A Night of Glamour, Connection, and Recognition: WCEI National Awards Gala Dinner 2025
On Friday, 5 September 2025, the WCEI community came together in the heart of Melbourne for an unforgettable evening of celebration at the National Awards Gala Dinner. Hosted at the elegant RACV Club, Bourke Street, the night was a glittering occasion that honoured excellence, inspired connection, and celebrated the extraordinary contributions of women leaders across Australia.
Red Carpet Arrival
Guests arrived to a glamorous red carpet welcome, with drinks and conversation, setting the stage for a night filled with anticipation and celebration. As members and guests mingled, the atmosphere was one of excitement and pride — a chance to come together as a community to recognise the remarkable achievements of women who lead with courage, creativity, and vision.
Words That Inspired
The official proceedings opened under the gracious hosting of Christina Chia, WCEI Victorian State President and our MC for the evening. Christina set the tone with elegance and warmth, guiding the celebration with her signature poise. This was followed by an inspiring address from Liz Ward, WCEI National President, who spoke with passion about the theme of Celebrating Excellence. Liz reflected on the strength of the WCEI community, reminding us of the importance of connection, support, and collaboration in building a future where women’s leadership continues to thrive.
We were honoured to be joined by Dr Marie-Christine Oghly, World President of FCEM, and Diane Tompson, VP Asia, FCEM, who both delivered powerful messages reinforcing the global importance of networks such as WCEI and FCEM. Their words highlighted the transformative power of women entrepreneurs coming together across borders to share knowledge, support, and opportunity.
Celebrating Our Award Winners & Global Recognition
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2025 WCEI National Awards, recognising outstanding female entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry leaders. Each award celebrated women who have not only excelled in their fields, but also uplifted their communities and advanced the visibility of women in leadership.
🌟 The Lorraine Martin AO Award
Recipient: Busi Faulkner, Home Care Nurses Australia
Busi has transformed Australia’s home care industry, building a $20m+ annual revenue for-purpose business that now delivers services across five States. Her commitment to equity in healthcare and groundbreaking solutions has revolutionised the sector and set new standards of excellence. Busi will now represent Australia as a nominee for the FCEM Inspiring Entrepreneur Award, taking her impact onto the global stage.
🌿 The Shirley Randell AO Award
Recipient: Deborah Wace, Churchill Fellow, Fabric Designer, Ecological Activist, Plant Advocate, and Professional Printmaker (Tasmania)
Deborah embodies the role of being a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Through her art and activism, she communicates globally the plight of endangered botanica and the environment. Her creativity, collaboration, and international focus reflect an inspiring commitment to sustainability and social impact. Deborah will now represent Australia as a nominee for the FCEM Social or Environmental Award.
💻 The Digital Innovation Award
Recipient: Kelly Slessor, The E-Commerce Tribe
Kelly is a leading expert and disruptor in digital transformation, profoundly changing how we experience online shopping. Recognised as the Amazing Women in E-Commerce Leader in 2024, she also co-founded the Digital Inclusion Project, a global initiative bridging the digital divide. Kelly will now represent Australia as a nominee for the FCEM Digital Innovation Award.
🌍 The Dr Noel Waite AO Award
Recipient: Andrea Plawutsky, Amplify Me
Andrea has reignited connections between WCEI members and their FCEM counterparts, fostering global collaboration and amplifying women’s voices across borders. Her leadership, vision, and deep desire to connect women in business reflect the essence of international sisterhood. Andrea will now represent Australia as a nominee for the FCEM Yvonne Foinant Award of the Year.
💫 Inaugural WCEI Champion Award
Recipient: Tracy Sheen, The Digital Guide
A passionate advocate for women in business, Tracy authentically embodies the values of WCEI. Known for her generosity, encouragement, and tireless advocacy, she inspires and supports fellow members while championing their ambitions alongside her own.
Each of these remarkable women exemplifies the very best of Celebrating Excellence, the theme of this year’s Forum and Gala. Their stories remind us that leadership, innovation, and generosity can create ripple effects far beyond any single industry.
As our national award recipients step forward to represent Australia at the 2025 FCEM International Awards, we are proud to know that their influence will continue to shine on the world stage.
👉 Learn more about the WCEI Awards here
✨ A Moment of Global Recognition
At our Awards Gala Dinner, we were also honoured to celebrate a moment of international recognition. Our valued partners, the International Alliance of Women (TIAW), announced two of our members as recipients of the prestigious World of Difference Awards in the Entrepreneurship category.
We are beyond thrilled to share that Liz Ward, WCEI National President, and Janis McKenna, WCEI Tasmania member and Past President, have both been recognised on the world stage for their outstanding leadership, innovation, and impact in entrepreneurship.
This remarkable honour is a proud moment for Liz, Janis, WCEI, and indeed Australia — showcasing once again the global influence of women in our community. 🌏💫
A Community That Shines
Beyond the awards, the evening was also a celebration of connection. Members from across Australia came together to share in each other’s success, reflect on achievements, and build relationships that will continue long after the last song was played.
The presence of Dr Marie-Christine Oghly added a special significance to the night. Having the World President of FCEM in the room reinforced WCEI’s strong global ties and the opportunities for Australian members to connect with women leaders around the world.
The WCEI National Awards Gala Dinner reminded us of the extraordinary impact women can have when we lead, support, and celebrate one another.
🌟 As we look ahead, we encourage you to start thinking about yourself or another WCEI member who deserves a spotlight moment in 2026. Our awards are about recognising excellence, and often it takes a gentle nudge from a peer or colleague to put forward the names of those doing extraordinary things in business and leadership.
✨ Who in your network inspires you? Who embodies the courage, innovation, and generosity that WCEI stands for? Perhaps it’s you.
Together, let’s ensure the incredible women in our community continue to be celebrated on the national and global stage.
