This week marks the second anniversary of the Nambucca Valley Women's Business Network (NVWBN).
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Launched in Macksville on September 15, 2017, NVWBN President Elizabeth Bond says the group is thriving due to the support from local businesses, cafes and women from across the Nambucca Valley.
"It's been an incredible first two years. Aside from the regular monthly breakfast meetings, we've attracted big-name speakers, member speakers and held night events," she said.
"In June 2018 we ran an accredited 'social media bootcamp' weekend in partnership with the Coffs Community College and Nambucca Shire Council.
"This year we held a 'reverse' Xmas in July to support women's refuges on the Mid North Coast."
To date, the NVWBN has hosted meetings and events in Macksville, Nambucca Heads, Valla Beach, Bowraville and Scotts Head.
"We try to 'share the love' across the cafes in the Valley to give as many women as possible the opportunity to attend, as well as source gifts and prizes from local businesses," She said.
Ms Bond says one of the core goals of the NVWBN is to be as inclusive as possible.
"At every meeting so far, we've had new women attend along with the regulars. There's about a 50-50 split between employees and those who are self-employed. Ages range from women in their 30s, to in their 60s," she said.
"The meetings are pretty informal and everyone is really friendly and welcoming. The group has also been a great touch point for women who are new to the Valley."
While the NVWBN is thriving, there is still work to do.
"We'd love to encourage more women from across the Valley to attend meetings and of course increase our memberships," she said.
"We also plan to deliver more workshops, mentoring opportunities as well as fundraisers. We're connected to the Macleay Women's Business Network, who helped mentor us in setting up the Network, as well as the Coffs Coast Business Women's Network, so there is plenty of opportunity to think more broadly about the role of group.
"On a final note, I'd like to wholeheartedly thank the eight committee members for their tireless work. We are all volunteers and it's humbling that these amazing women have continued to support the vision of the NVWBN- to support, inspire and empower business women in the Nambucca Valley."