OUR STORY

WE SUPPORT
OUR MEMBERS

It’s time we made a gender equal world a reality.

FW is an inclusive, member-led organisation committed to achieving gender equality in Australian workplaces. We support women and gender diverse people in their careers, training the men they work with and guiding the employers they work for.

"We offer a safe, respectful environment where debate, discussion and difference are celebrated."

—HELEN MCCABE, FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

We launched, in 2018, with a promise to help women connect, learn and lead. Today we talk to millions of women every year, through our books, podcasts, essays, training and development programs, live interviews and in-person events.

FW members join as individuals or through a program purchased by their boss. We also work actively to support members who face disadvantage and discrimination, in particular First Nations women.

An FW membership offers a range of activities, from mentoring and job connections to intermediate and advanced leadership and media training. Members also attend our International Women’s Day Summit, one of the most significant events in our calendar, delivered in person and online.

Members are most likely to be among Australia's two million professional women. But we include men too. Since the beginning, men have joined and been welcome in our community. Today we work with dozens of public and private sector organisations, and support men to be better, and more gender inclusive leaders.

FW is a safe, respectful environment where debate, discussion and difference are celebrated. We are more interested in our members’ attitude than their age. We are inclusive, and proud of the fact our members care about one another’s personal and professional success.

It’s time to make a gender equal world, a reality. Will you join us?

MEMBER BENEFITS

BCORP CERTIFIED

We are a proud to be a Certified B Corporation, demonstrating our commitment to maintain high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.

READ NOW

RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN

We have created and are implementing a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), endorsed by Reconciliation Australia.

Our RAP signifies our commitment and efforts to support social and economic equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly women and gender diverse people.

READ NOW

IN THE NEWS

Read the latest press about FW and Jobs Academy - our programs, partnerships, latest awards and exciting new projects.

READ NOW

WHO WE ARE

A professional portrait of Helen McCabe. She is smiling.

HELEN MCCABE
FOUNDER, MANAGING DIRECTOR

Journalist, magazine editor and digital media executive.

Helen was Editor-in-Chief of The Australian Women's Weekly, Deputy Editor of The Sunday Telegraph and spent more than a decade working in television before founding FW in 2018.

Helen also hosts FW's weekly Leadership Series podcast, featuring stories of influential women who lead.

JAMILA RIZVI
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR

Best-selling author, opinion columnist, podcast host and gender equality advocate.

Previously, Jamila advised the Rudd and Gillard Governments on gender equality, early childhood education, media and employment participation.

Jamila is also a board member of the Wheeler Centre for Books, Writing and Ideas, and an ambassador for PLAN International.

DYMPHNA JAMES SCOTT
COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR

Dymphna brings deep commercial expertise from senior roles at Australia’s leading media agencies and companies, specialising in driving growth and high-impact partnerships.

Her extensive understanding of media, business strategy, and sales means FW clients benefit from innovative solutions, strong results, and a partner who truly understands what delivers value.

KATE NERONI
CHIEF OF STAFF

Leader, key advisor and resident problem solver.

Kate thrives in dynamic, fast-paced environments and is adept at high-level strategic thinking.

She brings expert cross-platform development and critical thinking to her work at FW, having launched her career as Executive Assistant and Office Coordinator at Bauer Media.

BECKY HANSEN
HEAD OF JOBS ACADEMY

Project lead, people manager and skilled community organiser, with more than 10 years' experience in the public and private sector.

Rebecca is dedicated to creating people-focused programs with social value, like Jobs Academy which helps support women returning to work.

MAEVA DEDY
HEAD OF FINANCE AND BUSINESS EXPANSION

A finance and commercial strategy leader, Maeva brings extensive experience from the construction and early learning sectors.

Known for her analytical, collaborative, and innovative approach, she is passionate about helping teams make sense of data and upskilling emerging leaders.

Maeva enjoys capturing candid moments with her camera during her beachside morning walks. She loves connecting with people, whether it's through live music events or a meal. She is an avid reader and podcast listener.

PATTI ANDREWS
HEAD OF BRAND AND MEMBERSHIPS

Patti is known for her unique combination of logic and creativity, which she brings to FW and the Jobs Academy’s branding and content strategy.

Passionate about connecting with the audience, Patti excels at creating both written and visual content that resonates emotionally but is also clear and concise.

Patti sit on the Board of Directors at Health Voyage Ltd, an NFP dedicated to the health and mental health of women and young people.

EMILY JOYCE
HEAD OF PARTNERSHIPS

Writer and digital advertising specialist, Emily started her career with some of Australia's leading ad agencies.

When she's not wrangling her kids, she's finding time to recharge with the beloved women in her life, running to very loud music, or searching for the nearest quiet corner.

RUBY LEAHY GATFIELD
HEAD OF POLICY AND PROGRAM IMPACT

Ruby is a respected thought leader in gender equity with a passion for data and research.

She oversees the monitoring and evaluation of FW's national programs, including Jobs Academy. She also leads FW’s Change Makers program, supporting over 500 males leaders across the country since 2021 to champion gender equity in their work. Previously, she was a senior adviser to the federal Workplace Gender Equality Agency.

Ruby brings deep insights into the trends, risks and research in Australian workplaces and boardrooms today.

MEL LEE
HEAD OF DIGITAL

Mel Lee is a seasoned digital leader with a diverse background spanning engineering, UX design, marketing and entrepreneurship. With a wealth of experience in leading cross-functional teams, Mel brings a unique blend of technical expertise, marketing capability and business acumen to her role as Head of Digital at FW.

Prior to joining FW, Mel founded and successfully ran her own business for the past 12 years, where she honed her skills in strategic planning, team management, and customer engagement. In her spare time... well, she's a mum of two under four- so she doesn't have any!

CHRISTINE ELLEM
HEAD OF JOBS ACADEMY DELIVERY

Christine is dedicated to achieving career advancement for women and gender diverse people, and equipping men to be a driving force in gender equity conversations too.

She has previously worked on the Project Return program at FW, helping women return to work after a career break for caring responsibilities. Christine has 15 years of experience across the higher education field, including teaching, research, publication, program development and delivery, with a strong focus on equity and inclusion across these fields.

LAUREN BECKMAN
HEAD OF CANBERRA LEARNING PROGRAM

Lauren joined FW after more than a decade in the Australian Public Service to lead on all things Canberra.

A specialist in stakeholder engagement, strategic policy and project management, Lauren also brings her experience as a content creator talking about politics and social issues through a feminist lens.

BRIANA BLACKETT
HEAD OF CONTENT

An award-winning communicator and a seasoned journalist with extensive global news experience.

She was a founding member of AI Jazeera English in Qatar, which followed a successful career working for Associated Press Television, based at its headquarters in London. She has also worked for Greenpeace International in Europe, and in federal politics and broadcast news in Australia. Briana is passionate about diversity and inclusion, and is a keen campaigner for greater media representation of all Australians.

MELANIE DIMMITT
CONTENT SPECIALIST

A journalist, author and broadcaster. Since her debut book, Special, was published by Ventura Press, Melanie has written, spoken, podcasted and advocated far and wide for caregivers. She has written for titles including The Age, Sydney Morning Herald and Broadsheet, publishes The Blend tube-feeding magazine and hosts the award-winning NDIS Know-how and Tubie Talks podcasts.

MADDEN BURNS
HEAD OF LEARNING DEVELOPMENT

Project management and stakeholder engagement specialist, with experience across public and private sectors.

Madden specialises in gender equality and social impact, having worked as a senior adviser to the federal Workplace Gender Equality Agency.

In 2020, Madden was selected to sit on the UN Women Sydney Committee.

SALLY SPICER
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

Journalist, award-winning podcast producer and content specialist. Winner of the Mumbrella Publish Awards: Journalist of The Year 2024

Sally is a former radio journalist and an expert at crafting effective and impactful content. She oversees FW's social media channels, PR and communications, and is the Executive Producer of awarded podcasts There's No Place Like Home and Too Much.

MEISHA HILL
ACTING HEAD OF GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS

With a strong foundation in media operations and management spanning Australia and the United States, Meisha has contributed to organizations like oOh! Media, Junkee Media, and The New York Times.

She is passionate about empowering women in their chosen careers and outside of work, enjoys adventures with her young family.

SUSAN WARBY
EXECUTIVE ADVISOR

Business all-rounder, who strives to improve customer experience, relationships and processes.

In varied roles, across many industries, Susan has led small and large teams in operations, sales, marketing, customer service, event management, finance, strategic planning and product development.

Susan also enjoys volunteering as a way of connecting with people and contributing to her local community.

SOPHIE HUNTER
ART DIRECTOR

Designer and artist, Sophie began her career with advertising heavyweights Guihen Jones Creative Agency.

Having worked on publications like Mother & Baby, DOLLY and ELLE, Sophie brings a fresh perspective to her creations and loves to see FW's artwork ‘out in the wild’.

She lives for outdoor adventures and is often on a wave or a mountain when not designing.

LUCY HOULT
HEAD OF DIGITAL PRODUCT

Lucy has devoted 15 years to product, striving to create experiences that customers love.

Her career highlights include working at Electronic Arts, Air New Zealand and TVNZ.

Outside of work she enjoys exploring the beautiful outdoors, and sharing food with family and friends.

RUMALI KULARATNE
HEAD OF LEARNING DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY

Rumali brings expertise from a background in education, communications, and community engagement to the program management and delivery of Jobs Academy.

Prior to FW, she worked at Monash University, focusing on primary prevention of gender-based violence and embedding inclusive practice to further LGBTIQA+ inclusion, anti-racism action, and gender equity.

Drawn to work that supports people’s sense of self-determination, she takes pride in contributing to efforts changing the story about women’s economic participation and autonomy.

ASTRID EDWARDS
LEARNING DESIGN SPECIALIST

Bibliophile, educator and interviewer. Astrid is an expert at creating learning materials and delivering professional development experiences.

She is a cross-disciplinary PhD candidate in Journalism and Publishing at the University of Melbourne. She writes literary criticism and sometimes judges literary prizes, including the Stella Prize.

Astrid taught in the Associate Degree of Professional Writing and Editing at RMIT University for seven years. Prior to that, she was an economics and policy consultant specialising in social and climate policy.

She is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

PHY MEI LIU
RESEARCH AND PROGRAM EVALUATION DIRECTOR

Non-executive board director, evaluator and passionate intersectional gender equity advocate, with a background in public health policy and programs.

Phy Mei is committed to elevating lived experience and building evidence-informed practice through storytelling and research.

Prior to joining FW, Phy Mei worked on the implementation of recommendations made by the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System at the Victorian Department of Health and brings a systems lens to tackle complex social issues.

CANDICE CLERICI
DIGITAL MARKETING DIRECTOR

A data driven digital marketer with over 14 years experience.

Over her career Candice has worked for organisations including the ABC and Foxtel, as well as working for national and international clients at leading marketing agencies. During this time she has utilised her understanding of digital trends and opportunities to deliver insight-led strategic campaigns across a variety of marketing platforms.

Away from the screen you'll find her wandering her local farmers market or walking along the water.

KIRSTY DIXON
DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYER PARTNERSHIPS

Partnership and program manager, with a passion for fostering growth and helping people overcome barriers through meaningful connections.

Kirsty brings extensive experience leading industry partnerships and employability initiatives in the university sector, as well as perspectives from the technology, not-for-profit and broadcasting industries.

An avid music and theatre lover, Kirsty finds joy in a good cup of coffee and embracing the chaos of her young family.

KATALIN KARA
SENIOR MANAGER, DATA AND REPORTING

Driven by a desire to tackle challenges head-on, Kata is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in marketing, project management, data analysis, risk management and more across Europe and Australia.

Kata thrives in analytical roles where she can translate data into actionable strategies.

If she’s not knee deep in a spreadsheet, you’ll find her on the tennis court, at the gym, or engrossed in the latest live theatre show, cherishing moments spent with friends or volunteering in the community.

JOSHUA LEE
CRM SPECIALIST

An experienced CRM consultant, Joshua has a knack for managing and delivering complex projects, especially with HubSpot CRM. He has a talent for simplifying processes, adapting to new systems, and finding practical solutions that help businesses achieve their goals.

A natural collaborator and problem-solver, Joshua enjoys working with teams and stakeholders to create innovative results. Outside the office, he’s a passionate foodie and the go-to chef in his family, always cooking up delicious meals to share with friends and loved ones.

EMILY LIENERT
SENIOR MANAGER EMPLOYER PARTNERSHIPS

A proud Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung and Yaegl woman, Emily is a tireless advocate for First Nations rights and intersectional feminism. As the Senior Manager of Employer Partnerships at FW, she leads initiatives and partnerships with leading organisations, connecting the women of Jobs Academy with flexible and secure careers.

With years of experience in advocacy, community-building and management of the Jobs Academy program, Emily draws on this expertise to bridge the gap between employers and talent. She’s especially proud of her work in supporting First Nations women of the Jobs Academy program to re-enter the paid workforce.

ELLENI TSAKETAS
SENIOR MANAGER, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

A passionate marketing specialist who loves helping people grow and achieve their goals.

Elleni is experienced in creating personalised campaigns, supporting individuals’ ability to learn and develop their careers.

When she’s not working, she’s probably painting or arranging flowers.

JO LABOO
DIGITAL LEARNING PRODUCT SPECIALIST

With a love and background for all things creative, Jo is an extremely process driven Project Manager who has worked across a variety of fields from digital, education, e-commerce, print & event management.

With an impressive portfolio that spans over fifteen years of Project Management her experiences are not only tied to digital, having worked in a variety of fields across Australia, including but not limited to; Project Management, Online Communications, Marketing, Web Publishing, Art Curation and Event Management.

AMY MCCABE
SENIOR MANAGER, EVENTS

Thriving in fast-paced environments, Amy's energetic and enthusiastic personality makes her a perfect fit for the world of events.

With a passion for client management and connecting with people, she strives to ensure that all parties have a seamless and enjoyable experience. If she’s not working, she’s probably doing something sporty.

TENIOLA KOMOLAFE
SENIOR MANAGER, COMMUNITY

A citizen of three countries, Teniola is passionate about people and the unique stories they share.

In addition to that, she has a diverse skill set gained through her creative background in media, communication and entrepreneurship as she ran her own business successfully for 6+ years prior to working at FW.

MARCHELLA RUSCIANO-BARROW
VIDEO AND PRODUCTION MANAGER

A creative worker, with a keen eye for detail.

Marchella has experience in the film industry as a production assistant and runner, as well as a social media manager for the podcast, Emsolation.

Marchella has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Melbourne, where she majored in Creative Writing and Gender Studies.

In her downtime she loves to paint, read and head to the theatre to see the latest musical.

IREMIDE AYONRINDE
PLATINUM+ EMERGING LEADERS COORDINATOR

A strong advocate for gender equality, human rights and community development.

Iremide divides her time between her roles as our Platinum+ Emerging Leaders Coordinator, a Youth Activist with Plan International Australia and the Community Engagement Coordinator for the United African Farm in Melbourne.

Committed to education, she is also currently undertaking a Bachelor of Arts - with double majors in International Relations & Middle Eastern Politics, whilst also pursuing a minor in Arabic.

HOLLY LIPMAN
ACCOUNT MANAGER (PARTNERSHIPS)

An expertise in Gender Studies and is passionate about instigating social change through excellent communication.

Holly is a qualified communications and media professional with experience in stakeholder engagement, campaign development, media buying and implementation through her time at leading media agencies OMD and Spark Foundry.

When she's not at work, you'll find Holly sculpting pottery or co-editing PUSH Magazine.

EDEN TIMBERY
NEWSLETTER MANAGER

Storyteller and creative who always loves to learn new things.

Eden approaches work and life with an efficient and adaptable mindset, always striving to keep themselves and those around them on their toes. They enjoy discovering new ways to bring different ideas, experiences and people together, particularly when it comes to the content they create at FW and beyond.

When they're not working, they'll probably have their nose buried in a book with a freshly brewed cup of tea in hand.

SOPHIE KING
ONLINE LEARNING DELIVERY MANAGER

Sophie is a student, a disability support worker and a personal development workshop facilitator who brings a demonstrated knowledge of supporting her community to her work at FW.

She’s also currently undertaking an arts degree majoring in Media and English as well as Theatre Studies and understands the power of storytelling in affecting real-world change.

When she’s not hitting the books or running a workshop you’ll find Sophie in the sun with a good book or at the theatre.

PAN HSU PYAE EAIN
MANAGER, ONLINE DELIVERY

Pan is an enthusiastic researcher with a strong academic and practical background. She holds advanced degrees from the University of Melbourne, focusing on public policy, project management and leadership. Her work includes research on politics, activism and policy analysis. For her strong commitment to education, she has received several scholarships and awards for academic excellence.

Passionate about fostering inclusive communities and promoting social equality, she contributes to impactful research and community initiatives.

BIANCA KENDRICK
LIVE DELIVERY MANAGER

Bianca is passionate about developing policies and programs that empower communities. With experience in program delivery, monitoring, and evaluation, she is committed to ensuring initiatives are responsive to community needs.

She recently completed her Master of Public Policy and Management at the University of Melbourne, gaining expertise in evidence-based social policy and both qualitative and quantitative research.

JESSE KITZLER
COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

A proud Māori woman of Ngāti Porou, Jesse is a goal-driven leader with a passion for social justice and intersectional feminism. Recently graduating from Media: Communications and Journalism at UNSW, Jesse’s work reflects her tireless commitment to challenging stereotypes and sparking meaningful conversations on gender equality.

In her downtime, you’ll find her at the gym, immersed in a book or studying in a cafe with an overpriced iced latte.

IONA BULFORD
MEMBER SUPPORT MANAGER, JOBS ACADEMY

An enthusiastic team-player, with a strong focus on communication and connection.

In addition to her role at FW, Iona is a post-graduate psychology student who enjoys applying her research in mental health and gender to her work.

When not working or studying, Iona can be found playing football (AFL), watching movies or going hiking with her friends.

AMALIA TRIANTIS
DESIGN ASSISTANT

Amalia heroes a holistic blend of creativity, strategy and emotion to deliver heavily considered designs. Her philosophy revolves around creating art that initiates positive change, encourages conversation and evokes excitement.

Through volunteering at like-minded gender support organisations, Amalia has solidified an unwavering passion for understanding the important role communication design plays in social justice advances, and how her designs can advocate for change without sacrificing aesthetics.

Outside the FW office, you can find Amalia sipping on her third soy matcha latte of the day, or scouring op-shops in search of hidden gems.

GRETA JOHNSON
POLICY AND RESEARCH INTERN

Greta is building a career centred around diversity, inclusion and equity. She recently completed her Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of Melbourne, with a research focus on international relations and gender equality.

Outside of work Greta enjoys going to pilates classes, catching up with friends and bingeing great podcasts.

EDDIE BIGGS
JOBS ACADEMY ASSISTANT

Empathetic and team-oriented, Eddie is a strong advocate for breaking down the barriers to gender equality.

Beyond the workplace, Eddie is pursuing a Masters in Management (Human Resources) at the University of Melbourne, where he’s also involved in student leadership. In 2022, he helped to implement a range of welfare initiatives to ensure student safety on campus.

Also an avid chess enthusiast and AFL player, Eddie loves taking the chance to unwind with a cup of tea and a good book.

ANTHONY BRADY
SENIOR MANAGER (COMMUNICATIONS)

Anthony brings experience in community engagement, behaviour change and communications. He has previously worked in the not-for-profit and tertiary education sectors, building communities' confidence in social and environmental action.

He is passionate about the intersection between human rights and climate action which guides how he approaches everything he does.

VICTORIA RENDE
PROJECT MANAGER

Victoria is a public relations specialist turned project manager with a thing for user-centered, sustainable work. She brings her communication background and a decade of customer experience to every project.

Her career spans three continents — from Buenos Aires to Europe and now Sydney — where she’s doing a double MBA in Project Management and Women in Leadership.

WORK WITH US

Want to become a sponsor, partner, speaker, or just say hello?

OUR STORY

WE SUPPORT OUR MEMBERS

It’s time we made a gender equal world a reality.

FW is an inclusive, member-led organisation committed to achieving gender equality in Australian workplaces. We support women and gender diverse people in their careers, training the men they work with and guiding the employers they work for.

"We offer a safe, respectful environment where debate, discussion and difference are celebrated."

—HELEN MCCABE, FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

BCORP CERTIFIED

RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN

IN THE NEWS

WHO WE ARE

WORK WITH US

WE SUPPORT
OUR MEMBERS