Supply Nation's 2023 Supplier Diversity Awards winners announced

Brendan Foster Published August 10, 2023 at 5.30pm (AWST)

business

Supply Nation’s Supplier Diversity Awards were announced at the organisation's flagship event, Connect 23, on Tuesday. (Image: Joseph Mayers)

The winners of one of Australia's biggest awards for First Nations businesses were announced at Supply Nation's flagship event, Connect 23, which was held in Sydney on Tuesday.

Supply Nation's Supplier Diversity Awards, which were held at the International Convention Centre on Gadigal Land, recognised Indigenous individuals, organisations and companies that have helped create a prosperous, vibrant and sustainable Aboriginal business sector.

Supply Nation Executive Director, Michelle Deshong, spoke on the night about the importance of the upcoming Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum.

The awards recognised Indigenous business excellence in the private and government sectors, as well as high-achieving individuals. (Image: Joseph Mayers)

"Tonight, we find ourselves on the precipice of a hugely significant change, and one that will be pivotal in setting Australia's course for generations to come," she said.

"This nation has an opportunity to reframe our terms of engagement, and these are the historical moments that shape our generations.

"Our people are certainly poised to harness this opportunity."

Electronic duo Electric Fields entertained attendees. (Image: Joseph Mayers)

Ms Deshong, who is set to hand over the reins to new CEO Kate Russell, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead Supply Nation during a period when the Indigenous business sector broke new ground and produced positive outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

More than 2,400 Indigenous businesses, corporate

ARIA award winning signer-songwriter Budjerah was also on hand to entertain the crowds. Image: Joseph Mayers)

and government members and international delegates attended Connect's Indigenous Business Tradeshow, which aims to connect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses with motivated buyers.

The theme for Connect 23 – Empowering Indigenous Futures – paid tribute to the significant political, social and economic changes that have led to greater outcomes for First Nations people.

Supply Nation is a non-profit organisation that aims to grow the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business sector through the promotion of supplier diversity and maintains the leading database of verified Indigenous businesses.

Infrastructure service provider Ventia picked up two gongs including the Dr Dean Jarrett Award recognising Outstanding Impact and Corporate Member of the Year.

The Certified Supplier of the Year went to Muru Office Supplies and WV Technologies picked up the Registered Supplier of the Year.