Women in Leadership
From Confidence to Career Change: how the WIL program empowered Talsa Yates The power of women in leadership For many women in hospitality, stepping into leadership roles isn’t just about skills – it’s about confidence, opportunity, and the right support network. For Talsa Yates, a 2023 Women in Leadership (WIL) Scholarship Recipient, the program wasn’t just a course – it was a game-changer. In just one year, Talsa has transformed her career, expanded her leadership skills, and made bold decisions to align her life with her goals. She credits the WIL Program as the catalyst that gave her the skills, network, and confidence to take those steps. “More important than the practical skills, this program has given me the confidence to pursue dreams and opportunities that I used to feel were out of my reach,” she says. When Talsa first joined the program, she was the Catering Manager for Wineglass Bay Cruises, working at the intersection of sustainability, tourism, and food. With nearly two decades of experience in hospitality, she had the knowledge – but was looking for a pathway to leadership. Through the WIL program, Talsa gained: • A Diploma in Leadership and Management – Equipping her with essential leadership skills. • Practical tools for career development – Helping her apply new strategies in real-time. • A strong professional network – Connecting her with women who encouraged and supported her journey. • A new level of confidence – Empowering her to take the leap into new opportunities. And leap she did. Recognising that she wasn’t in the right environment to grow, she made the bold decision to leave her role and pursue a career path that aligned with her leadership aspirations and personal goals. “The combination of my experiences with Women in Leadership, finishing my diploma, and Tas Leaders this year made me realise I was not in the right environment to be setting myself up for where I want to be and all the things I want to accomplish,” Talsa says. “So I made some changes to facilitate more space in my life for further study, community, and a few passion projects that I am excited to throw myself into.” Talsa has since taken on a new role at Freycinet Lodge, working alongside industry leaders while building space for further studies and personal projects – a decision she attributes to the empowerment and support gained from the WIL program.
The hospitality industry is filled with talented, driven women who have immense potential, yet many lack the formal leadership training, support, and confidence to step into the roles they deserve. The Women in Leadership Program isn’t just about education – it’s about creating a pipeline of strong, confident female leaders who can shape the future of hospitality and tourism. For young women like Talsa, the program provides: • Skills & Qualifications – A structured pathway to leadership. • A Supportive Network – A community of women who uplift and mentor each other. • Career Acceleration – Practical strategies that help participants take the next step. • Confidence & Empowerment – The push they need to step out of their comfort zones.
“I wouldn’t be in this position without the initial empowerment and confidence boost from WIL, so thank you again, and the whole organisation. I truly feel like this is just the beginning of some really wonderful things!” Talsa’s journey is a testament to how impactful the right leadership training and support can be. From stepping out of her comfort zone to reshaping her career, she has shown how education, community, and courage can lead to remarkable transformation. Her story is just one of many – but it highlights exactly why initiatives like the Women in Leadership Program are so essential for the future of hospitality. Are you ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? The Women in Leadership Program could be the launchpad you need. Get involved today!
29 Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
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