In celebration of NAIDOC Week, we’re proud to share ten of our favourite businesses founded by amazing First Nations women from the Business Chicks community.
Get to know these clever women who offer everything from clothing (including those aaaaah-mazing pieces above) and artwork to chocolate, wellness and professional services. Warning, you won’t able to resist opening your wallet when you see what they offer …
Simone Thomson – Artist
Yorta-Yorta and Wurundjeri woman Simone Thomson is a Melbourne based artist who draws inspiration from the abundant textures and colours of the beautiful land, along with the ancestral bonds she has to the Birrarung (Yarra River) and Dhungala (the Murray River). She produces original art, prints, message sticks, wall hangings and gifts. We’ve got our eyes on the dreamy Milky Way, Pink print.
Gammin Threads
Tahnee Edwards is a proud descendant of the Yorta Yorta, Taungurung, Boonwurrung & Mutti Mutti nations. She says, “Gammin Threads is my side hustle and creative outlet from my full-time job at an Aboriginal family violence prevention service.” Shop their fun range of apparel and accessories here and wait for the compliments to roll in!
Jarin St
Jarin Baigent is a Wiradjuri woman who launched Jarin St to create a platform to celebrate and honour the art of the talented people in her community. Jarin St is a retail destination and pathway for you connect to Aboriginal artworks through apparel, yoga mats, towels and more. We love the women’s empowerment exercise mat and matching millie tights. Sydneysiders, you can now find Jarin St in Westfield Warringah Mall, too!
Soul Sister Co
The deep sisterhood and friendship of Wakaya woman Bek Lasky and Yorta Yorta woman Ruby Evans is the inspiration behind their brand, Soul Sister Co. Through their affordable and comfortable apparel, they aim to empower and motivate other young people to chase their goals and be their most authentic selves. Their hoodies are just perfect for cozy winter days, check them out.
Yarli Creative
Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung and Gamilaroi woman Madison Connors has been drawing, painting, and being creative as long as she can remember. Her brand Yarli Creative spans activewear, canvas prints, cards, clothing and some of the most beautiful face masks we saw come out of 2020.
Chocolate on Purpose
Fiona Harrison is a proud Wiradjuri woman and together with her ally and friend Jo, is behind the gourmet brand Chocolate On Purpose. They use aromatic profiling to create fusions of chocolate and Australian native plant-based aromatics. Check out their range of Bush Food Chocolate, a fusion of the finest Belgian chocolate and native botanicals including wattleseed, macadamia nut, finger limes, wild rosella and more. Yum!
Wattleseed Nutrition
Tracy Hardy is a Gamilaroi woman, founder of Wattleseed Nutrition, Health & Wellbeing and member of Business Chicks Business Club. She blends modern permaculture design principles, community and public health nutrition with nutrition counselling, science and therapies together with Indigenous knowledges and philosophies to deliver a unique, inclusive and empowered learning experience. Learn more about her consulting and workshop opportunities here.
KYKOE
KYKOE was created in 2019 by Tishara Garrett, a proud Meriam, Butchulla, Barada Barna & Cingalese woman, wife and mother. KYKOE sharing the love of culture through accessories, providing an avenue to display cultural pride and allied support with everyday essential pieces. We love their unique handmade headbands – perfect for brightening up your Zoom meetings!
TJ Accountants
Jolene Elliot (descendant of the Yugunga-Nya people) and Theresa Sapatra are not your typical accountants. The award-winning Indigenous business owners and members of the LGBTQIA+ community are the women behind TJ Accountants. Broad-minded and accessible, they pride themselves on speaking your language, so you don’t have to speak theirs. Check them out for accounting, tax and business advisory services.
Aunty I’s Wellbeing Centre
Deb Miller is a Kanolu woman and the Founder of Aunty I’s Wellbeing Centre. Aunty I’s is committed to delivering high-quality services for women and girls who are struggling within themselves, through a holistic form of healing – mind, body, spirit & connection. Aunty I’s Wellbeing Centre enables you to be empowered and find yourself again, while feeling safe, loved and inspired. Deb offers one-on-one coaching and counselling through to group sessions for schools and communities. Find out more here.
