Reneé Blackwell accepts her award
Jeweller awarded for business success
Posted September 03, 2013 | By Emily Mobbs • Former Editor
Jewellery designer Reneé Blackwell has been recognised for her business
acumen, having received an award at a recent women’s networking event.
Blackwell, founder of Reneé Blackwell Jewellery Design, was named the 2013 micro small business woman of the year at the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network awards last week.
Entrants had to demonstrate all-round achievement, sound business acumen and evidence of a positive approach to work/life balance.
Blackwell said that winning the award was an important next step in both her personal and professional life.
“It is such an honour to be representing not only my own hard work, but endless efforts of women in businesses large and small on the Sunshine Coast and beyond."
The designer began selling her jewellery pieces at the Eumundi markets – located on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland – 14 years ago. Her line is now available in more than 150 stores and galleries in Australia and New Zealand and a new e-commerce website will launch in September.
When asked what major challenges she has had to overcome since first establishing her jewellery business, Blackwell is resoundingly positive.
“I don’t want to paint it like rose-coloured glass but honestly I try to avoid that kind of thing. It doesn’t mean that I’ve never had challenges but they are more everyday challenges rather than anything major.”
As an award recipient, Blackwell will spend time as an ambassador for the networking group.
"I plan to continue working in and on my jewellery business, as well as making time to share the joys, secrets and excitement of the business life I've enjoyed for 30 years."
Now in its 15th year, the awards are listed as one of the most respected events on the Sunshine Coast and are seen as a platform to celebrate the success of women in business.