Helping women in marginalised communities build stronger business

When seasoned entrepreneur and business leader Petina Tieman set out to make a difference, she wanted to create real opportunities for small businesses—particularly women and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander entrepreneurs.

Splitting her time between Brisbane and Far North Queensland, she has worked across a variety of urban, regional and remote communities addressing the unique challenges faced by business owners in different environments.

Her mission is reflected in her role as Managing Director at Complete Business Solutions, where she leads mentorship workshops and business support initiatives to help individuals navigate the complexities of business ownership.

As a globally recognised, multi-award-winning Indigenous business entrepreneur, Petina holds a multitude of qualifications and specialises in education, tourism, business growth, change management and Indigenous advocacy.

Her journey into business wasn't just about professional ambition—it was deeply personal.

Having had a challenging start in life, she was determined to shape her own future and, in turn, empower other women with similar experiences to do the same.

"I've always wanted to help women, especially those from disadvantaged or marginalised backgrounds, gain the skills and confidence to grow—both personally and professionally," she said.

To further help female business owners, Petina started Australian Women in Business, a national network of over 3,000 women that provides practical, business-focused support.

Unlike traditional social enterprises, this community is dedicated to collaboration, resource-sharing, and growth. It's about improving women’s self-esteem and confidence in achieving real business outcomes.

Petina said, "We connect women to business opportunities, transferring skills and knowledge to each other, and this membership is completely free."

Beyond her mentoring work, Petina has worked on many bespoke projects like the current Deadly Business Aurukun Project, a Queensland Government-funded initiative supporting Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander entrepreneurs in remote communities.

"The goal was to engage 3 to 6 participants, but we ended up with 10 highly motivated local entrepreneurs."

"Now, we're helping transition them to further business support so they can continue building sustainable enterprises," she shared.

As Queensland Women's Week (2–9 March) is celebrated, Petina reflected on the importance of championing women's contributions in business and leadership.

Petina believes that women bring invaluable strength to leadership, shaped by their ability to adapt, manage multiple responsibilities, lead with empathy and be outcomes focused.

"Women are raised to juggle priorities, balance emotional awareness, and professionalism. I believe that's a unique strength women bring to leadership roles," she said.

Looking at the progress women have made in business, Petina acknowledges the impact that government initiatives have had to help women build confidence and step into leadership roles.

"I'm most grateful for the programs that empower women to take that step forward and become the best they can be in business," she explained.

However, she believes there's still more work to be done to ensure women receive ongoing mentorship, financial education, and long-term business support to sustain their success.

As a mentor for the Queensland Government's Mentoring for Growth program, Petina advises aspiring female entrepreneurs to find a mentor outside of their immediate environment.

"You need someone who is objective, who doesn't have preconceived notions about you or your business. A mentor can help you stay on track, challenge your ideas, be your accountability partner and provide the support you need to grow."

"I push myself to keep learning, growing, and sharing that knowledge with others. The more I learn, the more I can help women on their journey."

"It's about putting in the work, asking for help, and having the confidence to know your worth," she said.