I believe that businesses can and should change lives. A few years ago I had the honour of mentoring an inspirational young entrepreneur, Jasmine Groves, who wanted to launch an Aboriginal owned and operated commercial cleaning company.

She was inspired by her great-grandfather, Herbert (Bert) Groves, to honour his legacy of advocating for social equality of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Bert Groves was an active and vocal Sydney-based activist who, during the 1950s and 60s, fought to improve the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians through basic human rights. Bert was also an instrumental figure in the campaign and ultimate success of the 1967 referendum.

Jasmine and I formed a partnership to establish GJK Indigenous Solutions, as a vehicle to further the economic and social equality of First Nations people, businesses and communities.

As a co-director, I am proud that in addition to the exemplary provision of its primary services, GJK Indigenous Solutions also contributes to diversity in the industry and community, by providing cultural awareness training, Indigenous recruitment, and supplier diversity solutions.

We strive to advocate for and support the economic advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, businesses and communities through purposeful engagement, sustainable employment and overall empowerment of Indigenous Australia.