2017 She Leads Conference – 5 Quick Questions with Tracey Spicer

11 May 2017

The 2017 She Leads Conference will be held on Thursday 1 June at QT Canberra, with the She Leads Cocktail and Networking function to be held the night before, on May 31. Tickets and program details are now available at 2017.sheleads.org.au.

Open to all, the She Leads Conference brings women from a range of sectors, at all stages of their leadership journeys, together with Australia’s most inspiring women leaders. This year, our program explores the theme ‘Challenge’ – focusing on stories of overcoming personal and professional challenges and experiences from women leaders who are transforming their workplaces, industries and communities.

Tracey Spicer is a television, radio, newspaper and online journalist is a highly sought-after writer, speaker and trainer. Renowned for the courage of her convictions, passion for social justice and commitment to equality, she also has a wicked sense of humour. This is evident in her memoir, The Good Girl Stripped Bare, which was published by HarperCollins in April 2017. Currently she works as a commentator on ABC TV’s The Drum, opinion and travel columnist for Fairfax Media, presentation trainer at the Australian Film, Television and Radio School, and media trainer for Spicer Communications.

Describe your leadership journey in 30 words or less.

Honestly, it’s been accidental. In my era, women weren’t really considered as leaders. We didn’t have the right ‘aptitude’, according to the likes of Tony Abbott.

What was (or is) your biggest leadership challenge?

Copping trolling and harassment when I stand up for myself or other women.

Why do we need more women leaders, and what difference can women in leadership make in terms of gender equality?

Having more women leaders normalises a proper power balance between men and women. This is important role modelling for everyone, from children to employees.

What book should every aspiring woman leader read?

My new one, The Good Girl Stripped Bare – ha!

Share with us the best piece of advice you’ve been given.

To go hard, not just for myself – for all women. And to use my voice to amplify others.

Tracey is the Emcee for the She Leads Conference on Thursday 1 June 2017. Find out more and book your ticket here.

Tags: Conference, emcee, gender equality, inspiring, journalist, Leadership, she leads, Women's leadership