You’ve recently shifted your focus to your own business, Keldy. Can you tell us more about what you do?

Absolutely. Keldy helps entrepreneurs, innovators, researchers, and small business owners build the skills they need to turn their work into real-world impact. Whether that’s launching a product, growing internationally, or commercialising research, I support them through capability uplift, coaching, and strategic advice. My goal is to equip them so they can do it for themselves and keep doing it long after I’ve stepped away.

You have a clear passion for working with small businesses. What draws you to them?

Small businesses often start with passion and purpose. They’re driven by people who see a gap, a need, or an opportunity to do something meaningful. Whether it’s a social enterprise or a local service, they’re usually not in it just for the money, they want to make a difference. I love helping them turn that vision into reality and overcome the roadblocks along the way.

"Leadership is about understanding the goal and empowering others to work toward it—giving people the support they need to positively contribute."

What are the biggest challenges you see small businesses facing right now?

Access to funding is a universal challenge, especially for early-stage startups. In Australia, we also have supply chain constraints and the added complexity of being a smaller market. Many founders want to go global, but they’re unsure how to break into international markets. On top of that, talent shortages and skills gaps are affecting almost every industry. These barriers can feel huge, especially for new entrepreneurs.

Looking ahead, what role do you see technology playing in the future of small business?

Technology is absolutely critical. It can unlock efficiency, streamline systems, and help businesses scale sustainably. As businesses grow, relying on manual processes or outdated systems won’t cut it. The small businesses that embrace technology and use it strategically will be the ones that succeed—not just financially, but in terms of impact and reach.

What makes a small business successful in your view?

Clarity of purpose. The businesses that succeed are the ones that understand what they’re trying to achieve and why it matters. They’re grounded in strong values and stay focused on their bigger vision. That clarity helps them navigate distractions and stay resilient even when things get tough. Most small businesses I work with aren’t chasing fame; they’re chasing impact.

"Small businesses see an opportunity to make a real difference in the world"

Finally, what excites you most about joining the BASA Awards® judging panel?

It’s such a privilege to help spotlight the incredible innovation, heart, and impact happening in the small business sector. I love that the BASA Awards® don’t just reward flashy growth, they celebrate values, vision, and resilience. It aligns perfectly with the work I do and the kind of leadership I admire. I’m excited to help recognise businesses that are making a real difference—quietly, persistently, and with purpose.