The Aunties has launched a new event series, Founders & Freelancers, designed to support and connect self-employed professionals across the creative industries.
Targeted at women, non-binary, and gender-diverse founders, freelancers, consultants and partners, the series will run in both Melbourne and Sydney this August. Each event promises a space for open, practical conversations, with no formal presentations or networking tropes in sight.
Supporting solo operators with real-world connection
Held under Chatham House rules, each evening will begin with a panel of speakers followed by informal discussion and networking. The goal is to foster a “real, generous” community for those working independently, said Chelsea Morley, Founders & Freelancers Auntie and Co-Founder of Tiny Disco.
“There’s freedom in freelancing and power in starting your own thing, but there’s also isolation, instability, and a hell of a lot of paperwork,” Morley said. “Founders & Freelancers is about community – real, generous, community – that understands what it means to go out on your own.”
Panelists from across creative industries
The Melbourne event will take place Wednesday 13 August, 6pm at Tiny Disco and will be hosted by Morley. Panelists include Hannah McElhinney, Co-Founder of Snack Drawer; Divya Singh, Freelance Senior Art Director; and Elle Bullen, Partner at Hellions.
The Founders & Freelancer Melbourne Lineup
The Sydney edition will follow on Thursday 14 August, 6pm at Born Creators, hosted by Sive Buckley, Managing Partner at Born Creators. Panelists include Chiquita King, Founder and MD of Cocogun; Cybele Malinowski, Founder of Agender; and Emily Taylor, Strategy Founder at Bureau of Everything.
The Founders & Freelancer Sydney Lineup
Building a platform for shared experience
“We’ve heard loud and clear from founders and freelancers over the past few years about their challenges and the lack of connection,” said Buckley. “This initiative is designed to bring this growing cohort together offering a mix of networking, practical advice, and a space where people who often work solo can find a real sense of community.”
Both events will be catered, with Drop of Sunshine wine provided by Treasury Collective and furnishings in Melbourne courtesy of Dann Event Hire.
Tickets are free, with RSVPs essential via Humanitix: