Biz Wits: Sophie Chin, Jill Borland "ignore the headlines", "get out of your comfort zone" and please "don't panic!" His ideas struck a chord with the audience, some of whom were certain Christchurch was somewhat sheltered from the economic downturn. One group member asked for advice about chasing up debtors, saying it had become more and more difficult for her clients to pay on time recently. Chin, recipient of several gongs at Miss Mole's annual Chch Oscars Awards, told several stories of her ups and downs opening various cafes, and took questions from the group. One woman wanted to know how to succeed in the "old boys' business network" and the response made it clear that such a network would never dare mess with Sophie Chin. As the meeting wound down business cards were swapped and most attendees stayed at least an hour after the speeches ended to mix and mingle. Like the Gay Auckland Business Association and Rainbow Wellington, GBA meets monthly for social drinks. Their 'Thirsty Thursday' after work events are held on the first Thursday of each month at the Vespa Room in Poplar Street from 5:30pm. Members, guests and visitors to Chch are welcome. GBA Chch's website is under construction here. Christchurch Pride Week continues tonight with GayNZ.com's Forum Meet-Up at C1 Café and the Bears' Meet at Pommeroy's Wine Bar from 7pm. More information on Chch Pride Week is on its official website. Matt Akersten - 19th May 2009