2024 Women to Watch
This year we showcase over 80 South Australian women to watch throughout the year. From business, to careers, arts to science. This year’s selected women highlight the depth and diversity of the women in our state and also the vast array of opportunities to develop a business or career in South Australia. Find our more about our inaugural Women to Watch initiative here.
My husband Matt and I started iElectrical & Communications 7 years ago – we started out with just Matt and a van and have grown to employing more than 40 electricians (plus our administration staff) and the creation of our second business Banton Australia in 2023. Whilst being heavily involved in our business I have also worked full-time in the superannuation sector in Head of Strategic Communications and Head of Corporate & Public Affairs roles.
// Favourite inspirational quote
“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always.”
// Let’s get to know you
To start from the beginning on my personal journey, I undertook a Bachelor of Journalism when I finished school in 2006. Subsequently I worked as a journalist before making the move to work for a public relations agency. I have always put my success down to a little bit of luck and a whole lot of hard work. From agency, I took the leap into the financial services sector whilst Matt and I got iElectrical off the ground. This meant in my spare time I was working on building the brand whilst supporting Matt wherever I could. We are the definition of the perfect team – Matt has exceptional technical and person skills whereas I bring a different lens from a marketing and communications perspective. I take enormous pride in what we have created together which is now an award-winning organisation with a fantastic culture.
In 2023, we identified a clear gap in the marketplace for an end-to-end sustainability solution. This led Matt and I to create Banton Australia – a play on our son’s Ashton and Banks names. Matt leads the project management and relationship side of this business whilst I again work to create another brand with a national presence. This is a passion project for us as we support business, local and regional councils and EV charging networks to reach Net Zero 2050.
// What makes you a Woman to Watch for 2024?
I have to admit I much prefer Matt to take the limelight, and this is the first time I have taken an opportunity to talk about myself, but I am genuinely excited to put myself forward as a nominee for the SA Women to Watch in 2024. Personally, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to lead as the General Manager of iElectrical & Communications and Director, Communications and Engagement, of Banton Australia. Being a trailblazer and innovator in the trade industry has been a deeply personal journey, breaking down gender barriers in a field traditionally dominated by men. My commitment to sustainability and the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 in Australia reflects my dedication to making a lasting impact on our environment.
In positioning Banton Australia as a pioneer in the electric vehicle (EV) charging sector, I’ve played a pivotal role. As the first end-to-end EV charging solution provider, Banton Australia is at the forefront of advancing sustainable transportation. My visionary leadership ensures that the solutions offered by Banton Australia are not only cutting-edge but also environmentally conscious. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the national goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, making Banton Australia a symbol of innovation in the transition to a greener future.
Guiding Banton Australia, I’ve spearheaded the development of comprehensive packages for EV charging solutions, showcasing the depth of knowledge and experience within our team. My leadership fosters an environment of innovation, and our team is dedicated to creating solutions that can endure for generations. This commitment to longevity sets Banton Australia apart in the ever-evolving landscape of electric vehicle infrastructure.
Beyond my role at Banton Australia, I am heavily involved iElectrical & Communications, an award-winning electrical company founded in 2016. Specializing in residential, commercial, and maintenance services with a team of over 40 South Australians, my leadership at iElectrical has not only led to business success but has also positioned our company as an advocate for women in trades.
I actively champion diversity and inclusion within the trade industry, particularly encouraging more women to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields. My advocacy for women in trades at iElectrical & Communications is a testament to my commitment to breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities for all.
// If you could share one takeaway from your business or career journey, what would it be?
Ask the questions. I think this is takeaway I have followed consistently throughout the year and probably comes from my journalistic background and some my team has come to expect from me.
I will ask you:
– Why are you doing it this way?
– How do you plan to execue?
– Who does it impact and what do you want their experience to be?
– What are you going to measure?
– When are you going to deliver?
And then I will ask again!
// What would being a Woman to Watch mean to you?
Being recognised as a Woman to Watch in 2024 would hold great personal and professional significance for me. The acknowledgment would underscore the impact of my contributions in breaking gender barriers and fostering innovation in the traditionally male-dominated trade industry.
This recognition would also provide a platform to amplify the causes I am passionate about, such as sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. As a Woman to Watch, I would see it as an opportunity to inspire and empower more women to pursue careers in trades and to advocate for sustainable practices in the business world.
Moreover, the title would come with a responsibility to continue pushing boundaries, setting new standards, and being a role model for aspiring professionals, especially women, in the industry. It would encourage me to persist in my commitment to creating positive change, both within my organizations and the broader community. Being a Woman to Watch in 2024 would mean recognising the collective efforts of my teams, celebrating achievements, and using the platform to drive positive change in the trade industry and beyond.
I’d also like my sons to see that mummy can do brave things! (putting myself out there is not something I am very good at)
// What would you like to see for the future of South Australian women and girls?
In envisioning an ideal future for South Australian women and girls, particularly in the context of more women in trades and fostering a culture of women supporting women and girls, I would like to see:
Increased Representation in Trades:
Ideal Future: An ideal future involves a significant increase in the number of women pursuing and thriving in trades. This includes diverse roles such as electricians, mechanics, and builders. I envision a future where these career paths are equally accessible and appealing to women, breaking down gender stereotypes in traditionally male-dominated fields.
What Needs to Be Done: Educational institutions can play a vital role by promoting and facilitating programs that encourage girls to explore trades from an early age. This includes mentorship initiatives, workshops, and exposure to successful women in trades. Employers can actively recruit and support women in these roles, fostering inclusive workplaces.
What We Can All Do Together: Communities, businesses, and educational institutions can collaborate to organise awareness campaigns, mentorship programs, and provide resources that highlight the opportunities available in trades for women. Supporting and celebrating women who have succeeded in these fields can serve as inspiration.
Women Supporting Women and Girls:
Ideal Future: An ideal future involves a strong sense of solidarity among women, where they actively support and empower each other in various aspects of life, education, and career development. This includes mentorship, networking, and creating opportunities for growth.
What Needs to Be Done: Establishing mentorship programs where successful women in trades guide and support younger generations can be instrumental. Creating networks and platforms for women to share experiences, challenges, and successes can foster a sense of community and support. Something that SA Women is taking great strides in!
What We Can All Do Together: Organisations, both within and outside the trades sector, can collaborate to create mentorship initiatives and networking events. Schools and community organizations can facilitate programs that connect girls with female role models in trades, providing inspiration and guidance.
Educational Reforms:
Ideal Future: An ideal future involves educational systems that actively challenge gender norms and biases. Girls should be encouraged and supported to explore a diverse range of subjects, including trades and STEM fields, without societal expectations limiting their choices.
What Needs to Be Done: Educational reforms are essential to challenge stereotypes and provide equal opportunities for girls in all fields. Implementing inclusive curricula, showcasing diverse career options, and ensuring that educational resources are free from gender bias are critical steps.
What We Can All Do Together: Advocacy groups, educators, and policymakers can work collaboratively to influence and implement educational reforms that promote inclusivity and diversity. Supporting initiatives that provide equal access to educational resources and opportunities for girls in all fields can be a collective effort.
Ultimately, the ideal future involves a collaborative effort from communities, businesses, educational institutions, and individuals to create an environment where women and girls are empowered to pursue their aspirations without limitations, be it in trades or any other field. It’s about fostering a culture of support, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of gender.
Get in touch with Domenique:
LinkedIn: Domenique Downie
Website: www.ielectricalandcomms.com.au & www.banton.au
Check out all of the incredible Women to Watch for 2024 here as their profiles are uploaded throughout the year.
To become an SA Woman Member, check out our Membership Options here.
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