Breaking Barriers: The Role of RAPs in Business Events with Rebecca Wessels

The Conference Collective - Event Management Podcast

In this episode of The Conference Collective, we are thrilled to welcome Rebecca Wessels, the founder and CEO of Ochre Dawn, to discuss the transformative power of Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs). Rebecca shares her insights on what RAPs are and why they are crucial for businesses aiming to foster inclusivity and reconciliation within their communities. Learn practical steps for incorporating a RAP into your event, and understand the importance of building genuine relationships with local communities. Rebecca also addresses common fears, misconceptions, and mistakes businesses often encounter when implementing RAPs. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and strategies for making a meaningful impact through your events.
About Rebecca Wessels:
Rebecca Wessels is the founder and CEO of Ochre Dawn Pty Ltd a specialist marketing and branding business. With years of experience in community services and youth work, combined with skills obtained from over a decade working in corporate IT, Rebecca’s unique skill set and background offers a great foundation for creative solutions for clients’ needs.
A descendent of the Stolen Generations from Ngarrindjeri and Peramangk peoples, as well as the City of Salisbury founder, John Harvey, Rebecca is passionate about South Australia, First Nations’ community, storytelling and creative business practices.
Rebecca brings the preservation of language and culture to the forefront of innovative business practices by advocating for respect for ethnicity, diversity and multiculturalism. Rebecca’s background in working closely with First Nations, new Australians (former refugees) and international students has inspired her to engage the business community in a way that acknowledges and values the contributions of these groups.
Rebecca’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccawessels/
Ochre Dawn Website: https://www.ochredawn.com.au/
About The PCOA:
The PCO Association is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand.
The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector.
Website: www.pco.asn.au
About Connected Event Group:
At Connected Event Group we offer innovation and creativity in audio-visual services and event production, employing technical solutions that help people and businesses communicate with each other. We’ve been translating event technologies for our clients for over two decades specialising in AV equipment and service, technical event production management and broadcasting, across a range of industries. We’re experts in making the impossible possible.
Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com
About Libbie Ray:
Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group and the President of the Entrepreneurs Organisation Sydney. Libbie's 20 years of experience across marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production provides a well-rounded approach to the new world of events. Libbie's passionate about sharing her knowledge and insights and works with Skills IQ and TAFE to assist in the development of the training and education framework for her sector.
Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/