Thrive Online: Women’s Digital Growth Series

An event series helping women-led businesses scale in a digital-first world.

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Build, scale and grow online

Delivered by Melbourne Innovation Centre as part of the Digital Solutions Program, this event series is designed for business owners, entrepreneurs, founders, and go-getters seeking real talk, fresh insights, and meaningful connections — all in celebration of International Women’s Day. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, boost your online presence, or connect with like-minded entrepreneurs who just get it, Thrive Online is your space to learn, share, and grow.
Be part of it

Speakers

Natassia Grace
Founder & CEO - Conserving Beauty
Melbourne event
Natassia Nicolao Grace is the Founder and CEO of Conserving Beauty, a pioneering beauty brand known for its waterless formulations and dissolving skincare technologies. Within a year of launch, the brand reached global traction with ranging at several prestige beauty retailers including MECCA, Space NK, and Cult Beauty.

Since inception, Natassia and Conserving Beauty have been recognised by countless impressive awards including Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 2024, Marie Claire UK Sustainable Innovation 2023, Woman Of The Future 2022, and Elle UK Future Of Beauty 2023 nominee by industry icon Isamaya Ffrench.
Frances Goh
Head of Community & Growth - One Roof
Melbourne event
Frances Goh is Co-Founder and Head of Community & Growth at One Roof. Frances oversaw One Roof's digital transformation in 2020 from bricks and mortar coworking to a fully digitised experience and has since onboarded over 1500 members across Australia and overseas. Frances is committed to elevating women in business and curates the One Roof member experience to ensure it is tailored to their unique needs.

Frances is an innovation expert, startup coach and champion of women-led businesses. She is experienced in building businesses and startups, mentoring founders and is passionate about solving the problem of the gender gap in business and entrepreneurship.
Sally Davies  
General Manager - Soloist, MYOB 
Melbourne event
Sally Davies General Manager of Soloist, MYOB Sally has been the driving force in building and launching the brand-new Solo by MYOB app. This mobile-first app, released in 2024, is geared around revolutionising business management for Australia’s 1.5 million sole operators, including freelancers, sole traders, and self-employed professionals.  

Sally wants to reshape the future of digital business management, ensuring sole traders and small business owners have the same level of innovation, efficiency, and support as large enterprises. By continuing to champion diversity, drive AI-powered solutions, and support small businesses, she is set to make a lasting impact on both MYOB and the broader industry. Before her time at MYOB, Sally has been a founder of multiple businesses of various sizes.
Jo ChunYan
Melbourne event
Jo ChunYan is a brand and packaging designer, author, and founder of Jo ChunYan Studio. With over 15 years of experience spanning global FMCG brands and conscious businesses, Jo helps product founders build brands that stand out and connect.

She specialises in rebranding, packaging design, and strategic visual identity across the wellness, lifestyle, food, and FMCG industries. An award-winning author of The Intuition Journal and co-host of The Brand Journey podcast, Jo blends intuition with strategy to create brands that leave a lasting impact. As a mentor with the Melbourne Innovation Centre’s Digital Solutions Program, she helps businesses develop brand identities that are authentic, compelling, and built for growth.
Stef Kerby
Founder & CEO - Celia Loves
Geelong event
Stef Kerby is the Founder of Celia Loves, a brand known for creating luxurious, affordable candles designed to be used every day. A former lawyer and mother of three, Stef turned her passion for scent into a thriving business after the birth of her first daughter, Hazel. What began as a creative outlet quickly grew into a recognisable household brand. 

Stef is deeply committed to empowering women, especially mothers, by providing opportunities for financial independence and meaningful employment. She’s also passionate about learning, most recently becoming a qualified gemologist after completing a diploma in gemology, and is constantly exploring new ways to grow her business. Believing in the power of community, Stef strives to "water where you grow" by nurturing local connections and giving back.
Merrin Schnabel
Founder - Madge Beauty
Geelong event
Merrin Schnabel is a high-profile Australian influencer, entrepreneur, speaker, and media personality. As a professional mindset, life, and business coach, she has worked with major brands like Lululemon, YSL, Mecca, and Mercedes-Benz. With over 20 years in the industry as an actress, model, stylist, and presenter, she founded Madge Beauty and the Geelong Women’s Business Club to inspire and empower women.

In 2019, Merrin launched the Geelong Women’s Business Club, which has since grown into a national platform hosting high-profile events. She is also a sought-after media commentator featured on Nine Network, Nine Honey, Today Show, Sunrise, The Age, and The Sydney Morning Herald.

Clarissa Harris
Managing Director - True Tribe
Geelong event
Clarissa Harris is the co-founder and Managing Director of True Tribe, a boutique creative communications agency based in Melbourne. Throughout her career, she has worked with over 300 brands across industries including fashion, tourism, government, lifestyle, and hospitality. Some of True Tribe’s notable clients include Lululemon, Made Group, St. Ali, Hard Yakka, and Toyota.

At age 22, she co-founded True Tribe alongside her husband, Tim Harris. The agency was born from a mix of creative passion and frustration—they saw a gap in the market for smaller agencies that could take a hands-on approach to projects. What started as a few collaborations quickly snowballed into a steady stream of referrals. Before long, they had built a dynamic team and established True Tribe as a thriving agency.  

In 2020, Clarissa launched Chchats, a personal brand and private consulting agency that led to her being shortlisted as a B&T 30 Under 30 Entrepreneur Finalist. She's also a mentor with the Melbourne Innovation Centre’s Digital Solutions Program, she helps businesses navigate the ever-evolving social media landscape with confidence.

Upcoming events

MELBOURNE [SOLD OUT]

Brand Building & Online Growth
Wednesday, March 19 2025
10:30am - 2:30pm
United Co., Fitzroy

FREE – Goodie bag, light refreshments, and coffee & tea provided.

GEELONG
[SOLD OUT]

Social Strategy & Tips for Growth
Friday, March 21 2025
11am - 2pm
Wurriki Nyal, Geelong

FREE – Goodie bag, light refreshments, and coffee & tea provided.

Why attend?

MELBOURNE

Brand Building & Online Growth
For founders, entrepreneurs and business owners ready to elevate their brand and online presence.

LEARN FROM EXPERIENCE
Hear from Natassia Grace (Conserving Beauty) as she shares her journey of building a purpose-driven brand, and Frances Goh (One Roof) on growing brands and communities.

GET INSIDER STRATEGIES
Get the ins and outs on brand growth and increasing your online presence from a powerhouse panel featuring Natassia, Frances and Sally (MYOB) diving into the tactics that drive brand success and growth.

FIND YOUR BRAND VOICE
Wrap up with a hands-on workshop led by Jo ChunYan, where you’ll define your brand’s voice and personality—so your audience listens, connects, and engages.

MAKE CONNECTIONS
Meet and network with like-minded founders, entrepreneurs, and business owners who are scaling their brands online.

GEELONG

Social Strategy & Tips for Growth
For founders, entrepreneurs and business owners looking to master social media presence and drive real results.

LEARN FROM LOCAL SUCCESS
Kick off with a keynotes from Stef Kerby (Celia Loves) and then Merrin (Madge Beauty) as they each share their journeys of building successful brands online through social media.

LEVEL UP YOUR SOCIAL STRATEGY
Dive into a hands-on workshop with Clarissa Harris (True Tribe) and gain practical, easy-to-apply techniques to enhance engagement, boost visibility, and confidently manage your social presence.

MAKE NEW CONNECTIONS

Walk away with the latest tools, strategies, and inspiration to make 2025 your most successful year online. Connect with like-minded business owners and founders from the Geelong region.

STAY AHEAD
Walk away with the latest tools, strategies, and inspiration to make 2025 to make your business stand out on social media this year.

Registration

🫶 SOLD OUT 🫶
Both events are now completely sold out —thank you for the incredible interest! To stay updated on future events, be sure to join our newsletter
Schedule
9:00 AM
Doors Open

Registration & Networking

9:45 AM
Intro & welcome

MC Kick Off Welcome

10:00 AM
Anaita's Presentation

Kick off the day with Anaita Sarkar, who will share actionable insights you can immediately apply to streamline your operations and boost your sales. With over 320,000 followers on TikTok, Anaita has become a go-to source for cutting-edge business strategies, tailored for even the busiest schedules.

You'll also get the chance to submit questions directly to Anaita with a live Q&A.

Anaita Sarkar
Founder & CEO of Hero Packaging
11:05 AM
Break

Network & Nibble Break - Fuel up and mingle during our brunch break. Enjoy a spread of bites and beverages. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, explore our exhibitor space, and discuss key takeaways from the morning session. Unwind, refresh, and prepare for the segments ahead.

12:00 PM
Harry's Presentation

Next up is Harry Sanders, the visionary behind Australia’s largest dedicated SEO agency, StudioHawk. Starting his business journey at just 17 while couch surfing, Harry has transformed his challenges into a source of inspiration.

Harry will provide actionable insights on leveraging SEO for sustainable business growth and making a significant impact in your community and industry.

Harry Sanders
Founder & Director of StudioHawk
12:45 PM
Panel

Be part of the conversation in a Q&A panel hosted by Jules Lund founder of Tribe with Anaita Sarkar, Harry Sanders and Caitlin Judd sharing their insights into which digital tools you should be using for your business.

See how these businesses have embraced digital transformation - and how you can learn from their strategies

01:45 PM
Networking

Make valuable connections with fellow entrepreneurs who share your vision and goals.

Key takeaways shared by the MC, followed by a 45-minute networking session in the main area, photo opportunities, and light refreshments. The event will conclude at 2:30 PM.

Connect, Learn, and Grow

Prepare to be amazed at Digital Day Out — a half-day event packed to the brim with actionable insights and takeaways! We understand that your time is precious, which is why we've  curated this experience to maximise the value you'll receive for investing in your business growth.

Why Join Us?

Choose to invest a day in yourself and your business's future. Join us at Digital Day Out, where you'll have the chance to:

🚀 Engage with like-minded individuals and industry leaders.
🚀 Learn from experts about actionable strategies and cutting-edge digital tools.
🚀Grow by applying what you've learned to drive your business forward.

we've got the answers...

What is Digital Day Out?

Digital Day Out is a unique half-day event designed to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners by focusing on personal and professional development. It's an opportunity to step away from daily operations and gain actionable insights and strategies in digital innovation, networking, and business growth. Scheduled to accommodate busy lifestyles,  the event ensures inclusivity and accessibility for all attendees.

Why should I attend?

If you're looking to invest in your personal growth, learn new skills, and connect with like-minded individuals, Digital Day Out is for you. It's specially crafted for those eager to work *on* their business, not just in it. Attendees will leave the event with tangible tools, a refreshed mindset, and strategies to implement directly into their businesses.

Who is this event for?

Digital Day Out welcomes all entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone interested in embracing digital technologies for growth. Offering a platform to learn, share, and influence the future of business with fresh perspectives.

What can I expect to take away from this event?

You can expect to leave with actionable insights, practical tools, and the motivation to apply what you've learned to your business. The event is designed to leave you feeling positive and inspired, ready to take on challenges and explore new opportunities with the support of Melbourne Innovation Centre and a community of forward-thinkers.

When and where is Digital Day Out taking place?

Digital Day Out will be held on Thursday, 27th June 2024, at The Round in Nunawading, Victoria.

How can I register?

Registration is easy! Simply visit our website's registration page, fill out your details, and secure your spot. Early registration is encouraged to guarantee your participation in this transformative half-day event.

Are there any discounts or early bird registrations?

Yes, we offer early bird registration discounts, however these closed May 2, 2024.

Who can I contact for more information?

If you have any further questions or need more information, please don't hesitate to reach out via the contact our team via events@melbourneinnovation.com.au

What is the cancellation policy for Digital Day Out?

We understand that plans can change, which is why we offer a flexible cancellation policy. If you need to cancel your registration, you can do so for a full refund up to one month before the event date. Cancellations made less than one month prior to the event will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee. Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations made within 7 days of the event. To cancel, please contact us by emailing events@melbourneinnovation.com.au

Can accommodations be made for attendees with special needs?

Absolutely. We are committed to making Digital Day Out accessible to everyone. If you have special needs, require assistance, or have accessibility concerns, please contact us in advance through our emailing events@melbourneinnovation.com.au. We will work with you to accommodate your needs and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience at the event.

How can I inform you about my dietary requirements?

We strive to cater to various dietary requirements to ensure all our attendees can enjoy the refreshments provided. During the registration process, you will find a section to specify any dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergies. Please fill this out, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs. If you have specific concerns or requirements not covered in the registration form, feel free to reach out to us directly through the contact form on our website.

How can I become a sponsor or partner with Digital Day Out?

We welcome partnerships and sponsorships from organisations aligned with our mission to empower and support entrepreneurs and small businesses. For sponsorship inquiries and to learn more about how your organisation can be involved, please contact our COO Tess - tess.melville@melbourneinnovation.com.au

Is there parking available at the Round? 

The Round offers convenient and free on-site parking facilities, ensuring easy access for all guests. The spacious car parks are just a short stroll away from our main entrance, making it a breeze to arrive for Digital Day Out. For more information, please visit the parking page here.

What's included in the goodie bag?

The digital goodie bag gives you access to three hours of personalised support through the Digital Solutions Program. This exclusive offer is available to new and qualifying businesses only.

Eligible businesses are those that haven't participated in Round 2 of the mentoring program and meet the following criteria:
- For-profit entities
- Located in Victoria
- Hold an active ABN
- Employing fewer than 20 full-time equivalent employees