Inside the ANZ program transforming women in broking

Ruth Van Eekelen walked away from this year's Doyenne initiative feeling energized and confident.  

"My biggest takeaway from the program was how powerful it feels to be genuinely supported. Feeling held and encouraged allowed me to truly step into my own leadership," Van Eekelen, Melbourne-based franchise owner and broker at Aussie Home Loans, told Australian Broker. 

ANZ's 2025 Doyenne Women in Broking program is a free professional development series for female brokers. Originally launched in 2018, The program was revamped in 2024 with the help of Jane Counsel, founder and chief coach at Sydney-based coaching firm Thrive4Women. The 2025 version empowered women to fast-track their careers in a male-dominated industry.

During this year's seven-week program, female brokers from across the country networked, swapped insights and learned strategies to learn how to stand out in finance. And with roughly 250 applicants competing for just 30 spots, it’s clear the Doyenne program is in high demand and making an impact on participants.

In a multi-part series, Australian Broker caught up with the people behind the program, including Van Eekelen, to explore its impact, key takeaways and why more women should consider joining. 

AB: How did you hear about the Doyenne Program? And what made you want to join? 

RV: I first learned about the program at an International Women’s Day networking event where Sally Nathan from ANZ introduced it. She invited anyone who was interested to reach out for more information. I felt drawn to it right away. I remember driving home afterward and calling my husband to tell him how inspired I felt and that I was going to apply. 

AB: Did you have to apply? What was the application process like? 

RV: The application process involved submitting an expression of interest and sharing why I wanted to be considered. I spoke with my BDM about ways I could strengthen my application, because I truly believed in the opportunity and a key reminder was that when an opportunity appears it is important to reach for it. Opportunities rarely land neatly without effort. When we speak up and lean in we give ourselves the chance to grow and to create something wonderful.

AB: What was the biggest takeaway from the program? What did the program mean to you? 

RV: My biggest takeaway from the program was how powerful it feels to be genuinely supported. Feeling held and encouraged allowed me to truly step into my own leadership. At the beginning of the year, I had set a goal to focus not only on leadership development, but also on self awareness and understanding what it feels like to be on the receiving end of my energy. The program helped me explore both of these intentions in such a meaningful way.

AB: What were some of the tangible lessons, tips and practical advice you learned during the program? 

RV: We learned practical tools and insights that have stayed with me. One of the most impactful lessons was understanding our strengths and recognising that while they are a gift, they can also become overwhelming if we lean too heavily into them. Finding balance has been incredibly empowering.

AB: Would you recommend the program to others? And if so, why? What would you tell women who are thinking about joining the next cohort? 

RV: I wholeheartedly recommend this program. The connection and community that has formed among the women involved is something very special. We have created relationships that I believe will continue for many years.

AB: Why is it important for women to be involved in community-based activities like this in the finance and broking industry? 

RV: When women come together, we lift each other up. That has been so evident in this cohort. I have watched each participant grow, feel supported and step into their confidence in such a short amount of time.

AB: Do you think there's enough representation of female brokers in Australia? 

RV: I believe there is increasing representation of female brokers in the industry. Aggregators are actively creating pathways and support to encourage women to feel welcomed and empowered. While there is always room for continued progress, I can genuinely see the positive effort being made. Of all the industries I’ve been involved in, I feel the most supported in this one.

AB: What unique strengths or perspectives do you think female brokers bring to the industry?

RV: Women bring unique strengths to our industry, including empathy, compassion and presence. These qualities can mean so much to clients, particularly single parents who may be starting again, or simply needing to feel heard and understood. Knowing they are seen and supported can make all the difference.