EO Melbourne recently hosted a powerful and thought-provoking Fireside Chat with The Hon. Julia Gillard AC, Australia’s 27th Prime Minister, and the first and only woman to have held the role. This exclusive EO event offered members a rare opportunity to hear firsthand from one of the nation’s most respected leaders, whose insights into leadership, trust, and resilience left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Moderated by Tracy Angwin, Marketing and Partnership Director of the EO APAC Regional Council, the conversation went beyond the headlines and into the lived reality of leadership at the highest level. Ms Gillard shared candid reflections drawn from her time in public life, offering a glimpse into the personal and professional demands of leading under pressure.
The Power of Purpose
A key theme throughout the discussion was the power of purpose as a guiding force. Ms Gillard spoke of how anchoring decisions and actions to a clear sense of purpose enabled her to navigate complexity, manage time, and stay emotionally grounded. Far from being a motivational slogan, purpose became a practical tool for filtering what truly mattered and what didn’t.
Aligning Values and Opportunities
Ms Gillard also explored how aligning values, surrounding oneself with the right people, and crafting a lifestyle that supports long-term wellbeing are all essential filters for choosing opportunities. These insights sparked powerful reflection among EO members, many of whom recognised similar decision points in their own leadership journeys. Her message reinforced the idea that success is not just about power but it’s about using influence in service of what truly matters.
Inclusive Leadership and Gender Equity
Her perspectives on gender equity and inclusive leadership further enriched the conversation. Drawing from her co-authored book Women and Leadership: Real Lives, Real Lessons, she highlighted the value of lived experience and the importance of creating space for diverse voices in leadership.
A Unique Experience from EO
This EO-only event was a reminder of the power of authentic dialogue and learning from those who have walked the path before us. Ms Gillard’s wisdom, grace, and unfiltered stories offered not only valuable leadership lessons, but also an inspiring call to lead with purpose, clarity, and courage.
This event was a powerful reminder of what makes EO truly unique: real conversations with remarkable leaders, shared among like-minded entrepreneurs committed to growth. If you're a founder or business owner seeking deeper connection, world-class learning, and a trusted peer network, reach out. EO might be exactly what you’ve been searching for.