The Pride Business Association’s September Long Table Breakfast once again delivered a morning of warmth, collaboration, and conversation, even if the Sydney skies couldn’t quite decide between cool and warm.
Held at the vibrant Canva Space in Surry Hills, the event was guided by the welcoming presence of PBA Board Associate Alex Tinsley, who has become synonymous with setting the perfect tone for these monthly gatherings.
A cross-section of business brilliance
The room was filled with a diverse mix of members, each bringing unique expertise and energy to the table.
- Matt Pirozzi, Mortgage and Finance Broker, recently featured in our Member Spotlight here, is working to simplify the entire mortgage process and add value wherever he can.
- Sue Almeida, founder of Peak InnerWorks and PBA Board Associate, brought her wealth of experience in management consultancy, customer experience, and her active connections with the startup and entrepreneurial community.
- Harry Forsythe, Legal Counsel at Source Legal, shared insights from his work providing practical commercial legal advice, from contract reviews to mergers and acquisitions.
- Michael Rogers, Director of Love Property Australia, highlighted his strategic approach to real estate and passion for guiding clients in making smart property decisions.
- Immy Abdullah, Head of Content, Entertainment at Nine and PBA Engagement Director, also introduced Clouds Above, his business dedicated to amplifying great ideas through content creation and digital strategy.
- Annthony Rozario, of Photorozarism, spoke about leaving behind a communications career to create a business rooted in joy, hope, and kindness, offering durable keepsakes designed to bring lasting pleasure.
- Ludovic Lavergne, transitioning from finance to event logistics, particularly around his passion for live music. Ludo also expressed excitement about supporting Buy Rainbow 2025 (more about that later).
- Wesley Heron, of WHR Australia, shared his current focus on AI and infrastructure project management while also stepping into a full-time role with the Navy.
- Philippe Smets, founder of Chocolat Philippe, brought along his passion for sustainable, handcrafted chocolate, with 100% of retail profits going directly to sellers.
- Pina Brandi, Director of PB Property, spoke about her mission to simplify and empower the property buying journey, particularly for Australia’s migrant communities.
- Alex Tinsley, of Master Real Estate, rounded out the introductions by noting that every property in his portfolio is now leased, and he’s on the lookout for more.
Spotlight on Buy Rainbow
A key highlight of the morning was Annthony and Ludovic’s update on Buy Rainbow, Sydney’s LGBTQIA+ Small Business Fair. Returning in October 2025 at Paddington Town Hall, this community-driven event will once again showcase queer-owned businesses and celebrate diversity and entrepreneurship. Members were encouraged to spread the word to potential stallholders to ensure another vibrant line-up.
READ MORE: Become a Buy Rainbow Stallholder
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.
Canva Space: A hub with heart
Guests also learned more about the Canva Space, which provided its warm hospitality. More than just a café, Canva Space reinvests every dollar back into the community by offering free use of its venue and catering to nonprofits and social enterprises after 3pm each day. It’s a true example of community impact in action.
Join us next month
The Long Table Breakfast returns on October 7, once again at Canva Space. Don’t miss this chance to connect with LGBTQIA+ business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals, share ideas, and strengthen your network.
👉 Not yet a business member? Join today
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