Line Therapy®️, and Hypnotherapy, is a dynamic entrepreneur, transformative coach, and professional speaker. As a respected leader in the realm of personal and professional development, Courtenay has dedicated her career to promoting radical authenticity, personal power, and a passion for life. A proud member of the Professional Speakers Association of Australia, she has cultivated a thriving platform offering comprehensive consulting services globally.
Find Courtenay Online
TRACEY GRACE
Tracey Grace, a Trauma-Informed Psychotherapist with a Post Graduate Degree, is a versatile professional boasting credentials as a Kinesiologist, Spinal Flow Practitioner, and The Richards Trauma Process Practitioner. As a Published Author, ex Paramedic, and Army Veteran, she brings a wealth of experience to her holistic mental health services. As an independent solo mother of two young boys, Tracey is not only an accomplished author but also a trauma-informed psychotherapist and multi-modality complementary health practitioner.
Find Tracey Online
JOYCE SANTIAGO SAVAGE
Joyce Santiago Savage, an accomplished International Speaker and Life/Business Coach, is on a mission to Educate, Inspire, and Activate Ambitious Minds. With a focus on triggering their desires and transforming struggles into success, Joyce is dedicated to guiding individuals in crafting a life by their design. Passionate about the profound impact of thought, Joyce has formulated an easily digestible formula for personal development, positioned as a pivotal starting point for positive life changes. Her keynote for 2024, titled “Gratitude and Goals: Your Way to Wealth,” is set to be a nationwide conversation, encouraging individuals to make uncomfortable yet transformative choices that lead to their full potential.
Find Joyce Online
JACQUELINE NAGLE
Jacqueline Nagle and the Any Given Tuesday team are unapologetically in the Business of Wisdom Making. At Any Given Tuesday, they empower (predominantly Gen X) Women to find their voice, step onto platforms, impart wisdom and claim the power of influence, impact and authority, They exist to amplify the voices of a (mostly) invisible generation, capturing the wisdom held in their lived and worked experience to create positions of authority so they can impact, influence and advocate for the generations rising. Any Given Tuesday are an education and activation company – hosting events, programs, (digital) courses, and collaborations empowering the women in our world to reclaim identity and reignite purpose through the power of spoken words.
Find Jacqueline Online
The Charity
The Sanctuary provides refuge, safety, education, nutrition, and case management counselling yet It has no Government funding and relies heavily on contributions from the community at large. Domestic Violence is a pattern of abusive behaviour in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence includes behaviour that is physically, sexually, emotionally, psychologically or economically abusive, threatening, coercive or aimed at controlling or dominating another person through fear. Domestic violence, in all forms, is a violation of basic human rights. Everyone, regardless of their sex, religion, nationality, race, relationship, or living arrangements, has the right to feel safe, and be safe, in public and at home. Domestic violence must not be accepted or excused. Saving Pet’s from Domestic Violence Our pet’s offer us unconditional love and stability for a woman experiencing domestic violence this bond is often targeted by the abuser. Pets are frequently caught up in the difficulty many people face in domestic violence situations when finding safe and affordable housing. People love their pets like their children so all too often they are prepared to stay in a violent home to keep them safe. The Sanctuary allows them to escape with their pets by their side.
Website: thesanctuaryrefuge.com.au
Facebook: The Sanctuary Refuge
Instagram: @thesanctuaryrefuge
And to our fabulous guests
Finally, I want to thank all the beautiful guests who came along to the event. This day would not have been the incredible success that it was without you all. I loved seeing you turn up so excited, with friends, partners, colleagues, and mum’s all getting an invite this year. It is such a pleasure to host you all, and I am so grateful for all your support. I hope to see you all again soon!
