As part of 2024's Indigenous Business Month (IBM), the Department of Tourism spotlighted Island Stars, a family-owned business founded in 2019 with a vision to help young Torres Strait Islanders learn about their culture and develop confidence in themselves. Island Stars is dedicated to empowering local youth and fostering a sense of pride in their heritage.
The Cairns Institute's Jennifer McHugh attended the event on Waiben (Thursday Island) to represent the Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub's Sustainable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Program (SATSIE) at the Black Coffee event held at the Lagaw Titui Café (Island Stars Coffee).
Black Coffee is a grassroots Indigenous business networking initiative held in regions across Australia each month.
Originally founded in Queensland, the Black Coffee movement has expanded nationally, offering a platform for micro and small business owners to connect, collaborate, and grow their networks. The gatherings bring together Indigenous business owners, professionals, and their supporters to "yarn," exchange ideas, and build relationships with the goal of fostering growth and creating new opportunities.
While some regions host one-off events, others hold monthly gatherings at varying times to facilitate ongoing connection and support.
In addition to local business owners, the event attracted representatives from several key organizations, including the Department of Treaty, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, the Department of Communities & the Arts, the Department of Tourism, Department of Natural Resource Management, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development, Busy at Work, and TAFE Queensland.
Discussions focused on the opportunities and unique challenges of running businesses in the Torres Strait region, particularly with the large influx of tourist cruises expected in 2025.
A highlight of the morning was the coffee served by Tagai College senior students who are working towards their Barista Training certificates. The event provided an invaluable opportunity for local businesses to connect, share ideas, and informally discuss the future growth and sustainability of the Torres Strait region.
Image credits: Island Stars & J.McHugh
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