The rhetoric around women in media supporting other women in media often risks becoming just that… white noise.
But seeing it play out, especially on a public stage, is something else entirely.
That’s exactly what happened on Friday night when Lou Barrett, Managing Director of National Sales at News Corp Australia, was inducted into Mediaweek’s Hall of Fame at the publication’s Next of the Best awards.
In a heartfelt tribute, Renée Sycamore, General Manager of Growth and Experience, and Barrett’s longtime friend, reflected on Barrett’s lasting impact and leadership philosophy.
With Barrett away at Cannes Lions, Sycamore shared insights from their years working together, highlighting Barrett’s commitment to resilience, grace, and genuine collaboration.
With their blessing, Mediaweek is proud to share the full speech below.
Renée Sycamore, General Manager of Growth and Experience
“Hello everyone, I’m Renee Sycamore. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Lou for over 20 years, most recently, with her at News. I’m honored to be speaking on behalf of Lou tonight; as you heard she would love to have been here, but lucky her, she is living her best life at Cannes Lion.
“Speaking of Cannes Lion, industry events such as tonight are so important, so a very big thank you, from me also, to Mediaweek for getting us all together tonight.
“Attending and supporting industry events such as this offer so many benefits, especially as we navigate through the ever-changing Australian media landscape together.
“Benefits such as networking; super important for our up-coming Next of the Best leaders, and lets be honest, the chance to catch up with some old buddies for some of us that have been around a little longer.
“There is also the opportunity to be inspired, to showcase and applaud our great work, to hear about market news, to listen and learn from the best of our industry, and most importantly, the celebration of our people, just like we are doing here tonight.
“Though Lou couldn’t be here, she wanted to share some insights with the next generation of media leaders – that’s you!
“Lou believes that true magic in our industry happens when we partner and collaborate with clients at the heart. Think about it: when we pool our talents, experience and perspectives, we create truly innovative solutions. She has seen this firsthand, building high-performing teams that thrive even in challenging times.
Renée Sycamore, General Manager of Growth and Experience
“Lou has two key leadership principles.
“First is resilience. And with a career spanning many decades, Lou has had her fair share of tough times. One of her favourite sayings is, ‘Never regret a day in your life; good days bring happiness, bad days bring experience, your worst days bring lessons, and your best days give memories.’ For Lou, it’s about having that ‘glass half full’ mentality, believing in yourself and your team’s ability….to find a way forward, even when the odds are stacked against you.
“Lou’s second leadership principle is grace. Her leadership isn’t about achieving goals at all costs. For Lou, integrity, morals, humility, and understanding the shadow you cast as a leader is paramount. Building, nurturing and empowering a supportive team is Lou’s speciality. Lou has always prioritised building a collaborative and respectful environment. I’ve never seen her lose her cool (well maybe once or twice). Lou doesn’t lead by simply giving orders or making decisions; she leads with empathy, understanding, and a deep respect for the people around her.
“So when I asked Lou, what’s your one piece of advice for our leaders of tomorrow, she said, be curious, bold, resilient, and above all, collaborative. She also wanted to encourage you, our future leaders, in a world where we too often sit behind a screen, to step out from behind that screen and make real connections. Real connections that deliver life long relationships. Lou’s relationships built over her career bring her so much joy, and she doesn’t want any of you to miss out on that.
“So, look around the room, or look back at the last 6 months, and ask yourself, who have you yet to collaborate with? How could their skills and perspectives enhance your work? Reach out to them. Start a conversation. That’s where the real magic begins.”