Resilience and learning from adversity were the focus for the latest Women in Business Regional Network dinner in Strathalbyn.

The guest speaker was Port Pirie member Cheryl Bruce, who inspires others through sharing her personal experiences of dealing with extraordinary adversities in her life.

She says everyone is faced with adversity from time-to-time, but it’s important to learn from the experiences, rather than have regrets and dwell on the negative.

Cheryl spoke about coping when her teenage son was jailed for a first offence and rubbing shoulders in Yatala with the infamous Snowtown killers. Then, she shared what life was like when her son was made a paraplegic in a motorcycle accident.  

Now she is facing further struggles, supporting her partner who has dementia, while also reshaping her own life.  Each adversity has prepared her to be able to deal with the next.

Cheryl says she found solace in journaling and recognised that she is stronger than she ever realised.

She says it’s okay to make decisions in your own best interests and to take time out for yourself.

The next Strathalbyn function for the network will be a dinner on Monday 26 July, when Demelza Thorpe from Powdermonkey Design in Mount Barker will speak about small business branding.

The Women in Business Regional Network is open to business owners, managers, staff and those dreaming of owning their own business.  You don’t have to be a member to attend events, but bookings are essential via Eventbrite.com.au.

For more information about the Women in Business Regional Network visit the WIB website or phone Carolyn on 0435 432 203.