In this exclusive INGLOBE Magazine feature, we dive into the remarkable journey of Colleen Callander, an award-winning CEO, bestselling author, keynote speaker, business advisor, and the visionary founder behind Mentor Me Women. From leaving school at 16 to leading one of Australia’s most iconic retail brands for over a decade, Colleen’s story is a powerful example of what courage, confidence, and purpose-driven leadership can create. Today, she is shaping the next generation of leaders—particularly women—through her transformative programs, books, and advisory work.
A Journey Built on Courage, Curiosity & Confidence
Colleen’s professional journey began humbly as a young sales assistant at just 16 years old. What followed was a 30-year rise through the highly competitive retail world. She eventually spent 20 years working within the Sussan and Sportsgirl Group, including 13 years as CEO—a milestone she describes as both an honour and a calling.
Her leadership career wasn’t defined by titles, but by the impact she created: inspiring thousands, building thriving cultures, and transforming Sportsgirl into a brand synonymous with connection, confidence, and community.
Today, Colleen has stepped into a new chapter—one rooted in purpose, empowerment, and significance. As a bestselling author, advisor, and founder of Mentor Me Women, she now dedicates her career to helping others unlock their full potential.
Defining Moments That Shaped a Leader
Colleen’s appointment as CEO at age 36 remains one of the most pivotal moments of her journey. Leading a national brand with thousands of employees came with immense responsibility—and she embraced every part of it. Under her guidance, Sportsgirl became more than a fashion retailer; it became a movement about identity, empowerment, and culture.
Another defining moment came later: her deliberate decision to walk away from corporate life at the peak of success. That monumental choice opened the door to writing books, launching programs, and building a legacy focused on impact rather than position.
Her journey is a reminder that influence does not end when a role ends—in many cases, it is only the beginning.
The Birth of Mentor Me Women: A Movement of Empowerment
Mentor Me Women was created to fill the gap Colleen saw repeatedly throughout her career: brilliant, capable women not stepping into their potential due to lack of support, mentorship, or confidence.
Today, it is more than a program—it is a global community. Women have:
For Colleen, the real success lies not in numbers but in transformation. “When one woman rises, we all rise,” she says—a belief that sits at the core of everything she builds.
Leadership for a New Era
According to Colleen, today's leaders must prioritize purpose, empathy, adaptability, and courage. Effective leadership is no longer about authority—it’s about connection.
She believes leaders must:
For her, leadership is human, heart-driven, and rooted in genuine care for people.
An Author Elevating Confidence Worldwide
Colleen’s books—including Leader By Design, Elevate, and her upcoming releaseThe Power of Confidence—carry a universal message:Leadership starts from within.
Her latest book, releasing January 2026, dives deeper into transforming self-doubt into self-belief, helping readers rewrite their stories and step into their power with clarity, courage, and conviction.
Entrepreneurship with Purpose
To Colleen, entrepreneurship is a blend of vision, bravery, and discipline. True innovation, she believes, requires both imagination and strategy—creativity to dream big and structure to bring those dreams to life.
Every decision she makes is guided by three questions:
This balance is the foundation of sustainable, meaningful success.
Mentors, Values & Personal Philosophy
Colleen credits much of her grounding to her parents—her first role models. Their humility, discipline, and kindness shaped her identity as a leader and as a human being.
Her personal values—kindness, authenticity, courage, and balance—inform every decision she makes. Success, she says, is not about titles or accolades, but about:
Overcoming Burnout: A Turning Point
One of Colleen’s most significant challenges was burnout—a moment that forced her to face her limits, set boundaries, and define success on her own terms. It became the catalyst for her more intentional, purposeful chapter of life.Today, she openly shares her story so others can recognize the signs early and prioritise wellbeing without guilt.
Championing the Future of Women in Leadership
Colleen envisions a future where women are not just included in leadership, but central to decision-making, innovation, and global transformation. Through Mentor Me Women, corporate partnerships, and keynote speaking, she is actively shaping that future—one empowered leader at a time.She doesn’t just walk through doors; she holds them open for the next generation.
Her Message to the Next Generation
Colleen’s advice to aspiring leaders is simple yet powerful:
Leadership, she reminds us, is not a title.It is how you show up for yourself and others every day.
