Empowering women of colour in business
Alicent Wong's philosophy centres on authenticity and mindset transformation. She guides Women of Colour in business and marketing to dismantle mental barriers, fostering unshakeable confidence.
As a migrant woman from Singapore, she has navigated corporate challenges, launched multiple successful ventures, and now dedicates herself to empowering other women of colour (WoC) in business.
During her time in the corporate world, Alicent encountered many challenges, having faced discrimination and been made redundant twice in the span of 2 years, she mentioned that her confidence took a hard hit.
"That shook my confidence quite a lot as a young migrant woman. It just really made me think about my self-worth and whether I was capable enough," Alicent explained.
These experiences, though challenging, prompted Alicent to embark on a journey of self-reflection and personal growth that led her to start her own business and put her on a path of mentorship for other entrepreneurs.
She established the Women of Colour Founders Network in 2022 as an online story telling platform that amplified the stories and voices of WoC founders worldwide.
"Since its inception, the Network has expanded beyond a storytelling platform into a transformative space for Black and Brown women who are redefining leadership and business on their terms," she said.
Alicent believes that more women need access to mentoring opportunities to thrive in business, which is why she has decided to be part of Queensland Government’s Mentoring for Growth program.
Alicent said, "I would really love to see more women being supported and being championed when it comes to starting their own businesses...they should have mentors, coaches, [and] resources at their fingertips to help them get started."
"There is a reason why I am volunteering my time, and this is because I have been there, I know how difficult it is starting out".
Reflecting on her learnings, Alicent shared her most important piece of advice which is to "just stick true to your why." She also emphasised the importance of knowing when to ask for help and surrounding yourself with a network of supportive women who will build you up.
Regarding the future, Alicent celebrates the progress women have made in business, but she sees more work ahead.
As a mother of 2 young daughters, she thinks that the work needs to start from a very young age "It's crucial to expose children to various opportunities," she asserted, "so they grow up understanding that their potential isn't confined by traditional roles or expectations."
Beyond that, she is also hopeful for a future that provides female entrepreneurs, especially migrant women, with more access to mentorship opportunities, funding, and early-stage support.
She also strongly advocates for societal and organisational changes to better support women returning from maternity leave and those navigating various life stages to provide more opportunities for women to venture into business, no matter their circumstances.
"Every woman deserves the right to build the life and business she dreams of—regardless of her ethnic and cultural background," she emphasised.