Part of our mission at AFN is to support, build and elevate the role and impact of Aussie Founders - this month we’re focusing on women! We’ve profiled four Aussie female founders, as we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th.
Natalie Cook was born and is based in Queensland. She has a fantastic story to share and is the first Australian woman to compete at five Olympic Games. Since retiring, Nat has written a book, is an international award-winning wellness coach, and one of the world’s most sought after inspirational speakers.
What are some of the challenges of being a female founder?
Unconscious bias sometimes gets in the way! However, I find when they see my passion, commitment, and determination to succeed, it falls by the wayside. It does feel like we start a little behind the eight ball, though. Less and less as time goes on, though! Things are a changing, and I am proud to be a part of that change.
What positives of being a woman have contributed to your founder journey?
Resilience, compassion, and empathy! These are strong female characteristics that have helped me navigate the roller coaster of emotions and challenges on the journey of entrepreneurship.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
A day to sit back, take a deep breath, and celebrate all the work women are doing all over the world! Celebrating the impact we all have as a whole! Often we work hard on our own projects, and IWD gives us an opportunity to stick our head up, smell the roses, and uplift all women! Also, it is important to acknowledge and salute those that have gone before us and paved the way for us!
What advice would you give to other women on their founder journey?
Surround yourself with a team of uplifting, supportive people... whether that be family, friends, teammates, investors! This will be the core group to guide, protect and uplift when things get tough (and they will!) fail forward, fail fast, and when you find something that will impact the world, run hard with it!!!!!
We have an incredible network and community of Aussie Founders, and we’re grateful to these women for sharing their thoughts and advice with us. Please check out the profiles of our other female founders Amy Meyer, Kaitlyn Lieschke, and Samantha Taylor, and let us know what you’ve been working on!