Tonight, the Pride Business Association (PBA) and GLOBE Victoria joined forces once again for their monthly Virtual Networking Event. Hosted by the charismatic Angelo Baronessa, the session served as a vital bridge for small business owners and professionals across Victoria and New South Wales who can’t always make it to in-person meetups.

The atmosphere was one of authentic support, proving that virtual spaces can be just as impactful for expanding professional networks and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.Hosted by GLOBE’s Small Business Director, Angelo Baronessa, the event kicked off a new year and a new attitude.

Angelo is a Private Wealth Adviser who puts “people before products.” He specialises in making finance inclusive, particularly by improving life insurance access for those on PrEP or living with HIV.
Contact: Divergent Wealth

PBA Vice President Ricky Hamilton kicked off the evening with a flurry of upcoming PBA Mardi Gras+ program events, including special editions of Fruits and Lemons. He also highlighted the PBA Member Tote Bag opportunity for Fair Day, a great way for businesses to reach the community even if they don’t have a stall.

Everyone is welcome at the PBA! Check out our upcoming events.

Networking: Meet the Speakers

Here is who joined the circle:

Dr. Steve Jasper | The Jet Lag Guy

  • What he does: He’s a “one-stop shop to end jet lag,” using science (and cool light-therapy anti-jet-lag goggles) to help travelers.

  • Contact: www.jetlagguy.com.au | drsteve@jetlagguy.com.au | LinkedIn

Simon Dunn | Pink Flamingo Home Loans

  • What he does: A mortgage broker based in Merimbula who helps everyone from first-time buyers to investors across the eastern seaboard. He even offers special cashback for GLOBE members!

  • Contact: 0417 075 007 | info@pfhomeloans.com.au | Website

Sal & Lim | Oot And Aboot Outdoors Ltd

  • What they do: A brand-new charity creating inclusive, low-impact camping experiences for the LGBTQIA+ community to help people reconnect with nature away from the city.

  • Contact: hello@ootandabootourdoors.org.au

Rachel Bethune | Q Psychology

  • What she does: General Manager of a mental health clinic specialising in LGBTQIA+ affirming and neuro-affirming care. They offer a “QHelp” service for those facing financial hardship.

  • Contact: www.qpsychology.com.au | talk@qpsychology.com.au | Instagram

Neil Valentine | VEANDN Buyers

  • What he does: A Buyer’s Advocate who helps people find and buy property in Victoria. His mission? “Get back your weekends.”

  • Contact: neil@veandnbuyers.com.au | www.veandnbuyer.com.au

Kelly | ADGE Hotel Surry Hills

  • What she does: Sales for a bold, design-forward boutique hotel in Sydney that is “Welcome with Pride” accredited and perfectly located for Mardi Gras.

  • Contact: adgehotel.com.au (Check for GLOBE member promo codes!)

James Wright | HIR Strength

  • What he does: A strength-based coach who helps people understand themselves better so they can make choices they’re proud of. He recently launched a $7 self-guided coaching program.

  • Contact: hirstrength.com | LinkedIn | PBA Business Directory

David Denoux | Tradie Therapy

  • What he does: A counselor who provides a straightforward, “no-nonsense” space for people (originally targeted at blue-collar men) to talk about anger and addiction.

  • Contact: tradietherapy.com.au | LinkedIn

Immy Abdullah | Clouds Above

  • What he does: Clouds Above helps small businesses thrive through social media, video content, and SEO.

  • Contact: Reach out via me@immy.com.au or on the PBA Business Directory.

Why You Should Join Us Next Month

If you’re looking for a low-pressure, high-value way to grow your business while staying connected to your community, this is it. These events are free, entirely virtual, and filled with people who genuinely want to see you succeed.

Save the Date: The PBA X GLOBE Virtual Networking Event happens on the last Wednesday of every month.

Everyone is welcome at the PBA! Check out our upcoming events.

Follow us on Instagram | Facebook | Linkedin or subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to hear when full event details drop.

author avatar
Immy Abdullah Engagement Director
Immy Abdullah is a highly accomplished senior leader, bringing over 19 years of extensive experience across the television, production, marketing, and digital sectors. Currently, Immy serves as the Head of Content, Entertainment at Nine, where he is responsible for managing editorial schedules for Channel 9's flagship programs, including The Block and Married At First Sight. Beyond his professional expertise, Immy is deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and driving positive change within the LGBTQIA+ community. As co-chair of Nine Pride, he actively works to build connections and advocate for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies. Immy's profound passion for community engagement, combined with his strategic insight in creative business, makes him an invaluable asset to the PBA Board.