The March instalment of the Globe x PBA Virtual Networking series proved once again that while the digital world is vast, the community remains tightly knit. This month’s session brought together a diverse group of entrepreneurs and professionals to share their business journeys, navigating everything from the complexities of accessibility in events to the science of overcoming jet lag.
With regular host Angelo enjoying a well-deserved break in Singapore, the virtual room was expertly led by Vikas Raheja, Globe Victoria’s Strategic & Engagement Director.
Vikas, who brings over 16 years of experience in Wealth Management and Superannuation, is also a prominent voice in the Melbourne community with the “Let’s Talk, Melbourne” podcast.
Featured Speakers & Businesses
The session featured a “round the virtual table” introduction where guests shared their current projects and future goals:
Sue Wickham (Sue Wickham Consulting): An event management specialist with a critical focus on accessibility. Sue is preparing for a specialized training session in Melbourne this May, designed to help organizations view their events through an accessibility lens, from registration and marketing to venue logistics.
Website: suewickhamconsulting.com.auStephen Jasper (The Jetlag Guy): A pharmacist-turned-consultant, Stephen is a “one-stop shop” for managing travel fatigue. With a new app, e-learning platform, and upcoming website refresh, he’s targeting HR and corporate wellness programs to help frequent flyers stay productive.
Website: jetlagguy.com.au- Arthur Chan (Chatty Curator): The creative force behind the Get Chatty About Your Local Businesses podcast. Arthur shared his journey of recording seven episodes in a month and sought advice on optimizing website SEO to make small business stories more discoverable.
Email: arthur@chattycurator.com Simon Dunn (Pink Flamingo Home Loans): Celebrating five years in business, Simon reported his best month ever in February. Despite rising fuel costs, he is pivoting to more digital-first client interactions while offering specialised solutions for small businesses struggling with ATO debt.
Website: pfhomeloans.com.auCheck out Simon’s chat with Arthur on YouTube: Watch here
Immy Abdullah (PBA Engagement Director & Clouds Above): Immy balanced her roles as a PBA leader and the founder of Clouds Above, a content marketing agency. She shared insights into creating “brand-extending” content, like TikToks about Sydney facts, that builds community engagement without a hard sell.
Email: immy@cloudsabove.com.au
Key Discussion: Pivoting Through Challenges
The “Open Forum” section of the meeting touched on the universal hurdles facing small businesses today:
- The Digital Shift: Many members, including Simon and Stephen, discussed the need to further digitize operations to offset rising costs like petrol and travel expenses.
- SEO & AI: Arthur and Simon discussed the evolution of search. While AI is becoming a tool for optimisation, the group agreed that organic, human-to-human conversation (like a podcast interview, or networking events) remains the most effective way to build trust, but acknowledge how much AI is used by people to learn about business.
- Community Support: Immy highlighted the upcoming 30th Anniversary of Fruits in October, a major milestone for the PBA, and the group acknowledge how useful Networking events are for small businesses. Vikas acknowledged GLOBE Victoria’s upcoming events.
Looking Ahead
The PBA x GLOBE Virtual Networking returns on Wednesday April 29 6:30pm. Register now!
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.
