SMSF Association CEO Peter Burgess made the opening address to more than 45 members and guests before the respected panel of speakers discussed challenges faced by businesswomen building their careers.
Andrea Slattery, Enza Ferraro, Nicolle Rantanen Reynolds and Donny Walford shared their expertise and stories with moderator, former SA Regional Council Chair Ida Wong F FIN, who highlighted the importance of the way the associations were collaborating.
"It is truly exciting to deliver a first-ever event celebrating International Women's Day that brings together three major finance-related member organisations for professionals across the banking and finance industry in South Australia,” said Ida.
"More importantly, this collaboration provides an opportunity to share skills and knowledge, whilst also highlighting the (career) pathways open between our associations through education and network."
South Australia Regional Council Chair Ben Owen F FIN said: “The event jointly held between FINSIA, SIAA and SMSFA tonight on International Women’s Day provides a reminder to think about the progress we have made towards gender equality in the Financial Services sector, and the work we still need to do.
“What was great about tonight was it truly showcases the breadth and depth of talent we have in the Financial Services sector in South Australia which contributes close to $6bn in GSP to South Australia.
“The panel tonight shows the diverse representation we have in leadership positions across the Financial Services Sector in South Australia and the continue drive to ensure greater diversity and inclusion. It is something we are passionate about at FINSIA, we know that this generates greater innovation, creativity, and progress in our sector.”
Judith Fox, CEO, Stockbrokers and Investment Advisers Association (SIAA): “Each one of us can actively support and embrace equity within our own sphere of influence.
“Financial services and financial advice in particular are areas where we need to improve gender equity. This event is a wonderful opportunity to hear from female leaders about the actions needed to accelerate gender equality.
SMSF Association CEO Peter Burgess, who made a keynote address, said: “As a community it’s important to focus on gender equity and to celebrate and embrace equity. The SMSF Association is proud to be co-hosting this event featuring an influential line-up of businesswomen discussing their careers and the challenges they have faced along the way.”