Accelerate Action- Thryv champions women in business for International Women’s Day
Thryv® (NASDAQ: THRY), provider of the leading small business software platform, is celebrating International Women’s Day by shining a spotlight on women who are breaking barriers, driving change and redefining leadership in small business and technology. As technology and business continue to evolve rapidly, women are driving progress, shaping industries and redefining leadership.As technology and business continue to evolve rapidly, women are driving progress, shaping industries and redefining leadership.
With this year’s theme Accelerate Action Thryv is celebrating the resilience, ambition and impact of women across industries. From business owners to industry leaders, these women are shaping the future through determination, innovation and leadership.
Elise Balsillie - Women leading the way in business and technology
Elise Balsillie, Head of Thryv Australia and New Zealand, believes that supporting women in business is essential for economic growth and innovation.
"Women are rewriting the rules of business and International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of how far we have come and how much further we have to go. At Thryv, we see firsthand how technology is enabling more women to start, scale and sustain successful businesses. Success is about fostering an environment where women can lead with confidence, be supported and have their voices heard. True progress happens when we create spaces where women don’t have to ask for a seat at the table, they are already there, making the decisions."
From established business owners to rising leaders, Thryv is proud to support women who are pushing boundaries and making an impact.
Sewing success - Megan Shipp’s journey in small business
For more than two decades, Megan Shipp, founder of Megan Adele Alterations has built a growing business in Perth, transforming her passion for garment alterations into a trusted brand. Megan has worked tirelessly to establish her reputation, challenging outdated perceptions and ensuring her craft is valued as the skilled profession it is.
"For me, business is about resilience and determination. Moving from a home-based setup to a shopfront was a daunting step, but it fuelled my growth. The biggest challenge? Earning respect for my craft in an industry that often overlooks its value. Even today, I continue proving my worth. Women in business must stand their ground, make their presence known and claim their rightful place at the table.”
Drilling through barriers - Tanya McRae-Klein’s leadership in dentistry
Seventeen years ago, Tanya McRae-Klein, co-founder Dental Installations Australia, stepped into the male-dominated world of dental equipment and service solutions. Determined to create a company that dentists could rely on, she built Dental Installations Australia into an industry leader. She is also a fierce advocate for mentoring and supporting women in dentistry.
"Seventeen years ago, there weren’t many women leading businesses in my industry. I had to work harder to be taken seriously, prove my expertise and build a trusted reputation. That’s why I now make it a priority to mentor and support women in dentistry. When we elevate each other, we all move forward."
Marketing with impact - Christine Formosa’s leadership in strategy
Christine Formosa, Demand Generation and Campaign Manager, is a marketing powerhouse, shaping Thryv’s strategy and driving small business success.
"Women in leadership make all the difference. Seeing strong female leaders, such as Elise Balsillie, showed me what is possible. For me, leadership is about impact, influence and making space for others."
Empowering businesses - Yasmin Misfud’s role in tech sales
Navigating the fast-paced world of tech sales, Yasmin Misfud, Team Leader, Software Sales at Thryv, has built a career on empowering small businesses with digital solutions. As a leader, she is passionate about ensuring that women in tech have the support and confidence to grow and succeed.
"Tech is an ever-evolving industry and it’s so important that women see themselves in leadership roles. I’ve always felt supported at Thryv and that’s what drives me to create an environment where my team feels empowered to lead with confidence."
Rewriting the rules - Phillippa Roil-Glendenning’s journey in business advisory
Leveraging her experience as a former small business owner of a boutique marketing agency, Phillippa Roil-Glendenning now serves as a Business Advisor at Thryv New Zealand, where she helps businesses scale and grow. She is passionate about simplifying marketing for small business owners and guiding them through digital transformation.
She was drawn to Thryv for its commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, allowing her to build a career that aligns with her strengths and aspirations.
"Success comes from forging a career that aligns with your strengths and aspirations. Women are reshaping business environments and creating spaces where diverse leadership strengthens both culture and business outcomes."
Baking a legacy - Paige Graham’s rise in hospitality
At just 27, Paige Graham has built Sweet as Choice Bakery, in New Zealand, from the ground up, proving that ambition, resilience and a love for baking, can create something truly special. She is passionate about inspiring the next generation of female entrepreneurs in hospitality.
"When I started my bakery, I knew I wanted to do more than just run a business, I also wanted to inspire. Through my journey, I have shown that with determination and the right support, women can build something truly meaningful.”
Creating a future where all women thrive
International Women’s Day is a moment to reflect on progress and take meaningful action. Change happens when we champion bold ideas, challenge outdated norms and create tangible opportunities for the next generation of female leaders.
"At Thryv, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace where women lead with confidence, drive meaningful innovation and redefine the future of business and technology," said Elise.
"Let’s continue to break barriers, elevate each other and create lasting change."
The picture features Elise Balsillie, Head of Thryv Australia and New Zealand
