Fostering Trust and Open Communication — Women's Federation For World Peace International

Written by: Anne Bellavance

On June 1, WFWP Australia hosted a forum on transformative leadership for established and emerging leaders, centered on the theme of “Fostering Trust and Open Communication.” The City of Monash supported the event. The event was brimming with energy, laughter, tears, and triumphs, as participants embarked on a journey of fearless leadership, deep human connections, and effective communication that builds unshakable trust. The event featured door prizes, awards, table talk, great food, and wonderful people. Attendees included mentors and mentees from the Leading into the Future mentor program, dedicated volunteers, and inspiring participants.

The forum was moderated by Dr. Shwetha Shankar, Co-Founder of Essor Business Hub (www.essorbusinesshub.com). Dedicated to empowering women and making a positive impact in their lives, Shwetha works to enhance business and leadership experiences across various sectors, bringing clarity and strategic approaches to achieve specific outcomes. With over a decade of experience delivering workshops and fostering experiential learning, she strives to equip business owners and teams with the skills and tools for success.

The Opening Address was given by Sylvia Coombe, Multicultural Commissioner. Ms. Coombe explained the importance of connecting with the multicultural communities and connected us together with her embracing smile. WFWP is a special multi-cultural community bringing everyone together!

Anne Bellavance, President of WFWP Australia and WFWPI Vice-President of Oceania & SE Asia, gave a presentation on “Great Leaders as Catalysts for Rewriting Futures and Transforming Situations.” A not-for-profit pioneer and volunteer for 43 years across Australia, Canada, and the USA, Anne is committed to fostering a “culture of heart” rooted in the motto, “Living for the Sake of Others.” Passionate about advancing women through “leadership of the heart,” Anne mentors women, supports community organizations, and advocates for those they serve.

Why do some people become masters at things while others don’t achieve their potential greatness? Winston Churchill was a great speaker, yet he stuttered from childhood. Helen Keller became a great writer yet lost her hearing and sight as an infant. What is this special “X” Factor that creates master and can take your performance to a whole new level? For the master, the “X” factor is how situations occur to them. The master can imagine creating a new future of possibilities and heightened performance.

Anne elaborated on the three “X” factors that enable master to do things others can't do and wouldn't imagine doing. Firstly, altering the way situations are perceived is key. When achieved, the future shifts, revealing opportunities where others see chaos. Secondly, masters excel in managing conversations that empower others to re-shape their future instead of living into a default future driven by past experiences. Thirdly, masters facilitate a collaborative approach, allowing others to contribute to, and shape the future. A great leader creates the space for that future to occur.

Next, Corrinne Armour, CSP, Author of Leaders Who Ask: Building Fearless Cultures by Telling Less and Asking More and Developing Direct Reports: Taking the Guesswork Out of Leading Leaders, spoke on “Fearless Leadership - Untapped Potential. Taking Action in Times of Challenge.” Entertaining, provocative and inspiring, Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), Corrinne is industry recognized for her experience and professional capability amongst Australia’s leading speakers. Underpinned by 20 years in and out of board rooms working with senior leaders, Corrinne brings Fearless Leadership® to life.

The audience was truly inspired by Corrinne’s energy, wisdom and courage. On her first night in a refugee camp on the Thai Myanmar border, Corrinne was filled with fear. Yet, a transformative moment occurred when a 4-year-old girl, who didn’t speak English, reached out to her with an outstretched hand and eye contact. This simple gesture transcended language barriers and connected them on a deeply human level, stripped of modern society's pretenses.

Corrinne asked, "Who can lead you out of fear and give you connection?" It's in these moments of connection that we find our best selves. A fearless leader, she explained, needs "weapons of mass connection." It starts with connection; trust holds it together and generates better outcomes. Fearless leadership is about having conversations that build trust and connection.

Heather Yelland, President and Founder of The Elevation Company, spoke on “Elevating Leadership - Leading by Heart.” With a background in arts, psychology, family systems theory, and business, Heather emphasized the importance of values-based leadership and human connection. She shared personal anecdotes and stressed the importance of trust, vulnerability, and authenticity in leadership.

The audience loved Heather’s humor, energy and insightful inspiration. As an intuitive and concise speaker and facilitator, she has a unique ability to engage with individuals in a large group, using stories to drive her message home. Heather emphasized that the human experience is the “why” for connection.

Despite having four degrees, Heather shared that raising eight children taught her more than any academic achievement. She reminded us that there is always time for what we value, stressing that we are human beings, not human doers. While we can approach business and leadership with our heads, our hearts won't be satisfied. The longest distance is between our
brain and our heart! People want to know, be loved, seen, heard and understood!

Heather's closing remarks were powerful: "Trust the universe (the Divine), trust yourself, and trust those around you. Trust begins with trusting myself. Energy from the heart makes you want to learn it. Be vulnerable and create space for others to do the same. Be an authentic leader, living the life you were born to make. Be all of you!"

Lydia Tesema, Conversationalist, Moderator, Youth Programs Developer, Community Engagement Consultant, and founder of “Below The Surface,” presented on “Heart-Driven Leadership: Cultivating Trust and Unity Across Diverse Communities.” Passionate about inspiring the next generation to be purpose-driven, Lydia uses the power of connection, communication and education to make a unique impact on the world. Lydia emphasized that emerging leaders often don’t see themselves as leaders and shared her own experience of overcoming fear standing before us.

As a first generation Australian, she highlighted the importance of established leaders creating opportunities for others. She stressed the need for safe spaces where new Australians feel accepted, fostering collaboration and allowing them to gain experience. Lydia believes sincerity resonates with people and that leaders should cultivate trust through transparency, integrity and empathy. Being a bridge means recognizing your privilege and creating access for others. Be sincere and be the bridge!

The event also featured an awards ceremony celebrating those who have shown fearless leadership and built trust and love. Four outstanding leaders received the prestigious Global Women Peace Ambassador award for their exemplary peace-building and values-focused leadership. Additionally, three organizations received the Global Partner Award for their work alongside WFWP in realizing the United Nations Global Development Goals, particularly Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals.

One of the most heartfelt moments was the awards ceremony that followed the presentations, where WFWP celebrated those who have dared to lead without fear, those who have shown that trust and love are the foundations of true leadership. Congratulations to all the awardees, your courage and dedication inspire us all.

Four outstanding leaders received the prestigious Global Women Peace Ambassador award for their exemplary peace-building and values-focused leadership. These ambassadors, from diverse sectors and walks of life, are dedicated to creating a global community of peace through WFWP’s principle of “living for the sake of others.” The award honors their leadership, achievements and service, recognizing their efforts to promote reconciliation, overcome barriers and build peaceful communities.
Awardees:

Gianna Lucas - Co-Founder and CEO at Happow.
Katie Edwards - Best-selling author of SOCIAL IMPACT and is currently working on her second book release.
Samantha Bing - Manager of Program and Community Engagement at Cerebral Palsy Alliance, a Board Member of Saving Animals from Euthanasia, volunteers at St. Vincent de Paul Society, and is Co-Founder at Homeless Christmas Drive.
Dr. Catherine Norton – CEO and Founder of Heal with Laser, a medical supply company of high-powered laser therapy devices for pain management.

Global Partners, united by shared values, are committed to promoting reconciliation, overcoming barriers and building peace. This year, three organizations received the Global Partner Award. The award honors the achievements and efforts of the organization for working alongside WFWP in realizing the United Nations Global Development Goals, particularly Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals.
Awardees:

Fijian Community Association Victoria (FCAV) – partnering with WFWP for the Melbourne Pasifika Festival.
Kickass Buddy Coaching – partnering with WFWP in the GWPN Planning Committee, the VIC Advisory Committee and the WFWPI UN Regional Office.
New World Leaders Institute – partnering with WFWP in the GWPN Planning Committee, and as a mentor in the Leading into the Future mentor program.

Anne Bellavance expressed her gratitude for the incredible team of dedicated women in WFWP’s Global Women’s Peace Network planning committee. Special thanks were extended to Dr. Shwetha Shankar, Patricia Vaz, Preetah Bolaky, Odri Fernandes, and the volunteers who made the event possible.

Participants reflected on the event with enthusiasm:

“Absolutely loved the atmosphere, connecting with all the lovely leaders that were there. It really was a wonderful day filled with tears, laughter and triumphs. Look forward to many more.” – Tua
“Such a truly fantastic day and wow I’m still in awe at all the beautiful women in the room who were so kind and driven to GO HIGH with their passions. Thank you for a magical experience!!!! Let’s do it again.” – Katie
“A day filled with courage, deep connection and heartfelt sharing.” – Helen
“Such a phenomenal day celebrating women leaders and leading with love. Thank you for bringing us all together.” – Shwetha

The event encapsulated the essence of fearless, heart-driven leadership. Each moment was a nugget of wisdom, reminding attendees that leadership is about showing up, reaching out, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued and heard. The concept of “Yutori,” the power of pause, was emphasized, encouraging participants to breathe, reflect, and embrace the spaces between actions where life truly happens.

The day was a testament to the power of community, authenticity and heart in leadership. Participants left with unforgettable memories, transformative experiences and a renewed commitment to leading with love, pausing with purpose and acting with integrity. The Global Women’s Peace Network Assembly is an inspiring event for any leader seeking strategies in an ever-changing world while connecting with like-minded individuals. Join this vibrant community to be inspired, motivated, and taught.

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Petition launch to Implement Clare’s Law nationwide:
As we continue to push boundaries and advocate for meaningful changes, we invite you to join the movement to advocate for Clare's Law by signing the petition found in the link below. Your support is crucial as we work towards safer communities and empower individuals against domestic violence. To find out the why and the how, follow the link below. Together, we make a difference!
Petition Link: https://www.change.org/Clares_Law

With Support from:

City of Monash. https://www.monash.vic.gov.au/