Sydney hosted a powerful and inspiring First Nations Forum and Luncheon — proudly organised by Business Sydney in partnership with the KARI Foundation and ICC Sydney.

Held during October, which is Indigenous Business Month, the event was a resounding success, bringing together leaders from government, business, and community to celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurship and the growing strength of Indigenous-owned small businesses.

The smoking ceremony conducted by Troy Dargan, Head of Culture and Engagement for KARI. 

After a moving and poignant Welcome to Country from Councillor Yvonne Weldon AM, we were honoured to hear from the Hon. David Harris MP, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, and Felicity Wilson MP, Shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, along with a video message from the Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator the Hon. Malarndirri McCarthy. 

Our two panels consisted of influential speakers and business leaders driving real change and opportunity across the state.

Our first panel was a Spotlight on Indigenous Small Businesses. The panellists were:

• Nathan Lovett, CEO, National Indigenous Culinary Institute
• Adjunct Professor Wayne Quilliam, Co-Owner, Mt Yengo Wines
• Aunty Margret Campbell, Founder, Dreamtime Southern X
• Phillipa McDermott, Chair, Bangarra Dance Theatre
• Jason Ardler PSM, Co-Founder, Thirriwirri 

The second panel discussed Indigenous Procurement in Practice. Our speakers were:

• Cain Slater, Chief Commercial Officer, KARI
• Monica Barone, CEO, City of Sydney 
• Kate Russell, CEO, Supply Nation
• John Bacon, General Manager Sourcing & Category, Compass Group
• Lauren Pitkin, Manager Events and Fundraising, KARI Foundation

Business Sydney believes that Indigenous businesses are essential to building a stronger, more inclusive economy — and that all levels of government and the private sector must work together to support, procure from, and invest in Indigenous enterprises.

Luke Fleming, Chief People Officer for the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), gave the vote of thanks at the luncheon - a true celebration of collaboration, opportunity, and Indigenous excellence.