International Women's Day: From Dreamers to Doers

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a chance to acknowledge the achievements and challenges of women and look at how they are shaping the future.

Throughout history, they have blazed new trails and shaken up norms in striving for equality. Today, the journey continues, with championing women in leadership and pushing for greater representation in the business world.

To celebrate IWD (Saturday 8 March), we’re spotlighting inspiring entrepreneurs in Victoria who are making an impact across business and paving the way for meaningful change and future leaders.

NLA Trucking – Nicole Appleton

I wanted to create a business that not only empowers women but also provides jobs and training for Indigenous people in the industry. I wanted to challenge stereotypes and show that women, especially Indigenous women, can thrive in any field they choose.

Nicole Appleton has never shied away from hard work. Her hands-on approach transformed a solo trucking gig into a growing enterprise. Now, as the founder of NLA Trucking, Victoria’s only Aboriginal female-owned plant hire business, she is driving her success forward.

Nicole grew up seeing the challenges her community faced, especially when it came to finding career opportunities. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, she noticed the lack of representation in transport and logistics, which motivated her to create a path for herself and others.

‘Growing the company has been a journey of challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers, proving that women, especially Indigenous women, can thrive in male-dominated fields.’

Nicole has been part of the trucking industry since 2016 and is proud of the meaningful contribution she is making, as well as forging a path for future generations.

‘I wanted to create a space where our voices are heard, where we have a seat at the table, and where we can make a real impact. It’s been rewarding to see my business create jobs, offer training, and help my community. It’s a lasting change for both the industry and the people around me.’

Nicole has built her career in transport with skill, confidence, and a strong support network. NLA now has a fleet, of over 15 pink-logoed trucks, that stand out on highways as a symbol of her success. She's proud to see Indigenous employees thrive and more women entering the industry.

Looking ahead, Nicole hopes to see more women leading in industries like transport, with NLA trucking as an example of how to break down barriers. Nicole believes that mentoring and training programs can provide women with the skills they need to succeed in the industry, and the confidence to face any issues.

Starting a business isn’t easy, but Nicole has some wisdom for women ready to dive in.

‘Stay confident, trust your instincts, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back. The journey will have challenges, but resilience and a strong support network will help you grow. Learn from your mistakes and stay true to your vision and values.’

Afro Aussie Women in Business – Patience Rabai

I believe empowering women strengthens communities. Women in business change lives, uplift their families, create jobs, and grow the economy. I wanted to be part of that change.

Patience Rabai, founder of Afro Aussie Women in Business (AAWIB), is driven by the desire to help women speak up, stand out and reach their business goals. Her passion comes from building her business from the ground up, while overcoming self-doubt and a lack of support.

Patience was eager to build relationships and learn from business leaders. She often attended networking events, expos, and workshops, but noticed very few other African women in the rooms. Aware that there were many talented and ambitious African Australian women running businesses, she engaged with her community to understand what was holding them back. She realised that the systems were not designed with them in mind.

‘If we waited to be invited, we'd always be underrepresented. We needed to create our own platform—a space where African Australian women could connect, learn, and thrive together.’

Patience’s journey to creating AAWIB has not been easy. She has been underestimated and has had to break into established, often male-dominated, business networks and spaces. Having built her credibility and connections, she now uses her experiences to push for change and help others.

‘Every time I see a woman go from doubting herself to confidently running her business, I know this work matters. And that’s what keeps me going.’

Her greatest joy comes from knowing that AAWB is making a difference, creating a network of success stories—one woman, one business at a time. Patience is proud that African Australian women in business are becoming more visible.

‘The biggest impact is changing the narrative—African Australian women in business are no longer invisible. We are leaders, innovators, and changemakers.’

Looking to the future, Patience wants more women in leadership, thriving women-owned businesses, and increased access to funding opportunities. She has a vision to expand AAWIB’s impact nationwide and globally, ensuring that no African woman in business feels alone.

‘I hope women stop playing small—I want to see them take bigger risks, scale their businesses, and claim their space at decision-making tables. I’m excited to be part of the movement shaping the next generation of women entrepreneurs!’

Ovum – Dr Ariella Heffernan-Marks