Discover the Power of Building Your Own Community

Today, more than ever, people are seeking ways to connect, grow, and share their passions, whether it’s a volunteer community for a not for profit organisation, a business owner who wants an income stream by creating a membership community, a sports club, a technical group, or those seeking to belong to a leadership group. Building a space where like-minded individuals can come together has immense power, and it’s often overlooked because many simply don't know where to begin or lack the know-how.

Having spent years cultivating and nurturing communities across different spheres, I've seen firsthand how they can create opportunities, spark growth, and transform journeys. From building an art and craft community that inspired creativity, connecting parents within a school environment to foster support, to establishing a thriving business network, I’ve witnessed the incredible value that a strong community brings. Here’s how being part of or creating a community can open up a world of possibilities for you and others.

1. Collaboration and Partnerships

One of the most valuable, yet underappreciated, opportunities in any community is the ability to build meaningful collaborations. When I started an art and craft community, it wasn’t just about sharing skills; it was about bringing together people with diverse creative talents to collaborate on projects, exchange ideas, and inspire one another. I created an environment where stallholders felt connected, visible and had opportunity to surround themselves with like-minded others and where creativity thrived.

2. Learning and Knowledge Sharing

A thriving community becomes a hub of shared knowledge and experiences. As a parent and teacher actively involved in a school community, I experienced how valuable it was to create a safe space for parents to share advice, resources, and insights. We learned from each other’s experiences, which not only helped us navigate the challenges of parenting but also fostered a sense of support and belonging. This sense of shared learning can be applied to any community, whether it’s a technical group, a sports team, or a business network.

The more you invest in your community, the more you’ll gain in return.

3. Expanding Your Network

Communities provide an incredible opportunity to expand your network beyond your regular contacts. When I established a business community, it wasn’t just about meeting new people; it was about forming genuine connections that led to mentorships, collaborations, and even lifelong friendships. Many members have told me that the connections they made through the community were instrumental in their professional growth and success.

4. Access to Opportunities and Referrals

One of the greatest advantages of being part of a community is the access to opportunities that arise through referrals. In the business community I’ve built, many members have found new clients, collaborators, and even job opportunities simply because they established themselves as reliable, trustworthy contributors. When you actively participate and share your expertise, others are more likely to refer you to their contacts.

The more you contribute, the more likely others will be to refer you when opportunities come their way.

5. Accountability and Support

Being part of a community means you don’t have to go it alone. It is about creating a support network where you can celebrate wins, share challenges, and hold each other accountable. A sense of belonging applies to any community—having others who genuinely care about your progress and goals can be incredibly motivating.

The Key to Unlocking These Opportunities

The opportunities within any community are endless, but they require active engagement, a willingness to contribute, and a genuine interest in building relationships. It’s not just about what you can gain but also about how you can help others grow.

My journey of building an art and craft community, connecting parents in a school environment, and nurturing a business network has shown me that the true power of a community lies in its ability to bring people together, to support each other, and to create something greater than the sum of its parts. At the end of this month, we will celebrate eleven years of the Your Time Matters Business networking community and reflect on the successes and learning of the past year and what the future may hold. Perhaps you would like to join us for dinner?

Or as the new year approaches, and you’re ready to explore the potential within a community—whether you want to create one or become a more active participant—let’s start a conversation. Your next opportunity, friendship, or breakthrough might just be one connection away.

Here’s to exploring the incredible power of community!

Warm regards,

Kerryn Powell

PS. I really value this testimonial from Dr. Jing Ye, following our dinner event in July- "Being welcomed into this special community was a truly enriching experience. Connecting with so many individuals who share authentic stories and diverse professional experiences was opened new perspectives and built meaningful bridges." If you would like to join us or need some assistance in building your own community, book a call here