For 38 years, Devonport businesswoman Carla Pizzirani-Rand has experienced the highs and lows of running a business and believes being passionate and having a thirst for education are the keys to success.

As this year’s Devonport City Council’s Diamonds of Devonport ambassador, Carla hopes to inspire the next generation of pioneers, some of whom will be recognised at the awards ceremony on Tuesday, 8 March, International Women’s Day.

The annual awards have celebrated more than 267 local women over the past 10 years, and Carla, owner of the Face Bar, said it is an honour to be chosen as this year’s ambassador.

“I’m very humbled to be this year’s Diamonds of Devonport ambassador and hope I do this honour justice. It’s nice to be recognised for what you do as we often don’t think about it, we just get on with our day-to-day roles,” Carla said.

“One of the best things I ever did for my business was to have a mentor, who helped me stay accountable and provided the insight that I needed.

“I have also never stopped training and learning, it’s important for my staff and for me. I’m always looking for different courses and strategies and I also make sure I listen to the younger generation, and their ideas.”

Starting out in the beauty industry in 1984 in her hometown of East Devonport, Carla has opened several successful salons and worked alongside some great mentors, including her first boss who helped her open her first salon.

Carla said she has been fortunate to experience the positive changes of Devonport firsthand and believes the city is well placed for future growth.

“I think the city right now is the best it’s ever been – for me personally I’m always seeing new things and young people are coming here to live. We’re seeing new and unique businesses opening. Devonport is moving forward and that’s a reflection on the booming real estate market,” Carla said.

“LIVING CITY has definitely been at the forefront of that growth. My parents migrated to Devonport from Italy in 1964, at a time when they couldn’t even purchase fresh pasta in the town. They had to travel to Launceston or Hobart for any continental foods.

“Today we are spoilt for choice with beautiful restaurants and cafes. The lifestyle here is really enviable, we are lucky.”

Event patron, Devonport Mayor Annette Rockliff initiated the Diamonds of Devonport in 2012, and said Carla was a shining example of what hard work and dedication can achieve.

With nominations still open, Cr Rockliff encouraged the community to get their nominations in and help find the next Diamonds of Devonport.

“If you know an extraordinary woman of Devonport that deserves a nomination in this year’s Diamonds of Devonport, please nominate them,” Cr Rockliff said.

“Carla is a true leader in her industry and has encouraged and supported many women coming through. Her passion for investing in others is inspiring and we could all learn how to be better and empowering and encouraging those around us to shine.”

Cr Rockliff said unfortunately, due to COVID, this year’s Speakers Forum would not be held, however Council will confirm if the annual program of events will still go ahead.

Nominations will be accepted in the following categories:

• Personal Achievement
• Business Achievement
• Community Achievement
• Young Achiever (under 30 years)

Nominations close at 5pm on Monday, 7 February 2022 and can be made via Council’s website at www.devonport.tas.gov.au/live/your-community/community-services/diamonds-of-devonport/

This year’s finalists will be acknowledged at a cocktail event held on Tuesday, 8 March at 6pm at the paranaple convention centre. Tickets will be available via from Council’s website from Tuesday, 8 February 2022.