The Pride Business Association’s October Long Table Breakfast brought together an inspiring mix of business minds, creative thinkers and community leaders, all over great coffee and conversation at the ever-welcoming Canva Space in Surry Hills.
As always, the event was beautifully hosted by PBA Board Associate, Alex Tinsley, who brings warmth, humour and a genuine passion for connection to every gathering.
A Morning of Insight and Inspiration
Among the guests was Matt Pirozzi, Mortgage and Finance Broker, who has just launched his new brand MAP Lending. The exciting new MAP Lending website will launch next week. Matt recently featured in our PBA Member Spotlight here and is working to simplify the entire mortgage process and add value wherever he can.
Immy Abdullah, Head of Content, Entertainment at Nine and PBA Engagement Director, also shared insights from the world of media and digital storytelling. Immy is the co-founder of Clouds Above, a creative agency helping businesses and creators find their voice in the digital landscape.
Also joining the discussion was Pina Brandi, Director of PB Property. With her trademark energy and commitment to client care, Pina explained how her team guides buyers through the often-daunting property process.
Rounding out the morning’s attendees was Philippe Smets, founder of Chocolat Philippe, whose passion for ethical, bean-to-bar chocolate had everyone’s attention (and tastebuds!). Philippe shared his mission to expand his artisan retail network, offering shops 100% of the profits from each bar sold, a truly sweet deal that supports small retailers and ethical craftsmanship alike.
And of course, Alex Tinsley, representing Master Real Estate, shared his wealth of experience in Sydney’s fast-moving property market. With every property in his portfolio leased, Alex is now looking for more listings, continuing his track record of matching the right people with the right homes through a blend of strategy, intuition, and old-fashioned service.
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Community in Focus: Canva Space
Guests were once again treated to the creative energy and community-minded spirit of Canva Space. More than just a stylish venue, Canva Space is a social enterprise dedicated to giving back — reinvesting all proceeds into supporting nonprofits and social enterprises. From 3pm daily, they offer free use of the venue to organisations hosting workshops, fundraisers and events aimed at making a difference.
With its adaptable layout and modern facilities, Canva Space continues to be the perfect home for the PBA’s Long Table Breakfasts — a place where creativity meets connection, and ideas take flight.
Looking Ahead: Buy Rainbow 2025 🌈
Excitement is building for Buy Rainbow 2025, returning on Saturday, October 25 at Paddington Town Hall. Sydney’s only LGBTQIA+ Small Business Fair celebrates queer-owned and operated enterprises across fashion, food, design, retail and professional services.
Coinciding with NSW Small Business Month and proudly supported by the City of Sydney, Buy Rainbow offers a unique platform for local businesses to shine — while showcasing the diversity, creativity and resilience of our community.
The Pride Business Association is encouraging all members to spread the word and invite potential stallholders to register. Whether you’re a business owner, shopper, or supporter, it’s the perfect opportunity to connect, discover, and celebrate LGBTQIA+ excellence.
Register as a stallholder or attendee here.
Check out the Business Directory
Another exciting update shared at the breakfast was the soft launch of the PBA Business Directory, now featured as its own dedicated section on our website. While the directory has always existed, it’s now easier than ever to explore and connect with our vibrant network of business members. Categorised for convenience, the directory allows anyone to search for services, suppliers, and professionals across industries. The Memberships Committee, made up of Mark Morrison, Sue Almeida, Immy Abdullah and PBA Director Jarrod Lomas, are currently working closely with members to ensure details are up-to-date. Want to see your business featured? Join as a Business Member today and be part of our growing directory.
Check out the Business Directory.
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Join Us Next Month
The next Long Table Breakfast will take place on Tuesday, November 4 again at the stunning Canva Space.
Whether you’re a returning member or new to the PBA, these breakfasts are the perfect way to build connections and strengthen our community of LGBTQIA+ professionals.
👉 Register now
👉 Not a Business Member yet? Join here.
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