Innovation Cluster was proud to host the launch of the LEEF Program (Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Emotional Resilience and Financial Independence) last week at The SET Connected Futures Hub in Vasse. The event brought together program supporters, sponsors, and partners – including the City of Busselton and Bendigo Bank – to celebrate a new initiative designed to empower women to step forward with confidence into leadership, business, and career pathways.
At the launch, guests heard from the program’s inspiring facilitators:
- Leadership – Georgina Beniston, Georgina Beniston Coaching
- Entrepreneurship & Career Pathways – Tash Teakle, Innovation Cluster and Emma Willis, Rural Enterprises
- Emotional Resilience – Joanne Edmond and Nikki Higgins, Core of Wellbeing
- Financial Independence – Simona Hughes, Financial Utilities
Together, they highlighted how the four LEEF pillars will guide participants through a six-month journey of personal and professional growth – with entrepreneurship and innovation at the heart.
Jo Edmond from Core of Wellbeing reminded the audience of the collective role in driving change:
“As important attendees and supporters, your role is vital. Your presence today signals not only your belief in this program, but also your commitment to the wellbeing and empowerment of every woman here and who will benefit from this program. Together, we are planting seeds of resilience, collaboration, and change that will extend far beyond these walls.”
Unlocking Women’s Potential in Business & Innovation
Over the course of the program, up to 10 women from across the South West will access workshops, mentoring, and co-working space at The SET Connected Futures Hub. They’ll learn practical tools for launching or scaling a business, explore entrepreneurship as a career pathway, and strengthen financial literacy and leadership skills. Importantly, participants will form networks that reduce isolation and create new opportunities in the local economy.
Dr Natasha Teakle, Managing Director of Innovation Cluster, said the program addresses clear needs in the region – particularly around women’s participation in business and innovation.
“LEEF is more than a program – it’s a community-wide investment in resilience, economic participation, entrepreneurship and social wellbeing,” Dr Teakle said. “We invite partners who share our vision of empowering women and improving workforce equity to join us in this important work.”
Community Collaboration Driving Change
The Connected Futures LEEF Program is delivered by Innovation Cluster in partnership with female-led regional businesses – Financial Utilities, Core of Wellbeing, Rural Enterprises, and Georgina Beniston Coaching – and supported by the City of Busselton and Bendigo Bank. Together, these partners are committed to creating an inclusive environment where women can grow their entrepreneurial capacity, discover new career opportunities, and step confidently into leadership roles.
As the program begins, one thing is clear: LEEF is not just about building skills – it’s about empowering women to shape the future of business and community in the South West.
