The winners of the 2020 Telstra Business Women’s Awards have been announced! Now in its 25th year, the Telstra Business Women’s Awards recognises the most outstanding women who are helping reshape industries and transform the way we do business.

This year, we celebrate another set of inspirational female leaders across Australia for their hard work and dedication to their businesses and communities, and for helping pave the way for the next generation. I have chosen Margaret Williams from Tasmania to feature in our Sixties community.

Margaret Williams, CEO of St Helen residential care facility Medea Park, is the 2020 Telstra Tasmanian Business Woman of the Year. 

Ms Williams began her nursing career at age 18, finding her passion in the aged care industry and dedicating her time to caring for community members. As CEO of Medea Park, Ms Williams is responsible for the management and maintenance of care for more than 50 residents. 

Ms Williams also won the For Purpose & Social Enterprise Award, which celebrates leaders and employees of organisations making a positive difference to the world around them. Ms Williams has made a huge impact, delivering positive outcomes and creating an exciting future for Medea Park, its employees and residents. Her strategic, considered approach to business is balanced with her passion and empathy for her community. 

Also recognised as winners of the 2020 Telstra Tasmanian Business Women’s Awards were: 

• Small Business Award: Alison Flakemore, Director, Alison’s Garden and Landscape. Ms Flakemore has led her team to assist the Hobart community Tasmania with all of their garden, landscaping and excavation needs. 

• Medium & Large Business Award: Lisa McConnon, General Manager, Corporate Services, Enwave Australia. With more than 20 years’ managerial experience, Ms McConnon oversees all HR, IT and marketing functions, helping shape the utility company’s culture and strategy. 

• Public Sector & Academia Award: Catherine Murdoch, Executive Director Northern Cities, Tasmanian Office of the Coordinator-General. Ms Murdoch leads initiatives that aim to establish Launceston as Australia’s leading regional city. 

• Emerging Leader Award: Rachel Vasicek, Creative Director, Francesca. Ms Vasicek founded Francesca with her sister in 2013, selling jewellery at Salamanca Market, and has since driven the business’ digital marketing, design and operations as it has expanded across Australia. 

Congratulations Ladies!