The amount of successful Australian businesswomen is on the rise. In fact, Two out of three of Little Big Shop’s founders are women!
With the United Nation’s theme for International Women’s Day 2023 being “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality,” we thought it would be fitting to recognise some of the Australian women who have turned their passion and creativity into successful online businesses in tech, design, and ecommerce.
These inspiring Australian businesswomen have overcome challenges and have made a name for themselves in their respective industries.
Melanie Perkins: Canva
Melanie Perkins is the CEO and co-founder of Canva, an online graphic design platform that allows users to create beautiful designs.
Perkins started Canva in 2013 with her co-founder, Cliff Obrecht, and today, the company is valued at over $15 billion. Perkins has been recognised by Forbes as one of the most powerful Australian businesswoman in tech, and her company has grown to over 2,000 employees across the globe.
Jane Lu: Showpo
Jane Lu is the founder and CEO of Showpo, a fashion e-commerce business that offers affordable and trendy clothing to women around the world. Lu started Showpo in 2010 and has since grown it into a multimillion-dollar business with a loyal customer base. In 2018, Lu was named the Entrepreneur of the Year at the Australian Retail Awards.
Read all about Lu’s humble beginnings, and how she got to where she is, here.
Cyan Ta'eed: Envato
Cyan Ta’eed is the co-founder and executive director of Envato, a marketplace for creative assets that includes websites, graphics, and video templates. Ta’eed started Envato in 2006 with her husband, Collis, and today, the company has over 500 employees and has paid out over $1 billion to its contributors. Ta’eed was named the Telstra Business Woman of the Year in 2015.
Naomi Simson: RedBalloon
Naomi Simson is the founder of RedBalloon, an online marketplace that offers unique and memorable experiences to its customers.
Simson started RedBalloon in 2001 and has since grown it into a successful business that has sold over four million experiences. Simson is also a judge on the Australian television show Shark Tank and has written several books on entrepreneurship.
Kristy Chong: Modibodi
Kristy Chong is the founder and CEO of Modibodi, a company that creates sustainable and comfortable underwear for women. Chong started Modibodi in 2013 and has since grown it into a successful business that has won numerous awards for its innovative products. Chong is one of the most interesting Australian businesswomen, as she is recognised for empowering women and breaking down taboos around menstruation.
Discover more about her story here.
Kayla Itsines: Sweat App
Kayla Itsines is an Australian personal trainer, entrepreneur, and author who has gained international recognition for her fitness programs and the development of the Sweat app. Her app, Sweat, provides users with workout routines, meal plans, and other health and fitness resources. It has become increasingly popular in recent years, with millions of users worldwide.
These are just a few of the many Australian businesswomen who have developed successful online businesses in Australia. Their stories serve as an inspiration to others who are looking to start their own ventures in digital landscapes, including tech and ecommerce. With their hard work, determination, and innovative ideas, they have proven that women should be celebrated for their creativity and initiative. Happy International Women’s Day!
