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.
Hello, I’m Natalie, a dedicated mother to two wonderful young adults, a supportive wife, and the CEO of an electronics manufacturing company. Alongside my corporate role, I am also a registered counsellor, this has enabled me to blend evidence-based strategies with chosen embodied wisdom practices, resulting in a life consisting of greater meaning, purpose, and balance.
My journey as a CEO has been marked by profound growth, formidable challenges, and notable success within the manufacturing industry. With a focus on our people, strategy and commitment to Australian manufacturing I take great pride in our reputation, quality and customer service. Through navigating life’s trials, I’ve intimately experienced the throes of feeling overwhelmed, and stuck. Recognising the toll this can take which can manifest as low energy, disrupted sleep, headaches, digestive issues, and other health concerns, I made the decision to pursue further studies in counselling to expand my professional toolkit.
Balancing two demanding careers, I allocate 50% of my time to each endeavour, driven by a profound passion for supporting local businesses, championing mental health, and providing care wherever possible. I’m committed to excelling in both realms, despite the ongoing challenge it presents.
My mission is clear: to share my hard-earned insights through valued business connections and to help others reclaim their time and alleviate their burdens with my counselling services. By leveraging my expertise and experiences, I aspire to guide individuals towards lives they truly love.
// Favourite inspirational quote
Peace is this moment without judgement in the heart space, where everything that is, is welcome.
// Let’s get to know you
Hi, I’m Natalie, the Chief Executive Officer at Coiltek Manufacturing, my journey thus far has been one of continued growth, challenge, insight, and self-discovery. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of learning from respected strategic mentors, whose guidance has underscored the importance of working on, rather than just in, the business. Their focused mentorship has provided clarity and aided in the growth of my confidence. By taking this strategic view I have been able to assist with the sustainable profitable growth for the company.
Our commitment to our people and community has always been at the forefront, nurturing a culture where our 15-strong team thrives, this is exemplified by our support of local business and where possible international aid efforts, such as supplying school essentials to underprivileged communities in Africa. In 2017, Coiltek was recognised with an esteemed Manufacturing Export Award by the Technology Industry Australia, highlighting our contributions to the export market in manufacturing and technology.
However, my journey now extends beyond the boardroom; four years ago, I embarked on a path of personal and professional enrichment, delving into further studies in counselling, mindfulness practices, and meditation. These additional skills have not only enhanced my leadership capabilities but have also enriched my roles as a wife, parent, counsellor, and compassionate individual. I’m deeply committed to fostering a culture of empathy, support, and understanding within Coiltek and Alite Mind (my counselling business), driven by a passion for care and uplifting others but most of all making a positive impact in not only my life but all those who I engage with.
// What makes you a Women to Watch for 2024?
There is such a genuine need for greater mental health support which is the “WHY” behind my journey to advance my professional skills and knowledge to become a registered counsellor – mindfulness and meditation practitioner. Specialising in supporting women’s mental health and I also have a keen interest in providing specialised mental health support for our young people.
With these new skills I am able to provide greater support and understanding for my Coiltek team and as a counselor in private practice I can reach women who can benefit from my empathetic and caring nature. Even though the juggle to sustain and divide my time between two businesses is incredibly demanding my passion to be able to provide support and care is the continued driving force behind this.
To be nominated means the world to me and I am filled with gratitude.
// What is your goal or intention for the year ahead? And how are you going to achieve it?
In 2024, my primary aim is to deepen my expertise, particularly in the realm of mental health, to better support both my team at Coiltek and my counseling clients. Within my counseling business, I’m dedicated to expanding awareness of how my services can positively impact clients, while also forging partnerships with like-minded holistic health providers to mutually elevate our businesses and, most importantly, enhance client care.
At Coiltek, diversification has been a key focus for the past five years, with 2024 marking a pivotal moment in our growth strategy. By fostering meaningful connections and nurturing long-term relationships through networking events, expos, and travel, I aim to engage with fellow business professionals, share insights, and uncover opportunities for collaborative community advancement.
// If you could share one takeaway from your business or career journey, what would it be?
Build your team, don’t be afraid to pivot and always manage your cash flow.
// What would you like to see for the future of South Australian women and girls?
There are several impactful ideas that I believe could be further developed to shape a positive future for women and girls in South Australia:
1. Greater focus and education on promoting gender equality in the workforce and leadership positions.
2. Encouraging women’s participation in STEM fields and other traditionally male-dominated industries.
3. Nurturing a culture of empowerment and self-confidence through mentorship and support networks. Making it easier to access.
4. Recognising and celebrating the diverse talents, experiences, and contributions of women and girls in society.
5. This one is especially important to me – Providing greater resources and programs to help women and girls thrive in all aspects of life. Group programs to focus on positive mindset, growth and investing in the reinvigoration and development of community mentality.
Get in touch with Natalie:
LinkedIn: Natalie Michels
Website: www.alitemind.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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