If you are thinking of or in the process of applying for the 2025 Lord Mayor’s Women in Business Grant then this Panel discussion is designed for you.
A mix of previous recipients, past grant judges and the lead administrators will have a discussion around the key areas of writing a successful grant application including:
- Eligibility
- answering grant questions effectively
- knowing your audience
- supporting documentation
While this session will have a focus on the Lord Mayor’s Women in Business Grant, general and practical information on grant writing will be provided.
This workshop has limited spots. Don’t miss out!
Panelists
Sarah Yip, KEASE International and Leaders Lounge – Lord Mayor’s Women in Business Judge 2023 and 2024
As the CEO of the award-winning KEASE International and Leaders Lounge, Sarah leads a team of qualified consultants, facilitators & coaches who are entrusted to deliver leadership solutions globally.
Working with companies to elevate the capability of their leaders and amplify the results for their teams. Her businesses are recognised for their ability to deliver quality learning solutions and a ROI on capability development.
Sarah’s work today is a culmination of a career in banking and event management as well as qualifications in Business, Emotional Intelligence, Communication and Positive Psychology.
When she isn’t presenting to leaders around the world, you’ll find Sarah on a travel adventure with her husband and two children.
Amanda is the recipient of the Centenary Medal for business and winner of the Telstra Young Business Women Award (Qld) in 2000.
Barbara Spooner, Birds on Bikes – 2022 Grant Recipient
Barbara is an accomplished designer and entrepreneur with a passion for creating inclusive, high-quality products. As the founder of Birds on Bikes and the Ethical Edge Collective, she has successfully combined her expertise in graphic design with her commitment to ethical manufacturing. Barbara’s journey began with a vision to cater to curvy, plus-sized women who are passionate about cycling, leading her to create a brand that celebrates diversity and empowers women through stylish, functional cycling apparel.
Under Barbara’s leadership, Birds on Bikes has grown from a home-based business to an influential brand with in-house manufacturing in Brisbane. Her dedication to ethical practices has earned the brand Ethical Clothing Australia accreditation, a testament to her commitment to sustainability and fair labour practices.
Barbara’s experience extends beyond product design and manufacturing, as she is deeply committed to supporting the growth of local businesses through ethical production. Her brands, Birds on Bikes and Ethical Edge Collective, stand as examples of how businesses can thrive while upholding strong values.
Juanita Wheeler, Full and Frank – 2022 Grant Recipient
Juanita is a public speaking coach, speechwriter, and the Founder of Full & Frank. As the CEO and Head of Curation at TEDxBrisbane, she is dedicated to amplifying voices that need to be heard. A former recipient of the Lord Mayor’s Women in Business Grant, Juanita understands the nuances of creating standout proposals in a competitive environment.
With over 20 years of experience, she has coached more than 100 TEDx speakers, along with CEOs and entrepreneurs, to deliver impactful presentations. Juanita employs an evidence-based approach, drawing on principles of neuroscience and behavioral economics, to help clients effectively persuade their audiences. These skills are equally valuable in grant writing, where her experience on selection panels for grants and awards adds depth to her expertise.
Juanita holds three Master’s degrees, including two in business and one in social change leadership, underscoring her strong academic foundation. Her coaching style is both comprehensive and direct, offering clients the tools and insights needed to excel. Through online courses, 1:1 coaching, and strategic keynote development, Juanita empowers her clients to enhance their public speaking and strengthen their personal brands.
