2025 Indigenous in Business Finalists
The Ethnic Business Awards Foundation would like to congratulate all of the finalists of the 2025 Indigenous in Business Category.
Eastern Guruma– Tania Stevens – Perth, WA
Tania Stevens, Managing Director of Eastern Guruma Pty Ltd and a proud Eastern Guruma Traditional Custodian from Muntalgura Guruma in Western Australia, has led the 100% female Aboriginal-owned company since 2004. Together with co-owner Samantha Connors, she provides integrated mine site services across the Pilbara and Kimberley regions, with a strong focus on employing and empowering Aboriginal people. Deeply connected to their traditional lands around Tom Price and Karijini National Park, the business champions cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and economic development that respects land, lore, and community.
NLA Trucking– Nicole Appleton – Melbourne, VIC
NLA Trucking, founded by Ngarrindjeri woman Nicole Appleton, is a 100% Aboriginal female-owned transport and plant hire company based in Victoria. From a single vehicle, it has grown into a major operation with over 100 trucks and a network of 500+ subcontractors, servicing key infrastructure projects across sectors. A certified Kinaway and Supply Nation member, NLA leads in Indigenous business and social impact through its Pilot Program, which empowers Aboriginal participants to become self-employed owner-drivers. The company also supports women and disadvantaged individuals, driving inclusive employment and long-term economic change.
BRC Roofing and Cladding Australia– Blake Allen - Sydney, NSW
Blake Allen, a proud Aboriginal man from Gulargambone, is the Founder and Director of BRC Roofing and Cladding. Overcoming early hardships in foster care, he began his roofing apprenticeship at 16 and founded BRC at 23. Now a leading provider of roofing and cladding solutions across multiple sectors, BRC is known for its commitment to craftsmanship, safety, and community. Through its Pathway Program, the company supports apprentices and underrepresented individuals, building not just roofs—but futures grounded in opportunity and integrity. Blake’s leadership reflects a deep belief in second chances and the power of skills-based training. His story continues to inspire others to pursue their goals despite adversity.
Aunty Munya Andrews & Carla Rogers- Evolve Communities- Shellharbour, NSW
Evolve Communities is a leading Australian provider of Indigenous cultural awareness, Reconciliation, and Allyship training, co-led by Aboriginal Elder Aunty Munya Andrews and non-Indigenous Learning Designer Carla Rogers. Their programs combine lived experience, deep cultural knowledge, and award-winning facilitation to foster inclusive workplaces and inspire 10 million Allies nationwide. With a practical, non-judgmental approach informed by Aboriginal wisdom and Dreamtime, Evolve delivers engaging online and in-person training for government, NGOs, and major corporations.
