Thursday, August 24, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Mackay Mums Make Finals At National Awards

Two local women making a positive impact on the lives and wellbeing of others were recognized at last weekend’s 2022 AusMumpreneurs Awards held in Sydney.

Mother-of-four Deidre Schill is making a difference to the mental and emotional wellbeing of other mums in the region and proving that online education has no barriers, especially in the new post-covid world, while CEO of Kickass Women and women’s advocate, Jo Sainsbury has once again found herself on the national stage being recognised for her passionate work empowering women to succeed - without limits.

When Deidre Schill launched ‘My Beautiful Self’ and organised her first free Women’s Circle, she hadn’t anticipated the response and attendance she would receive for her coaching that focuses on women’s topics including body image, social isolation, financial struggles, habits, and self-worth.

Nominated in the category of ‘Online Education’ and the People’s Choice 'Making a Difference (Health and Wellbeing)' at the 2022 AusMumpreneurs Awards, Deidre said that she was initially apprehensive about being nominated but had since realised it was more about acknowledging her clients’ progress.

“I’m truly honoured and feel blessed to have my clients and coach Caroline Bellenger in my corner. They were instrumental in getting me into the finals – and win or not, it’s a reminder that my work is making a difference in people’s lives,” she said.

With record increases in mental health concerns in households across Australia, My Beautiful Self is also about bringing to light the need for emotional support and inner work - particularly with the shift towards remote working.

“People are craving connection, especially after experiencing lengthy isolation periods and now working from remote locations. The amazing thing about the world we live in is that our voice and passion is not restricted to geographic locations,” she said.

In addition to her free monthly Women’s Circle and support group ‘MBS Action Takers’, Deidre also offers online programs and one-on-one coaching for women who need support for challenges or to reset habits that are holding them back; like through her Shedding to Shine (S2S) Program with Holistic Health Expert, Kylie Smith and Registered Nurse, Catherine Schill.  

“Women often come to me with intense feelings of despair, overwhelm, grief, or loss of direction, but on the flipside of that, some of my clients just want help to navigate their position in the world,” she said.

With over 30 years’ experience in the Heavy Equipment, Earthmoving and Rail Industries, Jo has first-hand experience with gender stereotyping and breaking through gender barriers, which has contributed to her becoming a 2022 AusMumpreneur finalist in the ‘Women’s Champion’ category.

“I’m really honoured to be nominated again for an AusMumpreneur award. It’s a very humbling experience, especially when standing up next to some of the most inspiring women in Australia.

“My work is about showing other women that they are worthy of the career they want, the life they deserve, and the recognition they receive. I’ve accepted this award nomination with all women in mind,” Jo said.

The winner of the 2021 ‘One to Watch’ Award, Jo is once again being recognised on the AusMumpreneur stage for her extensive women’s advocacy, including her recent Shades of Women event and performance in Dancing CEOs that fundraised over $600,000 for Women’s Legal Service.

“There are so many factors and influences on women, not only self-driven, but also gender-bias and society’s general expectations. My goal is to address the challenges that we’re seeing within the community, to create a ripple effect and empower women to embrace the community around them. It certainly takes a village,” she said.

Deidre Schill

Jo Sainsbury

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