October marks Indigenous Business Month, an opportunity for us to celebrate and showcase the diversity and excellence of First Nations businesses across Australia.
At UGL we’re proud to be a diverse and inclusive workplace and collaborate with incredible First Nations businesses. Our Reconciliation Action Plan includes a commitment to champion Indigenous business and to look for opportunities to do business with them.
Kim and Sharna Collard own Kooya and Kulbardi, both of which UGL uses to procure vehicles and stationery respectively. They’ve not only created two thriving businesses but turned their energy into giving back to the community, by establishing the Bibbulmun Fund. The community-based fund aims to foster entrepreneurial leadership by supporting First Nation-owned and delivered projects.
It has been recognised by Philanthropy Australia, and Kim’s hard work has seen him be awarded West Australian of the Year and National Elder of the Year. Alongside Kooya CEO, Sharna Collard, Kim’s focus is improving outcomes for society.
“The Bibbulmun Fund aims to help Aboriginal society break the shackles of welfare dependency and engage in the wealth of the economy of our traditional homelands,” says Founder and Executive Chairman of Kulbardi, and the Bibbulmun Fund, Kim Collard.
This year’s theme for Indigenous Business Month is ‘Making Our Mark’ which Kim and Sharna believe can be achieved through building relationships. The pair put it down to why their relationship with UGL has grown.
“Indigenous Business Month is not only about showcasing the diversity and excellence with Aboriginal businesses across Australia, but it’s important for companies like UGL to establish strong relationships with the sector,” says Kim.
“I believe there’s a shared vision between UGL and Kooya and that is the Bibbulmun Fund, and the desire to contribute towards long-term sustainable outcomes. The relationship between UGL and Kooya commenced in 2018, with incremental growth allowing Kooya to expand with UGL. UGL genuinely understands the value of social procurement,” says Sharna.