Casual, engaging and warm
“The warmth in the room. How you effortlessly move around the room and make everyone feel special,” was one Alumnus answer to the 2024 Alumni Dinner feedback form question, ‘what stood out for you?’. Caroline Pilot commented, “this year felt more casual and engaging between everyone there” and Adrienne Hearn noted that she “spoke to some really interesting women.”
The venue was lovely. The food was terrific. Although year after year, what matters most when it comes to the annual Alumni Dinner is being able to connect with a bunch of great women and gender diverse people who met through my KickStarter and Accelerator programs.
Building connections: A snapshot of the community
Prior to the evening’s 6:30pm dinner, the Angliss Restaurant buzzed with energy as pre-booked headshots commenced. Photographer Shaney, a familiar face to the Take on Board alumni, then expertly guided the group outside.
From the ground-floor vantage point, Shaney captured a lively group photo of approximately 35 attendees, part of the larger 200-strong alumni. The atmosphere was filled with friendship and laughter, a perfect start to the evening.
Popular and important
The Welcome to Country is a popular and important part of the night. “I love it”, “I support it”, and “Thank you generous Aunty” where just some of the comments shared by the group.
This year I again booked Wurundjeri Elder Julieanne Axford through the Wurundjeri Corporation, who spoke about the history of the Wurundjei Woi Wurrung.
Mix and mingle: Table switcheroo!
Once the first course was enjoyed, it was time for a little ‘table switcheroo’! Everyone was game to move around, shuffling to new seats. It was a great way to break the ice and get everyone chatting with someone different.
Wrapping up with board marketplace
Board marketplace is an important part of any Take on Board event, whether it be the dinner or other events such as the Take on Board breakfasts (check the events calendar). Many have discovered their next board role through a Take on Board event!
“Anyone have a board role they’d like to advertise?” I had called out to the room. “Or does anyone want to advertise themselves for a board role?”
I love board marketplace. Not only do we get to hear about new board roles, we also get to find out about each other’s board roles and boardroom expectations and changes.
Continue to meet, connect and have fun…
There are a number of ways you can maintain connections. Use the phone numbers and email addresses exchanged on the night (they’re also in the dinner booklet).
The alumni have access to the very active wider Take on Board community through:
These groups play a big role in supporting our boardroom journeys.
The Take on Board podcast sits at the core of this community. It’s where I explore topics suggested by community members. I announce events and special opportunities. You can subscribe through your favourite podcast app. I would love it if you would share an episode with a friend who might be interested. Ratings and reviews are also welcome.
