3 minute read
ROOTED IN FAMILY VALUES: The Creative Collective journey
BY YVETTE ADAMS
On October 5, 2024, I celebrated 20 years of living in Australia. For almost 18 of those years, I’ve proudly been a business owner on the Sunshine Coast.
The Creative Collective’s journey has been deeply intertwined with the concept of family, both literally and metaphorically. In the early days, I met Katrina ‘Kat’ Lees, who started as an intern and quickly became an invaluable team member. She later transitioned to contractor, franchisee and, since 2014, my business partner.
Our journey together has been one of shared growth and mutual support, navigating through life’s challenges—separations, health scares, and the joys and trials of raising children. Kat is now like family to me, and the involvement of our actual family members only strengthens that bond.
Both of our sisters have contributed significantly to the business over the years, helping shape the company we are today. My younger brother has also been a guiding force, serving on our board of advisors. An old friend from Wellington, whom I consider an older brother, has provided invaluable advice. Another dear friend, Bec, has been a loyal and longserving colleague for almost a decade. These family connections have been instrumental in building a successful business and a supportive and resilient team culture.
While we are commercially focused and have enjoyed great success, our company culture is equally important to us, and we invest in it consistently. Traditions are at the heart of this culture. At our annual Christmas party, we play Pakkeleg, a Danish gift-giving and gift-stealing game. Each business owner takes our staff for one-on-one lunches at least once a year, and we hold an annual gathering—a kind of family holiday—to reset and redefine our direction and purpose.
We celebrate victories and face challenges together, fostering a culture of transparency and team consultation. More than just professional colleagues, we are a team committed to our company and the values that define us.
Recognition is a big part of what we do. We have a rewards thread where team members praise each other for acts of kindness, like ‘staying late to help with a deadline’ or ‘having my back in a difficult meeting.’ We also have a winning thread where we share personal achievements, from parent brags and holiday snaps to client wins.
Your business can create a sense of belonging, especially for those new to the area—not just for those running it but for everyone involved.
As I approach two decades in Australia and nearly 18 years as a business owner, the importance of family—both in business and life—has never been clearer. The Creative Collective’s journey is a testament to the power of family values, not just within our current team but also with past team members and clients we’ve had the privilege of working with.
We’ve navigated generational challenges, embraced diversity, and maintained a culture that prioritises kindness, trust, and respect.
Our success isn’t just measured in financial terms but in the lasting relationships we’ve built. These are the ties that bind us through the inevitable ups and downs, creating a sense of belonging for everyone involved.
For those venturing into business, my advice is simple: identify and honour your values, embrace change, and continually invest in your people. In doing so, you’ll build more than just a business—you’ll create a legacy that endures.
Visit our website to book your discovery session.
www.thecreativecollective.com.au
