Today, our thoughts are with First Nations' people. We recognise that January 26 is a difficult day for First Nations' people, and that it marks the beginning of the dispossession of land, violence, massacres and genocide. Many refer to January 26 as invasion day or survival day. Today is a day of mourning, not celebration.
Allies - if you are not spending your Invasion Day at a local rally, event or work, you can do your part with us by opening your wallet and buying yourself something spesh!
We’ve rounded up eight amazing First Nations businesses you should support today.
Clothing the gaps
You may have seen us share about their incredible foundation Clothing The Gaps Foundation in the past across our socials. Managed by health professionals, Clothing the Gaps celebrates Aboriginal people and culture by encouraging people to wear their values on their tee. The 2020 Dreamtime Award winning brand is a play on the words ‘closing the gap’, which is an Australian government initiative to help close the life expectancy gap between Aboriginal people and non-Indigenous Australians.
Maara Collective
Maara Collective was founded by Yuwaalaraay woman, Julie Shaw, from Lightning Ridge outback NSW, who now lives and works in Sydney. Julie’s dream was to collaborate with Indigenous artists, designers and entrepreneurs - enter MAARA Collective, that works closely with a wide range of Indigenous artists and creatives, drawing inspiration from Country. MAARA Collective gives back to the community through the Buy1Give1 initiative.
Bush Magic Metal
Founder Lydia Baker, from Bundjalung Country, located in the northern coastal area of NSW is a self-taught silversmith. Lydia creates artisan jewellery using recycled sterling silver and opals, all sourced in Australia. Not only is Lydia the founder, she’s the entire business.
Country to Coast Trees
A proud 100% Aboriginal-owned family business, Country to Coast offers tree pruning, removal, mulching and stump grinding, as well as firewood, conservation and land management. Country to Coast is dedicated to providing employment opportunities, qualifications, and skills in arboriculture to Aboriginal people.
www.countrytocoasttrees.com.au
Panku Safety Solutions
Its name means ‘united, together’ in Nyiyapali and Panku lives up to that meaning. The Aboriginal-owned and operated business specialises in safety products and services, including PPE, environmental spill control, signage, hygiene, height safety, site safety and workwear. Panki gives back by providing funds, supplies and equipment to programs that benefit Aboriginal communities.
Ngali
Run by Wiradjuri woman Denni Francisco, Ngali’s work is all about Yindayamarra – fashion that shows respect, fashion that’s polite, gentle to Country and shows honour to the cross country collaborations with other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives. Ngali also gives back through the Buy1Give1 initiative as well as artist royalties.
Kirrikin
Kirrikin is a social enterprise founded by Amanda Healy from the Wonnarua nation – traditional owners of the Hunter Valley. Amanda developed Kirrikin in 2014, addressing the shortage of authentic Indigenous products by sharing profits with the artists. Kirrikin digitally prints Aboriginal artwork onto luxurious fabrics, giving back to the community through a variety of programs and donations.
Briar Blooms
Run by Aboriginal Domica Hill, Briar Blooms specialises in dried and preserved flower arrangements, bath soaks, soaps, candles, wheat eye pillows and heat bags.
Domica is a Palawa woman and contemporary Aboriginal artist, she launched her business in memory of her stillborn daughter, Briar.
Gerrbik Laundry Services
Initially launched as Complete Workwear, Gerrbik was Australia’s first Aboriginal-owned commercial laundry. It’s now run by the founder’s daughter, and Taungurung woman, Nicole Stewart. Gerrbik, which means family in Taungurung language, offers employment opportunities to both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, including women who have escaped from domestic violence or who are seeking a fresh start after incarceration.
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