In Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region, geographical isolation and limited resources can result in barriers to education, employment and economic participation for Indigenous women. But with the support of a $6,500 ANZ Seeds of Renewal grant, Oceania Indigenous House of Ecommerce (ODX) delivered a workshop designed to combat these challenges and create lasting impact throughout the region.
The Dream Big, Start Strong workshop was developed to provide Indigenous women with vital digital and financial literacy skills, opening pathways to entrepreneurship and employment. Hosted entirely online, the program supported 24 Indigenous women, with scholarships awarded based on geography and availability. The women joined from their homes, workplaces, community halls and yarning circles, creating safe and culturally appropriate spaces for learning, often with family and other community members listening in.
Originally focussed on topics such as eCommerce, content creation, digital marketing, social media, branding, intellectual property protection and AI automation, the project evolved following community feedback. In consultation with on-ground partners, it became clear that many participants would benefit from additional support in business compliance, ABN registration and business planning. ODX responded by expanding the curriculum and developing new learning modules. Additional expert facilitators were brought in to deliver the new content in a relatable and easy-to-understand way.
One of the most successful aspects of the workshop was the broad range of expert speakers chosen to deliver it. From Karen Tari’s introduction to business foundations and ABN compliance, to Maree Cutler-Naroba’s creative approach to business planning (likening the process to plating a meal) participants were engaged and empowered. Anna McCoy’s sessions on digital tools, automation and content creation offered insights into growing a business in the modern economy, while Hoozie Chapman’s IP education provided legal guidance and links to local support.
ODX also asked the women to complete pre-workshop self-assessments, allowing them to tailor the sessions and benchmark learning outcomes. After the training, women shared how the knowledge they’d gained would lead to immediate improvements in their businesses.
“This will assist us to make immediate changes to our business and ensure its future compliance and longevity,” shared one participant.
Overall, feedback from community partners and participants was overwhelmingly positive, with some describing it as the most successful education experience their community had participated in to date. Beyond the workshop, the women gained access to ODX’s online community portal, which provides continued learning, mentorship and a peer support network, extending the workshop’s impact well beyond the initial training.
By improving the women’s digital skills and entrepreneurial confidence, this workshop has strengthened resilience and economic empowerment in the wider community. Thanks to the support of the ANZ Seeds of Renewal program, the Dream Big, Start Strong initiative has supported Kimberley women to build more vibrant, inclusive and sustainable communities in the region.
Watch this video to see a snapshot of the workshop in action! This year’s ANZ Seeds of Renewal grant program opens Tuesday 1 July.