Hosted by 33 Creative, an Aboriginal media, communications & events company, the 'Celebrating Leadership' event held at Customs House in Sydney brought together members of the Indigenous corporate and media sector to acknowledge the successes and challenges faced by Indigenous businesses and share wisdom that has been learnt along the way.
On the discussion panel was Marlee Silva, the inaugural Co-CEO of AIME, Rod Little the Co-Chairperson of National Congress of Australia's First Peoples, Steve Satour, Director of Iwara Travel company and Kristy Masella, CEO of the Aboriginal Employment Strategy (AES).
MC Mayrah Sonter opened up the discussion with Rod Little, who shared his knowledge about the values of Indigenous businesses. Creating a support network and meeting challenges were key points. Little told NITV that there are strengths that only an Indigenous business can offer to the mainstream. 'Indigenous entrepreneurs' have "unquestionable passion and commitment to not just self growth and wealth, but to their peoples, culture and communities." His advice to any Indigenous person wanting to get in to business is simple. "Trust your judgements. Explore possibilities and learn from mistakes," adding that a network is equally important. "Reach out to brothers and sisters in business to support and receive support. Meet the fears of starting up a business head on."
MC Mayrah Sonter with panel members at the 2nd Annual Indigenous Business Month 'Celebrating Leadership' - Sydney 25th October. Photo: Joseph Myers. Source: 33 Creative
Steven Satour, Director of Iwara Travel shared his experiences of starting up his own business in the tourism sector, a dream he has had since he started working in the industry as a teenager. When asked why he loves what he does, Satour shared several reasons. "Getting to learn about other countries and cultures all across Australia, seeing how we are the same, different and connected both traditionally and in today's world. Also seeing visitors perspectives and understanding of Indigenous Australia shift positively is really rewarding."
Getting to learn about other countries and cultures all across Australia, seeing how we are the same, different and connected both traditionally and in today's world. Seeing visitors perspectives and understanding of Indigenous Australia shift positively is really rewarding.
Steven Satour, Director of Indigenous tourism company Iwara Travel. Source: Steven Satour
He credits a gratitude practice as a great tool for the inevitable challenging times, with advice for any budding entrepreneurs. "When it gets tough, remember why you do what you do. For every setback and for every win, practice an attitude of gratitude because there is always a lesson to be learned. Even on the days when all you can be grateful for is that you woke up."
The challenge is out on community, how to develop a hunger to start to thinking entrepreneurially. - Michelle Evans
Dr Michelle Evans and Marlee Silver at the 2nd Annual Indigenous Business Month 'Celebrating Leadership' event in Sydney October 25th. Photo: Joseph Myers Source: 33 Creative
We have been doing business for tens of thousands of years. And this is a strength we can draw on.
For Sonter, there were some points and issues raised which will enable more and more success for those existing businesses to grow and for those who are wanting to 'understand the game'.
"Having an Indigenous business is an advantage. You are uniquely placed to bring services and products to the mainstream that is not at a deficit. We have been doing business for tens of thousands of years. And this is a strength we can draw on. But we also need to support each other on the journey to continue to flourish."
