“We know that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have always engaged in trade and commerce.”
At this year’s Canberra Women in Business Awards, two women were crowned Canberra Business Woman of the Year, while one woman took out two titles on the same night.
Wiradjuri businesswoman, Melissa Lacey, won both the Indigenous and Innovation categories for her enterprise, Point River Networks.
“Winning these awards demonstrates that in our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, women are strong leaders and entrepreneurs, engaging with and controlling our destiny,” Ms Lacey said.
Point River Network is a consulting organisation with a focus on providing opportunities for women and Indigenous people in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector.
She and Sally Cumper, friend and cofounder, formed the idea during the long chats that followed their regular lake runs. The two mums built an enterprise based on their individual strengths.
“Sally was confident in her ICT skills, and I wanted to bring my accounting and management skills developed over years of working in the public service and the private sector.”
They researched opportunities offered by the Federal Government, like the Indigenous Procurement Policy, which is designed to significantly increase the rate of purchasing from Indigenous enterprises.
Now Point River Networks continues to Close the Gap, and Ms Lacey has been selected as one of five facilitators for the Young Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls. She hopes to inspire young Indigenous women to be confident and start their own businesses.
Currently, Ms Lacey said, there aren’t enough indigenous women in business, “and we’re working to improve on that”.
“Indigenous women have a particularly important role to play in commerce, starting and growing a business, bringing unique perspectives – and forging pathways for their daughters, sisters, aunties, and mothers to follow. “
Ms Lacey’s family has been in Canberra since the 1970s, when her mother moved to Canberra after securing an Indigenous Placement position at the National Library of Australia.
“Growing up in Canberra has shaped who I am and my future. I’ve enjoyed how connected and supportive the Canberra business community is.
“I’d like to see more diversity, and more Indigenous women in business in Canberra,” she said.
“I hope Canberra fulfills its opportunity as the Capital of Australia, building diversity and ensuring representation encourages a prosperous, inclusive, and secure Australian community.”
Ms Lacey shared her advice to young Indigenous girls who want to follow in her footsteps.
“If you have an idea that you’re passionate about, write it down. Our mob has always had a strong and vibrant culture, and we have a wealth of ideas to draw upon.
“Find mentors, teachers or leaders who can empower you and support your journey. There are lots of opportunities in Canberra, keep your eyes open.
“Be resilient and tenacious – learn, grow and accept challenges as they arise.”
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