True leadership isn’t just about guiding a team—it’s about creating a legacy that empowers others to reach their fullest potential. This philosophy resonates deeply with Colleen Callander, a visionary leader who has dedicated her life to transforming not only businesses but also the lives of those she encounters.

Colleen Callander, an award-winning former CEO, keynote speaker, two-time author, and founder of Callander & Co. & Mentor Me Women, embodies a passion for empowering leaders. With a career spanning over three decades in the fashion retail industry, she has now embarked on a mission to inspire and uplift individuals worldwide. Her ventures, Callander & Co. and Human Elevation, emphasize leadership, personal growth, and strategic transformation, aiming to help people unlock their potential. Here, we explore her insights and reflections on leadership, her experiences, and the values that guide her.

A Three-Decade Journey of Leadership

Reflecting on her career path, Colleen Callander shared how her journey in the fashion retail industry shaped her into a confident leader. “My journey in the fashion retail industry spans over three decades, with 20 of those years dedicated to the iconic brands Sportsgirl and Sussan, where I had the privilege of serving as CEO for 13 years,” she recalls. This experience provided her with a unique blend of knowledge, gained not only from the boardrooms but also from interactions with team members on the shop floors. Colleen’s leadership philosophy is not grounded in theory alone but shaped by real-world experiences, making her guidance practical and transformative.

Her shift from corporate leadership to founding her own business marks a new chapter in her life, one centered on a broader mission: “Today, as a business advisor, keynote speaker, and founder of Mentor Me Women, I am passionate about sharing my story to inspire others to embrace their own life and leadership journey.” Through her two books, Leader by Design and Elevate, Colleen aims to empower readers to approach leadership with confidence, embracing the challenges and opportunities that come their way.

Founding Callander & Co.: A Vision for Empowerment

In 2020, Colleen established Callander & Co., a venture that reflects her desire to extend her influence beyond the organizations she previously led. “Callander & Co was established in 2020, marking the start of my next chapter to inspire, impact, and influence not just this generation, but the next,” she explains. The business encompasses a range of services, including keynote speaking, business advisory, and leadership development programs, aimed at fostering personal and professional growth.

Her initiative, Mentor Me Women, highlights her commitment to uplifting women in leadership roles. “Mentor Me Women is a passion project aimed at making mentorship affordable and accessible for women. This initiative stems from my belief in the need to uplift, empower, and support women leaders.” By offering a space for connection and mentorship, Colleen has created a platform where women can gain the confidence to navigate their leadership journeys.

Differentiating Through Authenticity

When asked about what sets her services apart, Colleen emphasizes the importance of her real-world experience and personal connection: “My approach is not just about professional development but about unlocking the full potential of individuals, teams, and organizations, empowering them to lead with confidence and achieve meaningful, lasting success.” Through tailored leadership programs and strategic advisory services, she collaborates with CEOs, executives, and entrepreneurs, helping them build high-performing teams and achieve cultural transformation.

She continues to leverage her extensive industry experience to help leaders refine their strategies, define organizational values, and explore team dynamics. “Whether it’s helping leaders explore team dynamics, set impactful goals, or define their organization’s values and purpose, I guide businesses through identifying growth opportunities and expanding their potential,” she adds.

Her new venture, Human Elevation, co-founded with Shannah Kennedy, exemplifies this philosophy. The company offers Elevate programs and masterclasses that aim to inspire individuals to reach new heights in life and leadership. “Our mission is to inspire and empower both individuals and organizations to unlock their full potential and reach new levels of success,” Colleen shares.

One particularly innovative initiative from Human Elevation is “Women Walking the World,” which offers a unique experience for women to blend personal growth with global exploration. “This journey takes women to stunning destinations around the world, offering the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, craft their future vision, and elevate their lives in meaningful ways. It’s more than just a walking adventure – it’s a transformative experience that fosters growth, resilience, and empowerment while reconnecting with nature.”

Navigating Industry Challenges

Colleen believes that the most significant challenges in the industry today stem from technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, and economic fluctuations. “Companies must stay agile and innovative to remain competitive,” she notes, emphasizing the importance of adaptability. However, she highlights a deeper challenge: creating workplaces that prioritize well-being and mental health. “With the increasing focus on employee well-being and mental health, organizations are being challenged to cultivate positive workplace cultures that foster engagement, purpose, and resilience.”

Her focus on leadership that embraces flexibility, innovation, and a people-first approach positions Callander & Co. and Human Elevation to thrive in these dynamic times. Their services are designed to equip leaders with the tools and strategies needed to succeed, even in an evolving landscape. “Leadership that embraces flexibility, innovation, and a people-first approach will be key to navigating this evolving landscape successfully.”

Future Goals

Colleen is clear about her aspirations for the next few years, aiming to expand the reach of Elevate into new markets. “Over the next three to five years, one of my key goals is to continue expanding the global reach of our book Elevate – Unlock Your Extraordinary Potential,” she shares. Following successful launches in Australia and the USA, she is now eyeing an expansion into India.

Her vision for Elevate extends beyond a book—she envisions a global community focused on connection, growth, and empowerment. To achieve this, she plans to introduce immersive masterclasses and seek strategic partnerships, ensuring that her message reaches diverse audiences across the world. “Our focus is on creating a global community that promotes connection, growth, and empowerment by continuously adapting our offerings to fit the needs of diverse cultures and industries,” she emphasizes.

Colleen is also committed to growing her Mentor Me Women program further, providing a space where women can connect, share their stories, and support each other. “Ultimately, my goal is to create a thriving community of empowered women and leaders who lead with confidence, purpose, and resilience – both in their careers and in life.”

Strengths, Risks, and Resilience

Colleen identifies her company’s biggest strength as its ability to connect deeply with clients, guiding them through personal and professional transformation. “The biggest strength of Callander & Co right now is the ability to connect deeply with both individuals and organizations through a unique blend of real-world leadership experience, personal connection, and a focus on transformative growth,” she notes. This approach allows her to foster a sense of authenticity and empowerment among those she mentors.

Reflecting on the risks she has taken, Colleen highlights her decision to leave behind a successful corporate career: “The most important risk I took was stepping away from a highly successful 30-year career in retail, including 13 years as CEO, to launch my own business.” This leap, though challenging, allowed her to broaden her reach and share her vision on a global platform. “It allowed me to broaden my reach, create deeper connections, and make a lasting impact beyond the organizations I once led,” she adds.

Leadership Philosophy

Colleen’s leadership philosophy is built on empathy, vulnerability, and kindness. “Empathy, vulnerability, and kindness are at the core of my leadership philosophy. Leading with vulnerability means showing up as your authentic self, flaws and all,” she explains. She believes that these traits are not weaknesses but rather strengths that enable leaders to build trust and inspire those around them. “Empathy allows you to truly connect with others, understand their struggles, and support them in their journey.”

Advice for Aspiring Leaders

When asked for advice to aspiring businesspeople, Colleen offers wisdom rooted in authenticity: “As a leader, my advice to aspiring businesspeople is to lead with authenticity, purpose, and confidence.” She emphasizes that success is not merely about reaching goals but about staying true to oneself and maintaining a strong connection to core values.

She encourages building strong relationships and seeking mentors who can provide guidance and support. “Leadership is about people, so always invest in those around you – whether it’s your team, your clients, or your community,” she advises. This focus on relationship-building aligns with her broader mission to create a community where leaders can thrive together.

“Be open to feedback, stay curious, and constantly evolve. Don’t just focus on professional success; prioritize your well-being and longevity.”

Conclusion

Colleen Callander’s journey from the boardrooms of iconic retail brands to founding her own business is a testament to her belief in the power of leadership, connection, and personal growth. Through Callander & Co., Human Elevation, and Mentor Me Women, she continues to impact lives, guiding individuals and organizations towards a future of confidence, resilience, and meaningful success. Her insights and experiences offer a valuable roadmap for those looking to lead with authenticity and make a lasting impact on the world. As she looks ahead, her vision for a global community of empowered leaders remains steadfast, driven by her unwavering commitment to inspire and elevate others.

Contact Info:

Email: colcallander@gmail.com

Website: www.colleencallander.com.au

Website: www.humanelevation.com.au