In a conversation with NITV Radio, Matthew Karakoulakis reflected on the significance of the accolade acknowledging the recognition comes at a momentous time; in the sidelines of Indigenous Business Month (October) and the failed referendum on Indigenous Voice to Parliament.
He said the recognition offers a moment to pause and appreciate the collective journey.
"I can’t take full recognition because the accolade is about the amazing team, the amazing people that have supported me. I think it is important to have a team of people you can look up to as leaders who can encourage us, my Mob; other Indigenous people as well. We are in this journey together as a community," Matthew Karakoulakis said.