I grew up in the Northern Territory in a remote community which shaped my values and provided me with a lot of resilience. I am a very family orientated person and love to spend my spare time with family. I have quite a big family with four children and nine grand kids. I enjoy bush walking, photography, travelling, exploring, and going on adventures.
I am currently the Senior Program Officer for IBA’s Business Solutions Team in Cairns (Yidinji Country). My role involves a continuous improvement approach to identify opportunities and solutions during program/projects lifecycles, provide advice, training and support to internal Business Solutions staff, wider IBA networks and external customers.
For example, First Nations workshop attendees, organisations and facilitators, report on and monitor our KPIs to ensure our targets are on track and review quality standards along with considerable work on the systems and processes that support these projects.
I studied and went to school in Queensland. I attended James Cook University where I did a degree in Business. I have worked in several different places ranging from Federal and State Government to major banks and non-for-profit organisations.
Over the last five years I have been working in the Indigenous non-for-profit sector and was mainly based in Northern Territory and the Cape in far north Queensland. After a while I realised, I wanted to be closer to family and saw a position at IBA in Cairns open. I decided to take the chance and have been here for almost a year now.
I have always had a passion for family especially children, I believe to help children and families we must look at how we can help adults. When I lived in Northern Territory, I witnessed first-hand the impact of poverty, homelessness, and the discrimination against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
My job allows me to support and create an impact within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It is creating and establishing action to encourage impact, physical action will get an outcome.
I grew up riding horses and always thought they were beautiful spirits, especially Arabian horses. They are such a fiery horse, that smell and look nice. They have such healing spirit, that I sometimes prefer them over people.
IBA’s communications intern and Wiradjuri woman, Zenae Powell, sat down for a yarn with Indigenous Business Month (IBM) co-founder, Dr Michelle Evans, about all things IBM – a month dedicated to celebrating Indigenous businesses, leaders and people within the sector. Michelle is an Associate Professor at Melbourne University and involved in many community-based actions that encourage and advance the great work of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in business.
IBM is in its ninth year since it was created back in 2015. Now going for nine years strong, IBM has created an impact within the Indigenous community, especially within the business sector, where Indigenous business, employment and leaders continue to grow.
We celebrate and showcase Indigenous business success, excellence, and leadership.
Each year we celebrate and flesh out what the sector values about Indigenous business. This is important because there is very little coverage in the mainstream of the diversity and excellence of the Indigenous business sector. We felt that raising the profile of the sector and telling those stories was so important, not only to raise awareness but also to encourage young people and those who were business hesitant to give it a go.
Next year is 10 years and we’ll be doing bigger and better things for that.
With IBM being held at the same time as the referendum, the inspiration for the theme this year was to recognise the importance of gathering together to support one another during this time. The theme touches on community, especially the community of Indigenous businesses, and the unity and support within First Nations communities.
We thought about how people would be feeling during this time and wanted a theme that would support them. The theme highlights the importance of connection and local safe space gatherings where Indigenous people within the business sector can support, uplift, and celebrate one another. This month showcases many amazing stories from Indigenous businesses and leaders.
The theme encourages people to gather, to seek solace and feedback, and to generate friendships and connections which are at the heart of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, in that relational way of being and doing.
The aspiration of IBM is to continue to encourage Indigenous businesspeople to run their own events and for governments and corporates to cooperate and partner with Indigenous business leaders all over the country to support and showcase the events. It is a very democratic initiative where individuals and organisations can contribute by adding events, supporting local businesses, and staying informed with Indigenous leaders within the business sector.
IBM will continue for as long as we find it exciting and positive, as long as it remains as Indigenous business driven. It is the love of creating.
Dilin Duwa exists because of the Indigenous business sector. We have over 300 Indigenous entrepreneurs who have been through our programs. They are the stakeholders of the sector, to provide education through the Murra program and through our grad certificate in Indigenous business leadership. We also do a lot of research, and we get approached by Indigenous organisations to participate in research regarding Indigenous business.
Our work provides education, programs, and dialogue to regional communities, which has been in partnership with IBA. To build Indigenous business in regional parts of Australia, it is important to support and engage with Indigenous businesses and leaders on the ground. They’re the ones doing Blak coffees and who government and other partners like IBA or Supply Nation may go to.
Dilin Duwa’s work supports Indigenous businesses and their leaders to feel economically empowered. To create that shared language about what success is, and the role that Indigenous ecosystems and philosophies have in how First Nations people do business.
The impact of the snapshot thus far is about illuminating registered Indigenous businesses, and demonstrating how many people are employed, how much money is being generated and quantifying the significant contribution of Indigenous businesses to our economy each year.
This is the third year doing the snapshot, and it continues to build more insight into the Indigenous business sector as more and more Indigenous business registries participate.
The picture I used for the research was a spider’s web. During the winter, where I live, there are these intricate webs that grow, and then disappear, and new webs need to be built. I love that metaphor from country, which is kind of like the snapshot. This is what it looks like during the years, and it informs how we, and how policy, can help the shift, grow, and supercharge to create a different snapshot next time.
At the moment we have initiatives, programs and education, but there are so many more possibilities. The snapshot allows us to open up those possibilities and lays the foundation for the future development of the sector.
I am a proud Kija woman from the Kimberley Region in Western Australia, but I grew up in Hobart Tasmania. I now live in Perth (Boorloo), Western Australia and have been there for over eleven years. I purchased my first Home Loan with IBA 16 years ago in Hobart which set me up to be where I am today. I would never have guessed I would be doing the same for our Mob today
I completed year 11 in Hobart and decided to do a hairdressing TAFE apprenticeship; I was a hairdresser from age 17. When I moved to Perth, I completed an Indigenous Traineeship at Westpac which I really enjoyed and gained some finance experience before I joined IBA in 2018.
I am a Home Lending Officer in Perth (Boorloo), Whadjuk Noongar Country. My role allows me to assess home loan applications and support Aboriginal and Torres Islander people into home ownership.
I have found working with IBA an enjoyable experience. I love speaking to mob and being able to support them on their home ownership journey. Helping mob into home ownership is important to me as I know the dream of owning your own home is something many people would love. By supporting mob on their journey to home ownership, it allows me to build a great connection and rapport with our customers.
Building equity in a home can bring loads of opportunities. Such as mine, I sold my first home which allowed me to move interstate and buy my second home with a mainstream bank. I have been with IBA for six years now and it is such a rewarding job, I love feeling like I make a difference.
Anything made by Jason Derulo, he’s my favourite singer, I listen to him every day!
A proud Adnyamathanha woman from South Australia, Narelle grew up in a small country town with only a couple of hundred people where everyone knows one another. She never thought it would be possible to own her first home but set her sights on making it happen.
Looking for a change in pace, Narelle moved to Queensland about four years ago. Loving the vibe of Townsville, Narelle’s next steps were to work her way through COVID and a rental crisis, seeing home ownership as her way forward. Unfortunately, without a financial background and the required deposit, she was knocked back for a home loan by the local bank. Instead of giving up, Narelle persevered with strong willpower and thousands of years of ancestors guiding her way.
Seeing is believing and Narelle watched her sister and partner get their own home with an IBA Home Loan and she craved the security that provided. They shared their experience with Narelle and she decided to take the chance on herself.
Timing is everything. So, Narelle got started in conversations with IBA around two years ago. She was approved for a home loan, unfortunately it was during the beginning of COVID which put a setback on the house hunting process. She was given extra time to find a home but realised she wasn’t ready.
Second try was the charm for Narelle! Although the thought of home ownership was intimidating, she just kept asking questions. When she was unsure, she would contact IBA and get the information she needed.
“Without the help of Piari (IBA Home Lending Officer), my family, and IBA, this wouldn’t be possible,” says Narelle.
In a time of rental crisis and inflation, a lot of people are deterred from home ownership. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, in particular, can feel discouraged from taking opportunities. Narelle wants mob to know they have options.
Narelle said, “Don’t get discouraged, if I can do it, so can you.”
As a single Blak woman, Narelle achieved her home ownership dreams, which demonstrated true girl boss behaviour.
Narelle shares what worked for her with those wanting to own a home, “Get rid of ‘buy now, pay later’ schemes that bog you down with high interest rates, save as much as you can, and occasionally go without that takeaway coffee.”
For Narelle, home ownership was about overcoming her insecurities about her financial awareness, and achieving the security of her own home and not worrying about renting. She said, “If you want it enough, keep going…I’m, so glad and lucky to be a homeowner, it has definitely changed my life.”
Want to learn more about home ownership? Everyone’s journey is different. Check out one of IBA’s free workshops or subscribe to IBA’s Economics Explainer vodcast series, where we talk about interest rates, to find out more.
View Nikea's video story here.
This journey towards home ownership explores the inspiring story of Gamilaraay woman Nikea – a single mother who defied societal expectations and broke the cycle of living in social housing by purchasing her own home. Her accomplishment serves as an inspiration for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous women, highlighting the importance of financial stability, generational wealth, and changing narratives for future generations.
For Nikea, her home ownership journey began when she received the news her family would have to move out of the rental property that they had been living in for 12 years. With the pressure building and the uncertainty of where she would relocate her family, she decided to make her next move: from renter to homeowner.
Nikea’s action is a testament to her strength and determination as a single Indigenous mother fighting for the security of her family. She purchased the property that she had been renting for 12 years and described it as ‘an overwhelming achievement’.
Being the first homeowner in her family, she became a trailblazer, inspiring her children and other family members to follow in her footsteps. The greatest rewards of home ownership for Nikea, are the sense of financial stability and security it provided for her family. Her success didn’t happen overnight; it required careful planning and sacrifice. She prioritised savings, sought financial advice, and worked closely with her IBA relationship managers to get her ready.
Reflecting on her own journey, Nikea shares valuable advice for aspiring homeowners:
“I think it’s imperative to emphasise the importance of full-time employment, managing debts responsibly, and proving the ability to save. Demonstrating responsible spending habits and financial discipline are all key factors in preparing for home ownership and its important people understand this,” said Nikea.
She adds to the inspiration by saying, “I hope my journey to home ownership encourages others to seek guidance, ask questions and surround themselves with people who can provide support and knowledge throughout the process.”
From renting to home ownership, Nikea demonstrates her resilience and determination. Her achievement not only provides personal satisfaction but also serves as an inspiration to others to pursue the possibilities of home ownership.
By breaking the cycle of social housing and securing generational wealth, Nikea is rewriting the narrative for her children, empowering them to achieve their goals and creating a brighter future. Her story reminds us of the transformative power of home ownership.
Find out more about IBA’s free workshops on understanding credit or how to create a budget to support your next steps to home ownership.
About Piari 
I am a proud Githabul (Northeast New South Wales) and Ghungalu (Central Queensland, around the Mount Morgan area) man. I grew up in Lismore, NSW until I was about 15 but then finished my schooling in Sydney. I managed to get a scholarship with a football (soccer) academy in Sydney, which included a fully-paid England tour, where I played against academies of some big English football clubs such as Everton, Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Bromwich Albion. I am a big Liverpool fan and couldn’t live without football.
Outside of football, I have a beautiful partner and we have two daughters. I love spending time with them.
What is your role at IBA?
I am a Home Lending Officer located in Brisbane at our Meanjin office. My role includes undertaking customer interviews, assessing someone’s eligibility for an IBA housing loan, providing information to customers to support their home ownership journey, preparing loan submissions for approval, as well as loan documentation and other correspondence. Also, I run workshops in relation to home ownership and budgeting to teach skills on how to better manage cashflow.
Journey to IBA
I finished high school and went straight into the workforce. I started off with admin work at Concord hospital in Western Sydney before moving to Brisbane and taking on an Indigenous traineeship with the Commonwealth Bank. This led to opportunities in home loan service and home lending roles during my four-year tenure with them.
I had always known about IBA since I was a young kid through family. Knowing the positive outcomes that we can bring to community; I saw the opportunity arise to work for IBA and couldn’t turn it down. I started in my role with IBA in early January 2023.
Why IBA
The workplace feels very culturally safe and allows for better connections between staff, and also between staff and our borrowers. We do have a connection and understanding when we speak to each other.
Working with mob is important because we are so diverse within our own community. Having mob from all areas work here for the same goal or outcome is important, as it allows us to see things from different perspectives., As we know, issues are rarely “one size fits all”.
What TV show or Movie is on repeat and why?
It has to be Happy Gilmore, that movie is peak comedy. Too many quotes I could pull from that movie, that are all hilarious. Could really say that about any mid-late 90’s Adam Sandler film to be fair.
Have you seen our new 'Feel Good Friday' campaign on Facebook?
We're thrilled to celebrate the success stories of our valued customers who are proud to share their special kodak moments with IBA – and thanks to all our fab staff that make these happy customers!
We are committed to fostering a culture of celebration, and that includes acknowledging the accomplishments of our customers. By sharing their success on our platforms, we hope to motivate and inspire others to do the same for their families, create generational wealth, and take that next step towards financial freedom.
If you're an IBA home loan customer and would like to share your pics and be a part of this campaign, please let us know at iba.corporate@iba.gov.au.
Don't forget to follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
Get on the wild side, the buck wild side, and check out the Black Magic Woman vodcast - Episode #112 featuring Lacey Long a proud Kamilaroi woman and owner of Buck Wild Country. Lacey talked with vodcast host, Mundanara Bayles, about her business journey, family/friends, and words of inspiration to all inspiring entrepreneurs.
Previously working in government agencies and even starting her first business of a clothing boutique at 18, Lacey always knew she would be in business. She transitioned into her current business, Buck Wild Country, after a need for lifestyle change now that she has a daughter – her focus was to merge her inspirations both as a business owner and as a parent.
With a business start-up loan from IBA, Lacey used the funds to purchase stock for the men’s and children’s clothing line of Buck Wild Country.
The business is inspired by BOHO country aesthetic with a variety of clothing to live your ‘buck wild side’. With beautiful hand drawn designs, Lacey’s business goes beyond country and continues to grow.
From what started with one design for men, the business quickly grew to over 20 designs for men, women, and children. Today, Buck Wild Country is proudly an Australian country lifestyle and fashion brand, built with love for the whole family.
As part of our Strong Women Strong Business network, Lacey spoke at a Lunch & Learn session last year that brought together her business experience with the importance of money management.
In the recent Black Magic Woman vodcast, Lacey shared some words of wisdom and reality to aspiring business owners: “Just go for it, start with your friends and family. Don’t give up and keep going, there’s going to be hurdles.”
With these inspiring words, the only thing holding you back, is you.
Watch the vodcast episode or check out Buck Wild Country across socials or on their website, buckwildcountry.com.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
IBA is proud to sponsor a series of strong women in business for this year’s Black Magic Woman pod- and vod-casts. If you would like more info on all the Black Magic Woman yarns, visit the website, blackmagicwoman.com.au/iba-partnership-series/.
To find out more about how you can start or grow a business, visit Starting a business.
Desirae works in our Loan Management Team in our Brisbane Office on Turrbal and Yuggera Country. 
I am a Maori woman who was born in Australia but was raised in Hamilton, New Zealand. I have been working in the collections industry for 13 years. Eventually I ventured to IBA around three years ago and joined the Brisbane Loan management team.
My role here at IBA is a Principal Loan Management Officer. This is a key role within the Loan Management team, building rapport with our borrowers, providing hardship assistance and solutions to support our borrowers to remain in home ownership. In addition to my role, I also facilitate Budgeting and Understanding Credit workshops online and worked 11 months in an acting Assistant Manager role within Loan Management.
I love working at IBA because of the connection to culture, and the values we have align with my own personal beliefs. I especially love the aspect of helping our borrowers, networking and how we continue to find ways to grow as an organisation.
I resonate with dragonflies. The dragonfly has been a symbol of happiness, new beginnings, and change. They are known to only live for one day and are a reminder to live your life to the fullest and make the most of each moment.
