THE Swan Chamber of Commerce’s (SCC) Ladies Connect event will be back on February 27 as a platform for connection, collaboration and confidence-building among women in business across the Swan region.

Ladies Connect is an initiative of SCC that brings together female members, business owners and community leaders for a structured yet welcoming networking event designed to foster genuine relationships.

AES Equipment Solutions senior marketing and communications advisor Jenalyn Despi said she keeps returning because of the authenticity of the connections formed.

“This lunch gathering is really valuable for female business leaders and professionals because it helps us connect and expand our network,” she said.

“But more than that, I appreciate the genuine connection, the authenticity and the friendships that are built even after the event.”

Ms Despi, a Midland resident, said what made the event special was the sense of belonging it fostered.

“I came from a different background, I’m Asian, so at first I was hesitant,” she said.

“But they were so welcoming and approachable.

“It added to my confidence and made me realise I can build connections and continue attending because of their genuine smiles.”

Former SCC board member and past women’s network coordinator Josie Daniele said the event originally grew from a desire to create opportunities for women to network in the same way men traditionally had.

“The essence of the ladies’ lunch is about growing business and meeting new people who become part of your network,” she said.

“It’s primarily lunch as everybody’s got something to talk about and as a result of that, you tap into valuable networks for a whole range of reasons.”

Ms Daniele said she had seen real outcomes from those connections, including work experience placements for her students and employment opportunities created through introductions at chamber events.

“It’s about giving and, hopefully, receiving when you need it,” she said.

While the event typically includes short presentations or guest speakers, the heart of Ladies Connect lies in the informal conversations around the table.

Ms Despi said each event left her feeling empowered and supported.

“For me, this ladies lunch is more than a meal,” she said.

“I consider it a venue for me to grow professionally and personally.”

The February 27 event will be held from 11am to 2pm at the Commercial Bar and Kitchen in Midland.

Bookings can be made through the SCC website.