Fostering Global Connections: WCEI Partners with ASEAN-Australia Centre in Tasmania
Fostering Global Connections: WCEI Partners with ASEAN-Australia Centre in Tasmania
Women Chiefs of Enterprises International (WCEI) recently hosted a special breakfast event in Hobart in collaboration with the ASEAN-Australia Centre, bringing together influential business leaders, policy makers, and trailblazing women entrepreneurs for a powerful morning of Conversation and Connection.
This event formed part of WCEI’s broader national partnership strategy to foster meaningful relationships that create opportunities for our members and build pathways into international markets. The ASEAN team were introduced to WCEI Tasmania through staff at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Hobart, with whom WCEI members have had long standing relationships.
By partnering with the ASEAN-Australia Centre – a new initiative announced by the Prime Minister at the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in 2024 – WCEI is proud to support Australian women in business to grow their knowledge and connections across Southeast Asia.
Held at the Athenaeum Club on June 19th and co-ordinated by WCEI Tasmania President Miriam Coleman, the event was designed to spark rich discussion around export opportunities in the ASEAN region, share experiences, and explore how both organisations can collaborate to support business growth.
Guests were treated to insights from Fiona Hoggart, Head of the ASEAN-Australia Centre, who outlined the Centre’s vision and key pillars: Southeast Asia literacy, economic linkages, education, and cultural connections. She invited input from women leaders on the ground about what support they need to succeed in ASEAN markets.
WCEI National President Liz Ward welcomed guests on behalf of the national board, reinforcing the value of collaboration between business and government to drive international engagement. Diane Tompson, CEO of Novaris and World Vice-President Asia of FCEM, shared a compelling story of her export journey and encouraged guests to consider the unique advantages Tasmanian businesses hold in connecting with island nations in the region.
The breakfast was attended by representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the ASEAN-Australia Centre, and a diverse mix of WCEI members and guests, creating a dynamic platform for ideas, introductions, and future possibilities.
From questions around cultural literacy to discussions on tariff-free access and regional proximity, the conversation underscored the strategic importance of Southeast Asia for Australian businesswomen ready to expand their horizons.
A special acknowledgment goes to the Athenaeum Club, our long-standing partner and the gracious host of this event. Established in 1889, the Club has been a cornerstone of Hobart’s professional and social landscape. Notably, in 2019, the Athenaeum Club embraced inclusivity by removing gender-based restrictions from its constitution, allowing women to become full members and participate fully in the Club’s activities.
WCEI is proud to be deepening our engagement with the ASEAN-Australia Centre and DFAT, and we look forward to future initiatives that enable our members to thrive on the global stage.