
In this inspiring episode, we explore the remarkable journey of Sally-Ann Williams, CEO of Cicada Innovations, Australia's leading deep tech incubator. From her early days working in her family's fruit shop in Queensland to becoming the first in her family to graduate from high school and university, Sally-Ann's path exemplifies resilience and determination. Sally-Ann shares how her upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of business fundamentals. She reflects on her tenure at Google, where she led significant R&D collaborations and championed STEM education initiatives. Now, at the helm of Cicada Innovations, she advocates for deep tech innovation in Australia, supporting startups that tackle global challenges through science and engineering. Throughout the conversation, Sally-Ann discusses the importance of authenticity in leadership, balancing personal and professional life, and her vision for fostering innovation. She also highlights some of the exciting startups under Cicada's wing, showcasing the future of deep tech in Australia. This episode offers valuable insights for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs, emphasizing the power of resilience and the impact of deep tech innovation. Connect with Sally-Ann Williams: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sallyannw Learn more about Cicada Innovations: Website: cicadainnovations.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/cicada-innovations Twitter: twitter.com/CicadaInnovate Facebook: facebook.com/CicadaInnovations Instagram: instagram.com/cicadainnovations