Conversations that matter

It was an inspirational afternoon filled with great conversation, fine food, drinks and raffles as Alder successfully hosted the inaugural Alder Ladies Summer Lunch.

Over 100 women from all facets of the construction industry gathered at the breathtaking Hyde Paradiso in Surfers Paradise for the event signposted by a very special keynote speaker, Lauren Jane. Lauren is the founder of Find My Wild, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting women who have survived domestic violence to rebuild their lives and thrive.

With the theme ‘Conversations that Matter’, Lauren Jane delivered a poignant and powerful message inspiring the crowd with her story of how she left an abusive relationship of 14 years to rebuild her life with her three children. She has since gone on to write a 12-stage program for all humans and started a podcast with the aim of helping others to rebuild their life after trauma.

Lauren Jane says her message doesn’t only resonate with women who have experienced domestic violence but is for all women going through a tough time or looking to heal from their traumas so they can be the best versions of themselves.

“Everyone has a reality in their life that makes them uncomfortable, and we all hold negative emotions from whatever our belief systems are,” says Lauren Jane.

“I want to share awareness on how to rebuild your life after domestic violence and abuse or other traumas, otherwise you become a victim of your own story, and I’ve done that. I lived in victim mode for over 18 months and my life changed dramatically when I realised it was up to me to create and live my best life yet.”

Lauren Jane works as a Business Development Manager within the industry and says her experience has been more than positive. She has experienced more women in the workplace than she expected and more men in the workforce supportive of their female counterparts.

“My employer purchased a table to attend the event and brought along a male team member and two other male colleagues to demonstrate that domestic violence and abuse does not discriminate, and the importance of males supporting this cause,” says Lauren Jane.

“I have always felt supported within my role and within the industry itself and I feel my program with its elements that explore mental and physical health can be really beneficial for young women in the construction industry who are still finding themselves and their confidence.”

Alder’s HSE and HR Manager, Paul Fullwood says as women make up an important cohort within the company, with the number of females taking up positions doubling in the past five years, it is becoming increasingly important for Alder to create a space that engages the women in their business.

“Alder is not only trying to create a balance in our workplace, but we are championing diversity in a way that is authentic and genuine to foster gender equality,” says Paul.

“It’s all good and well to have women in the business but we need women in influential roles, and we need to nurture, encourage, and support these women in order to create a workplace that is balanced and where people’s rights are celebrated.”

All profits from the event were donated to Lauren Jane’s organisation. For more information on Find My Wild visit www.findmywild.com.au