UPDATE: Casey Squires, founder of Signature Talks, has been named the Regional Business Builders Hero, an award reflecting her profound impact on women in regional Australia. Squires described the recognition as “surreal,” emphasizing that it highlights the possibility of making significant changes outside metropolitan areas.
Squires’ mission is clear: empower women to find their voice and confidently share their stories. “This recognition isn’t just about me – it’s about the women I serve,” she stated. Her work has inspired countless female entrepreneurs to craft their own Signature Talk, enabling them to stand on stages and grow their businesses through effective communication.
This award is especially significant as Squires received the highest public votes among 20 inspiring finalists, showcasing her local community’s support. “Being named a Regional Hero is an unbelievable honour,” Squires said. “It’s a testament to the generosity and spirit of my local community, which loves to support their own.”
Squires’ journey began early in her career while speaking at high schools across Australia. She noticed a troubling pattern: many capable girls remained silent, allowing boys to dominate discussions. This experience ignited her passion for empowering women, eventually leading to the creation of her business focused on the power of public speaking.
Now based in the Central Coast, Squires views her location as a unique advantage. “The business community here feels more personal,” she explained, highlighting the genuine friendships formed through networking events. Her reach, however, is anything but local; she has coached clients from Perth to Chicago, proving that impactful businesses can thrive anywhere.
Squires encourages aspiring entrepreneurs in regional areas to embrace the opportunity. “There’s never been a better time to live regionally and run a business that makes a difference,” she urges. Her advice: “Start where you are, lean into your story, and trust that you can build something bold and brilliant from anywhere.”
This award not only celebrates Squires but also serves as a beacon of hope for women in rural Australia, demonstrating that they can achieve their dreams and create lasting change. “We are the role models for the next generation,” Squires said, emphasizing the importance of inspiring young women to find their voices.
As Squires reflects on her achievements and future endeavors, she recognizes the ripple effect her work has on the community. “This win gives me a moment to pause, celebrate, and reflect on just how far I’ve come, and what’s still to come,” she stated.
Stay tuned as Casey Squires continues to lead the charge in empowering women across Australia, proving that impactful change can originate from anywhere, even the heart of rural communities.
