An afternoon that left me feeling energised and grateful
I recently had the pleasure of attending The Click East - Women in Business ladies’ lunch.
There’s something special about walking into a room full of women who are focused on building, leading, creating, juggling, and working hard to grow a business.
The energy in the room was immediate, with conversations easily started and lots of laughter. It didn’t feel like forced networking.
The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and being down at the beach is always a perfect location. A big thank you to the team at Bucks Bistro for providing a delicious three-course lunch.
And of course, these events don’t just happen on their own. The sponsors behind the scenes make it possible for local businesses to get together, and that kind of support really matters. Thanks to Forsyth Barr, Drumm Nevatt Associates, Eastern Times, Barfoot & Thompson Howick, Bathurst Brown Design and Marketing Baker.
Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson
One of the highlights of the afternoon was an exclusive Q&A with Auckland’s Deputy Mayor, Desley Simpson.
Listening to her speak about leadership, especially in the current economic and social climate, felt both grounding and motivating.
She spoke about resilience and staying on track even when things around you take a different course. As a business owner, I know that feeling well.
Desley reminded us that empathy isn’t optional, it’s essential. Leadership isn’t just about making decisions; it’s about how those decisions might affect others. Regardless of whether you’re leading a city or running a small business, the community you serve has to come first.
And as someone who works closely with small and medium-sized business owners, this message resonated with me, because we’re all trying to create and build something for other people.
Photo: Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson, with the organiser of The Click East, Bo Burns
For me, this didn’t just feel like a networking event.
It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new people, exchange ideas, and be reminded that none of us is working in our businesses alone.
There’s something incredibly powerful about being in a room full of inspirational women who understand the highs, the risks, the second-guessing, and the wins.
I left feeling inspired, encouraged, and proud to be part of the thriving business network in East Auckland.
Sometimes, the most valuable part of your business isn’t coming up with another strategy - it’s the room you put yourself in.
