Investing in Rural Women

Jackie Elliott is the founder of Rural Women’s Day, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2019 to create opportunities for rural women to connect, learn, and support one another.

Through the support of the South West Community Foundation, Jackie was able to attend the first three sessions of the Rural Women Lead program delivered by Leadership Great South Coast — an opportunity that enabled her to invest in her own leadership development and continue building her capacity to support rural communities.

Like many people living in regional areas, Jackie’s journey has been shaped by the realities of farming, family, and community life. For many years, she had wanted to pursue leadership opportunities, but the timing and financial commitment had made this difficult. The support from SWCF opened the door for Jackie to participate, learn, connect, and grow alongside other emerging regional leaders.

What makes this story particularly special is the unexpected way the connection came full circle.

SWCF’s support of Leadership Great South Coast helped create the opportunity for Jackie to participate in the Rural Women Lead program. It was through this program that Jackie and SWCF Executive Officer Alison Byrne met, without realising at the time that their paths had already been connected through a shared commitment to strengthening regional leadership and community.

After the program, Alison and Jackie continued their conversation, including over coffee, exploring ways Jackie could become more connected with SWCF and contribute her knowledge and experience to the Foundation’s work.

It was later, during a conversation with Kirsten Diprose for the Ducks on a Pond podcast, that the full circle moment was revealed. Alison and Jackie discovered that SWCF’s support had helped make Jackie’s leadership journey possible — a wonderful reminder of how community investment can create connections and opportunities that extend far beyond the original funding.

For Jackie, the impact of this opportunity goes beyond personal growth. The skills, confidence, and connections gained through the program will continue to strengthen her work with Rural Women’s Day and the many rural women she supports.

Jackie’s story captures the true spirit of community philanthropy: when we invest in people, we strengthen the networks, ideas, and communities that surround them.

“Jackie’s story beautifully captures why SWCF exists — to create opportunities, connect people, and support the local leaders who are strengthening our communities. Seeing this investment come full circle was a wonderful reminder of the ripple effect that happens when we invest in people.”
— Alison Byrne, Executive Officer, South West Community Foundation