Danica Bunch is a Public Relations and Strategic Communications professional with an acumen for business strategy, crisis management leadership support and coaching. Danica is a strong networker and influencer, adept at building relationships that enhance her effectiveness in achieving outcomes for her clients.
Personally, Danica is a mother of two, old ballerina and spin class tragic. Her life has taken a turn with a recent health crisis and she is pivoting her business to include being an advocate for fundamental change in women’s health. She is author of the soon to be released book “She. Has Breast Cancer”, where she has turned her 20 years of training and craft and applied the same framework to regain control, face and understand the concept of uncertainty, recognise the impact on identity and to reach a place of strength and resilience.
When did you start your business?
Year 2020
What was the inspiration behind starting this business?
The inspiration to start my business stemmed from a desire to revolutionise the PR industry. Recognising the need for authentic and comprehensive communication strategies, I aimed to create a consultancy that defied industry norms. With a vision of fostering positive change and challenging the status quo, I sought to provide clients with strategic PR solutions that were ethical, sustainable, and impactful. This drive to reshape the PR landscape and amplify authentic voices laid the groundwork for my business’s inception.
What are you most excited about in your business?
I’m most excited about the opportunity to empower and reshape industries through my business. Witnessing the transformative impact of our work, from guiding individuals through crises to helping companies and industries adopt innovative approaches, fuels my passion. Additionally, the prospect of expanding our reach and partnering with diverse organisations to promote change excites me. I find immense fulfilment in creating meaningful connections, fostering growth, and contributing to a future where voices are heard, perspectives are valued, and positive change is embraced.
What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?
The most challenging aspect of launching my business was navigating the entrenched norms within the PR industry and corporate sector. Often, I encountered resistance from individuals who held narrow perspectives and were reluctant to embrace innovative approaches. Many seemed fixated on the “way things had always been done.” Overcoming this required determination and the ability to communicate the value of fresh perspectives and disruptive thinking.
Yet, an even greater hurdle emerged when I faced a health crisis. This unexpected challenge tested my resilience and determination. Balancing personal well-being with the demands of running a business was a tough feat. However, this experience served as a profound reminder of the need to advocate for change, not only in industries but also within the broader societal context. It reinforced my commitment to empowering women, amplifying diverse voices, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and support.
In retrospect, overcoming these obstacles has enriched my journey as an entrepreneur. They’ve strengthened my resolve to challenge status quo, disrupt traditional norms, and forge a path that aligns with my vision. These challenges underscore the importance of pushing boundaries, and they fuel my determination to create lasting impact through my business endeavours.
What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?
To my fellow women considering taking the leap into entrepreneurship, I want to share a narrative of insights that I’ve gathered on my own journey:
Picture this: you stand on the precipice of a new venture, a path untrodden. It’s natural to feel that flicker of doubt, the “Can I really do this?” whisper. Embrace that doubt, but don’t let it define you. From my own experience, I can tell you this journey will test your mettle, but it’s also where your true strength shines.
When I started my business, I encountered hurdles that I didn’t quite anticipate. In an industry steeped in tradition and sometimes resistant to change, I found myself facing skepticism. Some entrenched voices told me, “This is how we’ve always done it.” But I knew that my fresh perspective and innovative approach had the power to transform the landscape.
Then came an unexpected twist in my story – a health crisis. The very foundation I was building on seemed to tremble. But in that tumult, I found a revelation: strength can be born from vulnerability. It was from this place of uncertainty that I realised my mission was not just to build a business, but to champion resilience and empower women navigating their own crises.
So, my advice to you, fellow trailblazers, is this:
Believe in your unique vision, even when others might not see it yet. Your perspective, your insights, they matter. When you harness that conviction, you’ll see the doubters gradually turn into believers.
Forge connections. Surround yourself with a network of supporters, mentors, and peers. Their wisdom and encouragement will be your guiding lights.
Embrace setbacks as stepping stones. Each challenge is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow stronger. Trust me, the obstacles you conquer will become part of your unique story of success.
And never forget self-care. The entrepreneurial path can be demanding, and nurturing your well-being is vital. A balanced, well-cared-for you is the most potent foundation for your journey.
In the end, remember that your journey is not just about starting a business. It’s about creating a legacy, leaving an indelible mark. Your journey is a canvas where you paint your vision of innovation, empowerment, and change.
So, step boldly, dream big, and know that your journey as a woman entrepreneur is part of a tapestry that inspires, uplifts, and drives transformation – for yourself and the world around you.
Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?
The AusMumpreneur Awards, a journey that unfolded unexpectedly. While I didn’t initially set out to join this prestigious platform, I found myself humbled and exhilarated as I was nominated by the incredible women in my network. Their recognition and encouragement pushed me to embrace this opportunity and shine a light on the path I’ve embarked upon.
Being cheered on by fellow female entrepreneurs and mums, who understand the intricate balance of juggling business aspirations and family commitments, has been truly heartwarming. It’s a testament to the power of supportive communities and the strength that can be drawn from our connections.
This journey is about more than just personal recognition; it’s about showcasing the transformative impact that women can have in business, in our communities, and in our own lives. The AusMumpreneur Awards celebrate the spirit of innovation, determination, and resilience that define us as women entrepreneurs.
So, while this might not have been a path I initially planned for, I am excited to embrace the unexpected and share the narrative of my journey. It’s a chance to amplify the message that as women, as mothers, and as entrepreneurs, we have a unique strength that can drive change, challenge norms, and leave a lasting legacy.
What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
Being part of the AusMumpreneur Awards has been an eye-opening and enriching experience that has allowed me to see myself and my journey in a whole new light. One of the most enjoyable aspects has been the opportunity to step back and reflect on my path, recognising the achievements and impact that might have been overshadowed by the daily hustle.
Through the support and recognition of the AusMumpreneur community, I was able to gain a fresh perspective on my journey and my business. It’s easy to get caught up in the grind, always striving for the next goal, and sometimes forgetting to celebrate how far we’ve come. The awards forced me to pause and truly see what others saw – the determination, the innovation, and the unwavering commitment that have brought me to this point.
This experience has been a powerful reminder of the importance of acknowledging our own achievements and giving ourselves credit for the progress we’ve made. It has allowed me to not only appreciate my journey but also to share it with others, offering inspiration and encouragement to fellow entrepreneurs who might be on a similar path.
Being part of the awards has created a sense of camaraderie and connection with a community of women who are all navigating the intricate balance of business and motherhood. It’s a space where we can celebrate each other’s victories, learn from our challenges, and collectively empower one another to push boundaries and chase our dreams.
What surprised you most about the awards?
What surprised me the most about the AusMumpreneur Awards was the incredible sense of support, camaraderie, and empowerment that permeated the entire experience. While I entered the awards with the intention of celebrating the achievements of fellow entrepreneurs, I was truly amazed by the genuine encouragement and enthusiasm that everyone shared.
How did the awards help you in your business?
The AusMumpreneur Awards have had a profound impact on both me and my business. One of the most significant ways it has helped me is by reigniting my sense of excitement and purpose. Being surrounded by a community of driven and inspiring women who are all making waves in their respective fields has been incredibly motivating. It reminded me of the broader impact my business can have and rekindled my passion for driving positive change.
What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?
Do it!
What has been the best thing about starting your own business?
Building my own venture from the ground up has allowed me to shape the direction of my career, define my values, and pursue my passions with unwavering dedication. The ability to set my own goals, establish my unique approach, and drive meaningful change in my industry has been incredibly fulfilling.
My business has provided a platform for personal growth and continuous learning. Every challenge I encounter serves as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and innovate. The journey of entrepreneurship has pushed me to step outside my comfort zone, develop new skills, and overcome obstacles with resilience and creativity.
The autonomy to create a flexible work-life balance has also been invaluable. As a mother, entrepreneur, and regional businesswoman, being able to structure my days in a way that aligns with my priorities and responsibilities has been a game-changer. This balance allows me to fully engage in both my business and personal life, fostering a sense of fulfilment and well-being.
Witnessing the positive impact my business has on my clients and the broader community has been another highlight. Seeing the transformational change in individuals and organisations as a result of our strategic communication and crisis management expertise is incredibly rewarding. It reinforces the purpose behind my work and the potential to make a lasting difference.
What’s happening next in your business?
The next exciting chapter in my business journey involves further expanding my platform as a catalyst for positive change, particularly for women navigating significant life crises. Building upon the momentum generated by my recently released book “She. Has Breast Cancer,” I am dedicated to creating a powerful speaking platform and coaching angle. This initiative aims not only to sell the book but to empower women to navigate any life challenge with resilience, strength, and clarity.
This pivot is driven by my personal experience of facing a health crisis and the subsequent realisation that my skills in crisis management, strategic communication, and advocacy could be channeled to support and empower others. I am passionate about leveraging my journey to inspire and guide women through their own trials, fostering growth, empowerment, and well-being.
I am committed to advancing the cause of women’s health and well-being on a larger scale. Collaborating with health organisations to train their frontline staff in crisis communication underscores my commitment to making a tangible impact. This initiative not only enhances the capabilities of healthcare professionals but also ensures that women receive the empathetic and supportive care they deserve during challenging times.
As I continue this journey, I am thrilled to further cultivate my role as a female leader, not just in the realms of PR and crisis management, but as a North Star guiding women towards strength, resilience, and purpose. Through speaking engagements, coaching, and strategic partnerships, I intend to create a network of empowered women who can navigate life’s storms with confidence and grace.
What are your big plans for the future?
Looking ahead, my vision for the future encompasses not only the growth of my health-focused initiatives but also the scaling of DanicaB PR Collective, my PR business. Drawing on my over 20 years of experience in government, I am particularly excited about expanding our offerings to include government relations packages and comprehensive training programs for government representatives and staff members.
With a deep understanding of the intricacies of government operations and communication strategies, I am confident in our ability to provide tailored solutions that enable government bodies to effectively engage with their constituents and stakeholders. These government relations packages will leverage our expertise to facilitate transparent and impactful communication, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
Furthermore, having served in various roles within government, I recognize the significance of upskilling government representatives and staff members to navigate the complexities of public service. Leveraging my experience, DanicaB PR Collective will offer comprehensive training programs that equip individuals with the necessary communication skills, crisis management techniques, and strategic thinking to excel in their roles.
As I pivot my career to further support women’s health and well-being, I see these initiatives as interconnected pathways to create meaningful change. By scaling both my health-focused ventures and PR business, I aim to inspire resilience, empower individuals, and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society.
What is your website and/or social media links?
