The inaugural Women in Sustainability Summit in Naarm/Melbourne delivered two vibrant, thought-provoking days that brought together more than 65 emerging and established leaders committed to shaping a fairer, greener future.
Across the summit, participants leaned into the realities of leading during rapid climate disruption and sector-wide transformation—from shifting ESG standards and systems thinking, to co-leadership models, neurodiversity, wellbeing, burnout, big emotions, menopause, the role of AI, and the value of mentorship in sustaining long-term impact.
A standout moment was WELA’s partnership with Impact X to host a workshop on Leading for Regenerative Impact. This was facilitated by WELA Leadership Programs Director Carli Leimbach with WELA Mentor Justine Page and WELA Alumni & WWF Chief Regenerative Officer Nicole Forrester. The session invited participants to slow down, reconnect with purpose, and rethink leadership as the practice of creating the conditions for people and systems to thrive.
Together, we explored a shift from seeing organisations as machines to viewing them as living systems—where health, interdependence and adaptability matter just as much as productivity. Through paired reflections and an introduction to six regenerative patterns drawn from nature, the group experimented with practices that cultivate energy, creativity, clarity and coherence — not just individually, but across teams and organisations navigating uncertainty and change.
The Summit blended inspiring keynote conversations, intimate fireside dialogues, hands-on workshops and rich peer-to-peer learning. What stood out most was the honesty, courage and generosity that filled every room—a reminder of the strength that emerges when women come together to learn, challenge the status quo, and uplift one another.
A huge thank you to everyone who helped shape this beautiful first Summit experience, and a special shout-out to all the WELA Alumni who showed up so openly and shared their wisdom throughout the two days.