First Nations X

What a remarkable day it was to officially launch First Nations House, a new beacon for First Nations entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership. This hub represents a transformative vision: to amplify the voices of First Nations entrepreneurs, bridge gaps in economic opportunities, and connect cultural resilience with modern innovation. Thank you to the US, Mexico, Canada and NZ delegates who joined us :) Highlights and Outcomes: 1. Global Perspectives on Indigenous Leadership The plenary session brought together thought leaders, including Dawn Houle Eric Henson KIM COLLARD and Melissa Wharton , moderated by US Consular General Siriana Nair. The discussions reinforced the critical role of innovative leadership in preserving heritage while enabling economic growth and sovereignty across Indigenous communities worldwide. 2. Driving Investment and Equity This panel, featuring Bill Tai Eli Velasquez Gordon C. and Nicole Johnny, MBA , moderated by CBAs Simone Kenmore, demonstrated the power of targeted investments and culturally informed leadership. 3. Creativity, Culture, and Country This vibrant discussion celebrated the artistry of First Nations creatives like Bart Pigram Jack Steele Kevin Wilson and Shannon McGuire led by Hannah Mathews. The panel explored how storytelling through art, music, and design not only preserves tradition but also serves as a powerful tool for inspiring the next generation. Workshops and Connections Sessions like Capital Connect for First Nations Startups and Leveraging AI to Grow Your Startup (with Ben Cooper) equipped participants with the skills and connections to navigate today’s entrepreneurial landscape. These workshops sparked new collaborations and emphasised the importance of culturally appropriate tools for success. Women’s Gathering The Women’s Gathering created a safe and sacred space for connection, collaboration, and shared learning. Leaders like FNX Co-Chair Jahna Cedar OAM, Amanda Smith, MBA and Natalia Wi  inspired attendees to carry forward cultural pride and community strength into all aspects of life. Looking Ahead First Nations X will continue to: - Support First Nations entrepreneurs with tailored programs and mentorship. - Build international partnerships that foster knowledge-sharing and investment. - Amplify the economic and cultural contributions of First Nations businesses, both locally and globally. Acknowledgements: This event wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible FNX board, panellists, passionate volunteers, and generous sponsors. Your support is paving the way for sustainable innovation and empowerment within First Nations communities. Thank you also to Aunty Sally Morgan for the wonky baskets and to uncle Wayne Webb for your Welcome to Wadandi Boodja As First Nations X continues its mission, we are reminded of the profound potential that emerges when we combine cultural heritage with entrepreneurial spirit.

First Nations X extends our deepest gratitude to Gerry Matera and the team at GATHER FOODS for curating an unforgettable cultural culinary experience for our US delegates. Your dedication to celebrating Indigenous heritage through food is truly inspiring. By weaving the rich flavors of our land with innovative techniques, Gather Foods not only nourishes the body but also honours the spirit of First Nations culture. This experience was more than just a meal—it was a journey of connection, storytelling, and the sharing of traditions. We are so proud to showcase the brilliance of Indigenous entrepreneurship and creativity on the global stage. To learn more about Gather Foods and their incredible work, visit gatherfoods.com.au. #firstnationsx #Indigenousbusiness

USA-Australia are close partners so this in person exchange of culture and commerce for First Nations people in both countries. Thank you to the Consul and other supports.

Honoured to see Jaynaya Winmar's insights from our event First Nations House Summit. Check out the interview to hear her inspiring wisdom on breaking barriers in business. 🌟 #FirstNationsHouse #IndigenousExcellence

Thank you Commonwealth Bank and Simone Kenmore. It's great collaborating with you to support Indigenous enterprises.

Fantastic start to the First Nations X workshops being held this morning at MinterEllison supporting First Nations entrepreneurs and founders with investment networking opportunities and an AI Masterclass with Ben Cooper from BRAINSTRUST 😎🙌 #FirstNations #business #entrepreneurship #investment #startup #innovation #growth #AI #technology

Celebrating Indigenous excellence, innovation and entrepreneurship were key features of First Nations House Australia Summit. Jahna Cedar OAM, First Nations X CoChair, shared with The Indigenous Business Review some of the reasons why international collaboration and connection through events like First Nations House are needed and so impactful. 🌏 #FirstNationsX #IndigenousLeadership Paula Taylor | Jaynaya Winmar | Peter Rossdeutscher AM | Les Delaforce | Kent Matla | Raquel Todd | Reece Harley | Stephen Dawson | Siriana Nair | Julie Sunday | Amanda Healy | KIM COLLARD | Eli Velasquez | Dawn Houle | Nicole Johnny, MBA | Bill Tai | Eric Henson | Amanda Smith, MBA

As part of an Australia-USA exchange, a delegation of exceptional Native American leaders engaged with a range of ecosystem stakeholders in Sydney last week. The first leg of the Blak Angels Investment Network (BAIN) exchange mission included meetings with local venture capital firms, networking with small businesses and industry professionals, and discussions with BAIN Committee Members. The visiting delegates also shared insights into their Indigenous economic empowerment ecosystems as well as venture models that are having a positive impact. Nicole Johnny – Raven Capital Partners, Amanda Smith – President of the Native American Business Association, Dawn Houle – President of SunSinger Consulting, and Eli Velasquez – CEO of Capital Stack Investors, joined a panel session with Jaynaya Winmar – Director of First Nations X. Moderated by Simone Kenmore – Executive Manager of Indigenous Banking at CBA, the panel covered topics ranging from Indigenous capital funds, upskilling Native business founders, supporting other funders, and connecting culture with commerce. Eli Velasquez, who is also Managing Partner of Investors of Colour, has been supporting the BAIN initiative since 2022. Eli said, “There is a unique opportunity to link the U.S. Indigenous investor networks with BAIN and share best practices on how to mobilise capital to create intergenerational wealth.” Eric Henson – EVP of Compass Lexecon/Harvard University, shared the background and key findings of Harvard University’s long-standing Project on Indigenous Governance and Development during his conversation with First Nations X Co-Chair Peter Rossdeutscher AM. The Harvard project identified governance as the leading success factor in economic empowerment across all nations, regardless of size, location, or resources. Eric emphasised the transformative power of effective Indigenous governance and decision-making in driving positive economic and social change. He called for blending modern practices with traditional knowledge to address global challenges, such as sustainable agriculture, and stressed the importance of equitable solutions that uplift entire communities. The delegates now travel to Perth for an extensive week that includes speaking and networking at First Nations House, cultural engagement events, a public BAIN Capital Networking Session, and workshops. For broader reach, they will also attend and network with investors and startups at West Tech Fest, where Nicole Johnny will speak on Raven Capital Ventures’ focus areas. A reciprocal BAIN mission will occur next year, with Aboriginal leaders from the initiative’s original founding members travelling to the USA. Immense thanks to the USA Government, Minderoo Foundation, and US Consul General to WA, Siriana Nair, for supporting the Blak Angels Investment Network exchange initiative. Darryl Lyons | Les Delaforce | Siriana Nair | Leigh Dawson | Jaynaya Winmar | Morgan Coleman | Peter Rossdeutscher AM

Today CommBank + First Nations X hosted the First Nations Thought Leadership Breakfast with First Nations guests from the US. Thank you to Eric Henson, Dawn Houle, Eli Velasquez, Nicole Johnny, MBA and Amanda Smith, MBA for generously sharing your experience and expertise on economic empowerment for Indigenous business. It was an insightful morning and I feel very privileged to have spent time with you all. I look forward to seeing you at West Tech Fest + First Nations House Summit in Perth next week. Thank you to the First Nations X team, especially Peter Rossdeutscher AM and my sister Jaynaya Winmar. Love your work! Thank you to the Indigenous businesses that attended, it was great to connect. Shout out to Sharona Torrens and Brooke Scott for your support, I couldn't have pulled the event together without you! Reece Harley Zak Kirkup Sharona Torrens Brooke Scott Chris Turnbull Alex Matthews

Thank you to the amazing Amanda Healy and Shannon McGuire. We are excited to hear your insights on 2nd December in Perth. Amanda will be speaking at the Energy Transition session of First Nations House along with David Flanagan, Michael Wear, Clayton Franklin and Rohan McDougall. Shannon will be joined by Jack Steele, Bart Pigram, Hannah Mathews and Kevin Wilson. More info on the schedule and other speakers is available at; www.firstnationshouse.com Book your tickets now: https://lnkd.in/gcZRKhib #community #Innovation #FirstNationsPeoples #Empowerment #Networking #WestTechFest #FirstNationsHouse  #EnergyTransition