Carmen Connell
Carmen is a resilient leader who made a bold leap into hospitality 10 years ago, driven by a personal loss and a desire to make a meaningful impact. After opening her first café and later selling it, she became a part of Dash Cakes, where she led a renovation and expansion aligned with a clear mission and vision.
Taking sole ownership of the business three and a half years ago, Carmen grew the team from 2 to 8 staff members in just 12 months. Her leadership emphasizes compassion, flexible work environments, and understanding her team’s motivations and goals, shifting the narrative around people and culture in hospitality.
As a single mother raising two daughters, Carmen has overcome personal challenges while continuing to grow her business. With a focus on understanding, focus, and adaptability, she has fostered resilience both personally and professionally. Carmen is passionate about inspiring others to embrace resilience in their own careers and lives.
Allison Jenvey
Allison Jenvey has been a key figure in the Border business community for many years. She is currently the Chair of the Wodonga Institute of TAFE Board, the Victorian TAFE Association Board, and BankWAW. Recently retired from her accounting firm, she has extensive experience working with small to medium-sized businesses.
As a past President of the Wodonga Chamber of Commerce, she has a deep understanding of the local business landscape. With a strong governance background, she has served on multiple boards, including Albury Wodonga Health and Rural Housing Network (now Beyond Housing).
Outside of work, she and her husband run a small beef cattle stud, and Allison is a past member of the governing council of the Australian Gelbvieh Association.
Allison is a self-confessed cricket tragic, and passionate Collingwood supporter!
Narelle Robinson
With 23 years in education and 24 in real estate, Narelle Robinson has built a career defined by strength and resilience. Overcoming personal hardships, including the Bali bombing and the recent loss of her business partner, Fran Wernert, Narelle has faced each challenge with unwavering determination.
In 2002, Narelle and Fran founded Ray White Wodonga in 2016, growing from a modest office to a successful agency with a dedicated team. After Fran’s sudden passing, Narelle took ownership of the business, driven to honor Fran’s legacy and uphold their shared values of honesty, integrity, and respect.
In the past year, Narelle merged Ray White Wodonga with Ray White Albury Rural & Livestock while maintaining a commitment to exceptional service. Her dedication has earned numerous accolades, including being named a Premier Agent, winning Rate My Agent for four years, and receiving Life Member status in 2024.