Company: Board Coaching Institute, Bentleigh, VIC
Company Description: Board Coaching Institute
Nomination Category: Company / Organization Categories
Nomination Sub Category: Company of the Year - Diversified Services - Small
 Nomination Title: Board Coaching Institute
- Which will you submit for your nomination in this category, a video of up to five (5) minutes in length about the achievements of the nominated organization since 1 January 2022, OR written answers to the questions for this category? (Choose one):
Written answers to the questions
- If you are submitting a video of up to five (5) minutes in length, provide the URL of the nominated video here, OR attach it to your entry via the "Add Attachments, Videos, or Links to This Entry" link above, through which you may also upload a copy of your video.
- If you are providing written answers for your submission, you must provide an answer to this first question: Briefly describe the nominated organization: its history and past performance (up to 200 words):
Total 200 words used.
In 2002, I relocated to Australia with three suitcases to join [REDACTED FOR PUBLICATION] the world's largest financial services company. By 2004, I had left my successful corporate career with an "Employee of the Year" award to establish my coaching firm, Accelerate Now Pty Ltd, which became the Board Coaching Institute. Founded during COVID-19 lockdowns, the company trains and coaches a diverse range of executives who want to join company boards and be appointed to the most senior roles in corporate leadership opportunities.
The business world is transforming, but there is a need for more inclusive changes. Early in my career, as a young woman in the predominantly male financial services industry, I faced persistent gender bias. Over two decades, my perspective evolved as I established my coaching business to work with executives and boards. I noticed a pattern of men having advantages over women despite their level of expertise. I encountered barriers my male peers did not face, and this fueled my passion to ensure everyone was heard and valued in the boardroom. The shift from traditional business norms to a diverse and inclusive boardroom environment promotes fairness and creates a more even playing field based on skills and abilities.
- If you are providing written answers for your submission, you must provide an answer to this second question: Outline the organization's achievements since the beginning of 2022 that you wish to bring to the judges' attention (up to 250 words):
Total 249 words used.
Accomplishments since 2020 include:
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Created a business from scratch while home-schooling two children during COVID lockdowns.
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Published an Amazon bestselling book (2020).
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Received a Silver STEVIE in the Women in Business Awards (2023).
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Identified by Auspreneur magazine as a top leadership coach in Australia (2023).
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Invited to contribute to a professional industry body magazine article (2024).
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- If you are providing written answers for your submission, you must provide an answer to this third question: Explain why the achievements you have highlighted are unique or significant. If possible compare the achievements to the performance of other players in your industry and/or to the organization's past performance (up to 250 words):
Total 249 words used.
The Board Coaching Institute is dedicated to enhancing diversity in Australian boardrooms by equipping women and underrepresented groups with the skills and knowledge needed for board roles via the comprehensive, evidence-based Board Success System. This program aims to improve boardroom access by raising competency standards and ethical behaviour among board members. This program helps executives define and communicate their value proposition, address biases, and achieve board positions. Additionally, the Institute fosters a supportive network through the "Board Stars Community" and an "Inner Circle" forum, offering a community for professionals to connect. In contrast to traditional pathways that often require lengthy volunteer commitments and lack customisation, the Board Coaching Institute provides a practical and personalised approach to obtaining paid board positions.
The Board Coaching Institute, with its unique approach, has made significant strides in enhancing diversity, empowerment, and business practices within Australian boards. This approach, as highlighted in the 2023 Board Diversity Index report and the AICD Gender Diversity Progress Report, sets the Institute apart from others in the industry. These reports underscore the prevalence of homogenous boards in Australia, which still falls short of international diversity standards.
By disrupting traditional boardrooms and implementing effective diversity programs by recognising the link between diversity and innovation, there is the chance for fairer and more equitable representation in higher positions of power. These efforts empower marginalised candidates to overcome self-doubt and navigate the diversity paradox, ensuring they can get to the top of their profession without being limited by a glass ceiling.
- You have the option to answer this final question: Reference any attachments of supporting materials throughout this nomination and how they provide evidence of the claims you have made in this nomination (up to 250 words):
Total 91 words used.
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