Delivered over six weeks, the program supported selected Waalitj Hub clients to prepare for the event, equipping participants with practical skills to build confidence, foster meaningful connections and pursue growth opportunities within the energy, defence, resources and infrastructure sectors.
The program began with a Public Speaking Workshop in August, facilitated by Christine Ross, Managing Director of Christine Ross Consultancy and focused on communication confidence, storytelling, presence and effective engagement in professional settings.
Participants then progressed to a dedicated pre-event workshop, where they refined their business pitches, identified networking goals, developed lead-tracking systems and prepared individual action plans ahead of attending SCOPE and the Construction Industry Dinner.
Held at Crown Perth in September, the SCOPE event brought together more than 400 procurement managers, government representatives, project owners and contractors. Attendees gained direct access to industry leaders, procurement insights and networking opportunities designed to connect suppliers with decision-makers.
For participants, the experience provided valuable exposure to potential new markets, procurement pathways and business opportunities that may not otherwise have been accessible.
Waalitj Foundation Business Coach Louise O’Reilly said the program was designed to ensure businesses felt prepared and confident before stepping into the event.
“Networking can be challenging, particularly in environments where business owners are meeting senior decision-makers. This program focused on building confidence, refining key messaging and helping participants approach these opportunities with a clear plan and purpose,” she said.
“The goal was not only to support participants attend the events, but to ensure they could build genuine relationships and identify opportunities that support long-term business growth.”
Blak Nation Business owner Denise Edwards OAM said the program enabled her to be more confident in discussing her businesses and engaging in networking opportunities.
“The pitching program and workbook were extremely helpful and presented to us in an easy and skilful way.”
The final stage of the program saw participants attend a post-event workshop, where they reviewed the connections made, discussed opportunities identified during the events and developed practical follow-up strategies to strengthen new relationships and convert leads into future business outcomes.
Through the Waalitj Hub, First Nations business owners have access to a wide range of free services, including state-of-the-art facilities, mentoring from business coaches, industry connections, and independent professional services. Clients can receive specialised support in key business areas such as tendering, marketing, and legal. Since its establishment in 2020, the Waalitj Hub has assisted over 800 businesses in achieving their goals.
The Waalitj Hub supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people wanting to start, grow or sustain their businesses through a combination of in-house business coaching and access to professional support and is supported by the National Indigenous Australians Agency, as well as State Government and Corporate partners. Find out more.
