'Col has a natural power to mesmerise a room with her voice. She is a true visionary. She has always empowered me and given me the autonomy to realise my creative ideas. She taught me to be open and honest and gave me the confidence to express my ideas with passion and conviction.'
Kerrie Nelson, Director and Founder, Gypsy River and Gypsy River House
'Every now and again you meet and work with stand-out people. I'm talking about a great listener; an authentic, interested, laser-focused, clever, caring, giving (with a roll-up-your-sleeves and get-stuff-done attitude) person. That's Colleen.'
Lisa Kingman, Managing Director, Social Good
'Colleen is a dynamic, sophisticated and compassionate leader. Her tenacious and assertive approach in business is beautifully complemented by her attention to emotional detail, openness in communication, and appreciation of the essentiality of cultivating wellbeing in the corporate sphere. Colleen leads with elegance, generosity and grace.'
Meredith Gaston, author, artist, wellness coach and speaker
'As one of Australia's leading CEOs, and as a new ambassador for CEO Dare to Cure and the Children's Cancer Institute, Colleen has passionately engaged with our organisation. She has made a real and significant philanthropic impact and helped raise vital research funds to ultimately find a cure for every child.'
Cameron Bayfield, Corporate Partnerships Manager, Children's Cancer Institute
'When I met Colleen, I instantly felt connected to her spirit and likeable nature that oozes girl-next-door-meets-exciting-entrepreneur. What I love about Colleen is that she knows who she is and what she stands for. She's inspiring and grounded and makes you want to learn more and more from her.'
Amanda Campbell, sports kinesiologist, multiple sclerosis ambassador and mindset coach
'Colleen is a true leader for our times: generous and purpose-driven. She inspires women to truly believe in themselves, to give hard stuff a go and to use their voice to strive for bigger things. She is kind and empathetic and leads with integrity and purpose.'
Olivia Ruello, CEO, Business Chicks
'Colleen is one of the most influential and dynamic forces in the Australian fashion industry. Her unique ability to lead, have an impact and remain relevant in one of the most competitive industries is truly remarkable. She has empowered and led thousands of women over her dynamic career and is a phenomenal role model all women can learn from.'
Jess Thomas, Founder, Health Lab Australia
'I started my career as a young adult in my early 20s and Colleen quickly became my mentor, the leader I looked up to and an amazing role model - not only for me but also for everyone around her. Colleen was the kind of leader I wanted to be. Colleen challenged me, empowered me and taught me the importance of believing in myself and staying true to my values.'
Cristiana Bronson, National Sales Manager, Sportsgirl
'I have had the privilege of working with Colleen for many years as she has supported my charity. The kindness she has constantly shown has always stood out and made me feel welcome whenever I went to Sportsgirl. Her continuous support and generosity have been a cornerstone for our long relationship and I've always felt inspired after being in her presence.'
Melissa Azzopardi, National Partnerships Executive, Starlight Foundation