Our Incredible Members
July 2023 - June 2024
Adrienne Donnelly
VIRTUAL ASSISTANT
Organised by Adrienne
Adrienne Donnelly is a Virtual Personal Assistant who calls Newcastle home. Adrienne started her business, Organised by Adrienne, in 2016 when she saw a need for all round support for small business owners.
Adrienne has a team of specialists that work with her on projects including virtual assistants, graphic designers, photographers, videographers, copy writers, website developers and editors.
Adrienne is also the co-founder of the Newcastle Virtual Assistant Network, a group of over 125 other local Virtual Assistants.
Adrienne's career previously included roles in Human Resources, Recruitment, Office Admin and Operation Management.
When she isn't working, you can find Adrienne enjoying a sunrise walk at Merewether or exploring the newest bar around town with her partner.
Alex Beal
ASSOCIATE
Hicksons Lawyers
Hi, my name is Alex Beal. I am an Associate working at Hicksons Lawyers here in Newcastle. I specialise in workplace relations, employment and safety matters.
I joined the Gen Collective Committee in October 2023. I am originally from New Zealand and I was keen to explore opportunities to further my network in Newcastle and get involved in planning some exciting networking events in the region. Little did I know I would be joining a powerhouse committee of dynamic women doing some pretty incredible things!
I am passionate about working with employers and individuals to solve the many challenges they face in the workplace. I have a particular interest in disputed Fair Work matters (unfair dismissals and the like), workplace health and safety (both physical and psychosocial safety) and modern slavery laws.
Link to my firm profile here for further details: Hicksons Lawyers - Alexandra Beal
In my spare time you can find me down at my local rowing club, running (or attempting to) somewhere near the beach or camping in one of the many beautiful spots in NSW.
I couldn’t recommend attending the Gen Collective events enough – the events offer a range of opportunities for professional development and to build your network in a welcoming environment.
I look forward to seeing you at the next event!
Alexandria Facchini
MARKETING COORDINATOR
Sharp Office
Alexandria is an all-round marketing maven with a keen interest in B2B, digital and stakeholder engagement. With experience across hospitality, not for profit, finance and retail, Alexandria has found the perfect blend of challenge and fulfilment in her role at Sharp Office - who for 50+ years have been one of the Hunter's leading business partners for Sharp and Kyocera print solutions, office products, furniture fit-outs and branded merchandise.
Alongside her marketing experience, community outreach is important to Alexandria, who was recently a chairperson of the Macedonian Orthodox Community of Newcastle and President of the local Macedonian language school.
Beyond the marketing sphere, you can find Alexandria out with her dogs and chasing new foodie places around town.
Amy-Lea Pettigrew
DIRECTOR
Pettigrew Family Funerals
Over the past 15 years, I have worked across the Events, Marketing and Advertising, Interior Design and Graphic Design. For the last 7 years I have been Business Director for Pettigrew Family Funerals. I am fortunate that my day to day, with my family business, Pettigrew Family Funerals, allows me to pursue my passion to work with and have an impact with not-for-profit charities and organisations, including Foundation Member for Hunter Medical Research Institute, Previous Board Member and now Ambassador for Lifeline Hunter and Central Coast and Fundraising Volunteer for both Cancer Council and Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Brodey Corbett
COMMUNITCATION COORDINATOR
The Marketing GP
I have always been excellent at communicating with others which led me to the path of studying a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Public Relations at the University of Newcastle. I am well-versed in the world of communication, with a real knack for making anything.
Caitlin Powell
PEOPLE & CULTURE MANAGER
Cutcher & Neale
As an experienced People & Culture Manager, Caitlin creates influential leaders, connected teams and workplaces worth working for.
Caitlin loves to connect people to purpose, build leadership capability, and create cultures by design through leadership coaching, workshop facilitation and organisational development consulting.
Caitlin loves working with business leaders to help discover the real issues that are holding them, their people and their business back, and developing strategies to achieve their vision.
Outside of work Caitlin’s a human, too. She’s a serious social basketballer, a podcast addict and a wannabe artist. She is also raising two tiny humans which she considers a leadership challenge in itself.
Danielle Williams
DIRECTOR / SENIOR BOOKKKEEPER
Williams Accounting Concepts
Being the daughter of two high school math teachers, you could say that Danielle was destined to work with numbers. Entering the workforce in 2007, she hit the ground running, working with accountants and learning all that she could, whilst completing studies in a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Newcastle.
During her 10 years working with Accountants, it became clear that there was a real passion for working with clients to help them run their business. Dani enjoyed reconciling and looking at the numbers each day, analysing cash flow and balance sheets. Talking with clients about the goals they had, and how they can best focus their skills on running and expanding the business. This part of her job became an ever-expanding love, all whilst looking after their paperwork.
“My drive to help not only large businesses but small ‘family’ operated businesses was increased when I welcomed my first born, Ruby. At this time, I started to understand the importance of family time and how quickly time moves. This was only compounded when we welcomed our second born, Harvey, only 2 years later. I like to think of my clients as another member of my family. That I am here to help them get more out of their business, so that they can spend it on the things they love - their family.”
We believe in the mission of each of our clients and strive to support them in the areas we specialise in. So that we can alleviate any pain points and assist them in reaching their goals successfully. We are always levelling up our services so that we can better equip our clients to navigate the ever-changing accounting landscape. Contact us today to see how we can help you reach your business goals.
Darcy Luck
FINANCE SPECIALIST
Novo Finance
I'm Darcy and I'm the broker behind Novo Finance. My career in finance first started when I was 17. I've been in the finance industry for over 13 years and now run my own brokerage. Born and raised Novocastrian, I wanted my business to represent the city I love and people that live here. When I'm not at work I'm busy chasing after my two kids or dragging them along to watch netball games.
Elena Terol
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Headjam
I work in marketing and digital for creative agency Headjam, supporting the development of strategy, content production and planning.
I am an experienced professional with skills in content production, digital marketing, account management, and communications. I have expertise in suicide prevention, population health, and implementation advising, holding an MSc in public health.
I also have a solid track record as a writer.
Emily Feenstra
MARKETING EXECUTIVE
Westfield Kotara
Since completing my Bachelor of Business in 2019, I have had the opportunity to work in various roles within the marketing and retail industry. I have always been a strong advocate for the Westfield brand, since a little girl going to 'shops' with my Dad, to working my first retail job at fashion store Sportsgirl, to now being a part of the Marketing team I've established a strong connection to the centre, retailers and the community. My passion for marketing stems from being able to get creative, bringing exciting campaigns to life that align with marketing strategies and now being part of a large scale company to achieve business objectives. In my role, I thrive leading and executing digital campaigns and in-centre activations and creating fun and engaging content for digital channels. In addition to my passion for marketing, I have a creative flair for photography, content creation and all things self development.
Emma Knight
OWNER & DIRECTOR
Mint Business Centre
Emma Knight is the Owner and Director at Mint Business Centre.
Mint Business Centre offers professional and efficient support to businesses of all sizes by adding value where it's needed. We don’t offer a one-size-fits-all approach to our clients. We understand that all clients and businesses require different levels of support and that’s why we are here to work with you.
We want your business to succeed and grow in the direction you want it to.
At Mint Business Centre, we offer a range of services. Our most popular services are our Phone Answering Service, Virtual Office and Business Addresses, Serviced Offices and Casual Meeting Room Hire.
Hayley Coleborne
MANAGING PARTNER
GrowthGurus
I'm Hayley, the Co-founder and Managing Partner at Growth Gurus, where I blend my passion for creating meaningful connections with innovative marketing strategies. Growth Gurus delivers email and lifecycle marketing solutions across various industries. My experience in retail operations has grounded my marketing approach, emphasising the importance of aligning strategies with business goals and customer expectations. Leading with enthusiasm and a collaborative spirit, I aim to inspire my team to reach their full potential, fostering an environment rich in creativity and mutual respect. In this digital age, I aim to harness the latest technologies to drive our client's success and pave the way for innovative marketing practices that resonate on a human level. We focus on shaping the future of how businesses connect with their audiences, making every interaction meaningful.
On a personal note... I grew up in Sydney, and after almost a decade in Melbourne, we moved our family (husband, three kids, two dogs) to Port Stephens in 2018 and never looked back.
Jade Pearsall
GENERAL MANAGER
Approved
An ambitious and motivated leader with over 15 years’ experience cultivating relationships, leading people and driving performance and profitability through innovative human-centred strategies. With a career spanning HR & Business Consultancy, Property Development and Client Experience (CX), Jade has developed the necessary skills to expertly lead within the NSW construction industry.
Janelle Kirk
SENIOR FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Coastal Advise Group
Senior Financial Adviser Janelle Kirk is clearly passionate about supporting people to realise their financial goals.
With 52 years in the finance industry, including over two decades in the banking sector – 15 spent with the CBA; and more than 20 years as a financial planner, Janelle has developed strong quality relationships based on trust.
While working within the banking industry Janelle identified the need for financial planning services, especially for the ageing population.
As I moved with them through life, I recognised there were a lot of pitfalls for those who couldn’t see what could be done to make the most of their retirement – what I usually call – ‘to retire smiling
Wanting to embrace a holistic approach to supporting people with their financial future Janelle pursued further study to qualify as a Certified Financial Planner, and holds a Masters in Financial Planning and Graduate Certificate of Business Research.
My approach will be different depending on where a person is in their life journey. It really is about listening to them to learn what is important to them and what they want to achieve.
When Janelle is asked ‘when’ someone should engage with a financial planner, her advice is – “the earlier you start the better”.
When she’s not busy seeing clients, Janelle enjoys exercising at one of Newcastle’s many wonderful beaches, spending time with her husband Wayne, and volunteering with the Hunter Melanoma Foundation.
Jaylene Trovato
EMPLOYMENT LAWYER | HR CONSULTANT
IgniteHR
I specialise in providing tailored advice on employment law, HR policies, and compliance strategies that meet your organisation’s unique needs. My goal is to build workplaces that are compliant, ethical, and productive, all while boosting employee morale and well-being.
If you’re looking for support to elevate your HR and compliance practices, I’d like to connect and discuss how we can achieve your organisation’s goals together.
Jessica O'Neill
CONSULTANT
Beilby Downing Teal Pty Ltd
Jessica is a recruitment specialist at Beilby Downing Teal and Rimfire Resources with five years’ experience in both the executive search, permanent recruitment and contracting space. She has worked across a range of sectors, including Administration and Office Support, Construction, Manufacturing, Supply Chain and Logistics, Human Resources, Infrastructure and Education and Training.
Jessica has a strong interest in partnering with businesses to understand their organisation on a whole including the culture, pain points and unique recruitment needs. She prides herself on sourcing the right candidates and focusing on their development and progression within her client’s organisation. For her candidates, she focuses on being their career partner and developing strong relationships to place them in leading organisations for the long term.
Jessica graduated from the University of Newcastle in 2020 with a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Marketing/Leadership and Management.
In her spare time, you'll find her enjoying trying new restaurants, camping, travelling, and engaging in charity events in the Newcastle region.
Jess Walker
MANAGING DIRECTOR & PRINCIPAL BROKER
Walker Kingston Insurance Brokers
Meet Jess, a seasoned professional in the insurance industry, boasting 18 years of expertise. Known for a deep commitment to aiding individuals and businesses, Jess's passion lies in simplifying the complexities of insurance.
Taking on the perspective of a fellow business owner, Jess truly understands the challenges firsthand. She excels in making insurance a crucial component of a business strategy. Jess isn't just there for established companies or startups with their insurance needs; she actively participates in their growth journey.
Want to chat or meet in person? Book here!
Kasia Gospoś
CEO
LH AGENDA
Kasia Gospoś has been named one of Australia’s most inspirational women online by Open Colleges, and is a silver award winner of the Stevie Awards for Women in Business - Female Entrepreneur of the Year.
As the founder of LH Agenda, an online community and stationery brand created to empower leaders to make their mark on the world, Kasia is an advocate for the rising powerful woman and the young leaders of tomorrow.
She grew up in communist Poland, where she studied Finance and Banking, going on to work as a commercial analyst, management accountant (ACMA), and project management professional. She founded LH Agenda after observing women struggle with confidence in the workplace and wanting to be part of the solution.
LH Agenda self-coaching journals, planners, and office essentials encourage leadership, daily success habits, goal-kicking, passion and motivation, with elegant designs that can be personalised.
Kasia lives in Newcastle with her business partner and husband Nino, 2 boys and the family corgi, Happy. She loves listening to R&B, playing tennis and golf and exploring the latest design trends.
Kate Bernardino
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - IT SERVICES
Anglican Diocese of Newcastle
With her extensive range of skills, from event management to media relations and project management, Kate is passionate about delivering outstanding outcomes for her stakeholders.
Kate is a lover of all things fashion, coffee and community. She began working in Public Relations after completing qualifications in Marketing, Fashion Design and Technology and Business.
Kate Johnson
COMMUNITY PROJECT OFFICER
Lake Macquarie & Newcastle Suicide Prevention Network
My passion thrives as the Community Project Officer for the Lake Macquarie & Newcastle Suicide Prevention Network. Here, I oversee projects, events, and our incredible volunteers. It's a privilege to talk openly with the community about mental health and suicide prevention. I connect with inspiring individuals with lived experience who share valuable perspectives. I use my own story of lived experience to perform my role with empathy and understanding.
My background is in Marketing & Communications with experience across sectors including, education, community services and mining.
Planning impactful events to raise awareness brings me immense satisfaction. Building bridges and fostering connections are the threads woven throughout my work. My podcast, "Talking Inclusion," amplifies voices that often go unheard.
When I'm not with the Network, I'm the P&C President at my children's school, fundraising and planning events to support their education. I also volunteer with the Hunter Volunteer Centre as their events coordinator.
Caring deeply and fiercely is at my core. I believe in the transformative power of words and the collective strength of people creating positive change.
Integrity, respect, inclusivity, and kindness are my guiding principles. I work with a strong sense of purpose and constantly learn from others who share that drive.
Katelyn Stokes
MANAGER
PKF Business Recovery and Insolvency
Katelyn is an insolvency and restructuring expert at PKF Accountants and Business Advisers. In her day-to-day role, Katelyn faces everything from fast-paced, complex legal proceedings, to disgruntled shareholders and creditors, to emotional former-employees of organisations that have become insolvent. Her daily work life is a mix of approaching situations with empathy, resilience, practicality and genuine interest, all polished with the professionalism that makes her great at her job. For Katelyn, keeping her cup full means not only being a Mum but also embracing her work-life and professional development and allowing herself to enjoy both without guilt.
Katie McCool
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Beam Bookkeeing
Katie is the Managing Director of Beam Bookkeeping. When it comes to understanding business strategy and operations, Katie McCool has it balanced. A business professional with a solid background in identifying and implementing successful processes and growth strategies, alongside having a passion for creating positive and efficient workplaces.
She has a keen eye for detail and is a stickler for ethical practice all whilst keeping the balance with a smile. Her mission is to get to know her clients businesses inside and out, manage the books in the most efficient way and ultimately give business owners the time to work on their business and not in it.
Liz Murray
FOCUS STRATEGIST
Edge of Possibilities
Liz is a master of seeing what people are capable of and mentoring and championing exceptional leaders to thrive in their work, relationships and in life. Over 20 years experience empowering leaders to achieve their success through creativity, innovation and collaboration.
Many Leaders get stuck working IN the business, with the day to day and are frustrated they don't have time to work ON the business and reconnect with their passion.
Liz helps you get unstuck and make massive progress toward where you want to be spending your time, while making sure everyone feels valued and loves their work.
Liz works with passionate professionals who are dedicated to continuous self improvement, who want to ensure they offer the best support to their team members as possible.
Myf Garven
PHOTOGRAPHER
Myf Garven - creative
Myf is a purpose-led Lifestyle & Architecture Photographer based in Newcastle. She captures moments as they transpire to communicate a soft, natural mood through candid imagery. She works discreetly to explore those in-between moments to create rich, intentional imagery. She loves partnering with local go-getters who have a deep desire to make a difference to their world, the world around them and beyond.
As a process-driven creative, she showcases the good work of architects, designers and purpose-led businesses through photography and design thinking. Her focus is on simple construction, responsible sourcing and authentic storytelling. Her talent lies in understanding my client’s unique vision and guiding them through a process of thoughtful design.
Omali Marshall
SENIOR TALENT ACQUISITION SPECIALIST
Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand
I am a seasoned Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist currently driving recruitment initiatives at Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand. With over two decades of experience in talent acquisition and human resources management, I bring a wealth of expertise to the table.
Over the years, I've had the privilege of working with renowned organizations such as Commonwealth Bank, Monadelphous, AMA South Australia, TfNSW and BAI Communications. During my seven-year tenure at the prestigious University of Newcastle (UON), I lead recruitment efforts across diverse domains, including finance, marketing, legal, IT, tech, engineering, and bio-tech both professional and academic positions. Additionally, I served as a Human Resources Business Partner, providing strategic HR support to the Research and Innovation Division and the Faculty of Business and Law.
I'm passionate about candidate experience, employer branding and recruiting, and I take pride in connecting top talent with impactful roles. As an alumnus of the University of Technology, Sydney, I hold a Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management, complemented by a Master of Human Resource Management from the University of Newcastle.
Beyond my professional pursuits, I'm also a seasoned mum of two energetic youngsters, who constantly remind me that managing talent acquisition is a piece of cake compared to negotiating bedtime routines and refereeing sibling squabbles. But hey, if I can handle a tantrum or two, I can handle any interview curveball…
Paula Rowlett
MANAGER OF CHARITY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Equi Energy Youth
Paula is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience across the non-profit, local authority, housing, and youth education sectors in both the United Kingdom and Australia. Currently serving as the Manager of Charity and Community Engagement at Equi Energy Youth, Paula leverages her extensive background to drive impactful community initiatives.
After taking a career break in 2016 to travel and explore the UK, Europe, and Australia, Paula relocated to Newcastle, NSW, in 2017. Her journey in youth and community work within Australia began with a volunteer position, quickly progressing to full-time roles that led to her appointment as the first female Sector Manager of PCYC Newcastle in 2021. Under her leadership, the club experienced a significant financial turnaround, shifting from a deficit to a surplus.
Paula is deeply committed to the empowerment of communities surrounding young people and is passionate about creating opportunities and support systems that enable them to achieve their fullest potential.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Paula lives in Newcastle with her husband and daughter. They all love exploring the amazing city, beaches, and restaurants that Newcastle has to offer.
Renée Longworth
FENG SHUI CONSULTANT
Renée Longworth
Renée is a dedicated professional with a commitment to assisting women in achieving their goals, both personally and professionally. Specializing in Feng Shui and having over a decade of experience, Renée provides her valuable services to clients locally, interstate, and internationally. Born and raised in Lake Macquarie, she has established roots in the community and is currently raising her own family here.
Renée's expertise lies in unlocking the potential of Feng Shui, a powerful tool that, while not widely recognized in the Western world, holds immense potential for improving circumstances related to wealth, health, and building harmonious relationships. She extends her services to businesses, helping them address financial challenges, enhance team dynamics, and optimize office and business space design for maximum success.
Renée's holistic approach also encompasses home design and renovation knowledge, ensuring that spaces are optimized to support the well-being of individuals and families. And also specializes in Fertility Feng Shui, offering support to those seeking to improve their chances of conception.
Renée's passion for her work and her comprehensive understanding of Feng Shui make her an asset to individuals and businesses of the area, looking to create positive and supportive environments for success and fulfillment.
Victoria De Marchi
SALES ASSOCIATE
Kapalua Advisory
Having spent the better part of her life working with people face to face and developing a strong skillset based around sales, problem solving, networking and business consulting, Victoria discovered the ideal environment in which to invest these passions.
As a consultant working within new & growing communities she enjoys becoming involved in the framework and development of those communities and assisting families through their property journey.
Victoria thoroughly enjoys a personal connection with her clients, after all it is entirely about their individual situation and future dreams that her work is based upon.