April 23, 2015
Kate Williams, Nodo Donuts
At a Glance
Bio The path that led her to this point
I've always had a passion for the hospitality industry. After high school I studied hospitality (food and beverage) at TAFE and then continued on to complete a diploma in Events Management, while working part time managing a cafe.
After completing my diploma I applied for a job as events co-ordinator at an exhibition and events company. I wasn't successful for this position but they thought I would be perfect for another role... so I began working as a marketing coorindator.
I fell in love with marketing and wanted to progress in this field. I looked at my mentors who had all completed university, and decided if I was to be successful in this industry I'd need to also start uni.
I studied part-time over six years and it was a very proud moment when I graduated.
All the jobs I've had over the years have been preparing me to run my own business. I always knew I would work for myself, but the timing had to be right.
The idea for Nodo came to me like a light-bulb moment and I couldn't think about anything else.
I was obsessed with donuts and started building the brand, developing recipes and different flavour combinations. Hardly work if you ask me!
I am still in the early phases of building my business, but I have big plans for the future.
Q&A Insider advice & tips
What's been your greatest achievement to date?
For me, launching my own business is really the greatest achievement of all.
What's been your biggest challenge so far?
Taking risks.
Best lesson you've learned along the way?
Trust your instincts; surround yourself with inspirational and supportive people; network - don't be afraid to talk to people about your business, it's amazing where these contacts can lead.
A website, book or resource that has helped you in your business or inspired you and why?
Social media. There are so many amazing products, people and businesses online. It's the best resource for inspiration, information and sourcing new exciting products.
Which person or brand do you most admire and why?
Boost Juice. Evidence of good branding that has a loyal following has adapted to different market trends and has stood the test of time.
What advice would you give someone starting an independent business in your industry?
It's a massive investment starting a new business so you have to be passionate about what you are doing. I always think about the quote "Choose a job you love and you'll never work a day in your life". So true.
Finish this sentence
Everything changed for me when…
Everything changed for me when I started to get feedback from the public. People purchasing and requesting my products, who weren't family and friends. Not to say the support and encouragement I have received from family and friends hasn't been amazing and helped me get to where I am to be able to launch Nodo, but when you start to get acknowledgement from outside your circle you gain more confidence in your product and that's when all your hard work pays off.
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