The coronavirus pandemic has devastated many across the region and small business owner Karryn Bartlett is no stranger to these effects.
But a random act of kindness threw her lifeline during a time she described as disastrous.
Karryn was chosen to participate in a Business Building Bootcamp program run by women empowerment organisation, Business in Heels.
The program was packed with vital education and mentoring resources which helped her to continue to progress throughout the pandemic.
The Random Act of Kindness initiative meant Karryn got the chance to participate in the program for free, thanks to donations from others.
“I never expected to be accepted or offered a spot, there were only eight at the bootcamp,” she said.
“But I am so grateful to have been a part of it.
“It gave me a chance to focus on my business – Travel Managers- Karryn Bartlett.
“Normally, I am quite busy but with COVID that stopped so for me it was about keeping my head busy.”
Business In Heels Co-Founder Lisa Sweeney developed the Bootcamp to foster female success in the workplace to arm over 160,000 women across the globe with confidence and keys to success.
“COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on businesses across the globe and female-lead companies are struggling now more than ever, bearing the brunt of the fallout,” she said.
“Business In Heels aims to give women a thriving professional future unlimited by gender.
“Together we are a community of women supporting women as we accelerate our companies and bridge the gap in female wages, retirement funds and business success.”
Karryn encouraged anyone who can to donate to their Random Act of Kindness Program.
“For you to be able to support women in business is incredible,” she said.
“Without having that act of kindness I could not have [participated] in the program.”
Karryn has been working in the travel industry for more than 20 years but said this year is like nothing she has ever experienced.
“I’ve been un-booking trips,” she said.
“It’s been very time consuming dealing with clients who’s travel dreams are crushed.
“It’s been very emotional and with no international travel in sight to have something to focus on and keeping positive has been the hardest thing.
“COVID has been disastrous for the travel industry but I am making sure my business keeps going and that my clients know that I’ll still be here when it’s all done.”
For more information or to donate, visit the Business in Heels website.
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