‘Empowered Giving for a Fairer Future’ is an inspiring new series of short videos from Australians Investing In Women featuring some of Australia’s most influential voices in philanthropy.

In episode 9 Lisa Keenan, Executive Director MECCA M-POWER, shares MECCA’s 27-year commitment to educating, empowering, and uplifting women and girls. Over the years, the company has employed around 15,000 women, providing careers in retail alongside education opportunities in artistry, financial literacy, customer service, and wellbeing. In 2017, MECCA launched MECCA M-POWER to extend its impact beyond business, and in 2022, on its 25th anniversary, pledged $25 million over five years to support gender equality.

This initiative funds over 21 not-for-profit organisations, offers leadership training and networking opportunities, and leverages MECCA’s platform to amplify voices in the gender equality space. Lisa highlights the value of corporate philanthropy and partnerships, learning from grassroots organisations, policy experts, and those with lived experience. She acknowledges the contributions of leaders like Julie Reilly, Carol Schwartz, Melinda French Gates, and MacKenzie Scott, particularly in championing gender-focused and unrestricted funding. Mecca’s approach emphasises collective impact, recognising that business, government, and community organisations must work together to drive change. Founded on Jo Horgan’s belief in the power of educating and empowering women, MECCA fosters an internal culture where its team is deeply engaged with the program. With almost 100% awareness among team members staff and a growing community of informed customers—totalling 4.5 million Australians—MECCA is dedicated to driving progress towards gender equality.

Watch the series here.