Chris Schmid, founder of Woollahra Group and Waalitj Hub client, has been awarded the top honour at the 40under40 Business Awards.
Chris is a proud Mandandanji man from Queensland, growing up in Roma and Saint George.
Chris was presented with 2 awards, the Indigenous Business Award and the First Amongst Equals. The Indigenous Business Award recognises the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander entrepreneurs and businesses. The First Amongst Equals award, highlights individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and success.
Chris emphasised the importance of giving back to community ‘we’ve always supported the communities in everything we do, so wherever we transact, we tie back into traditional owner groups or organisations.’
Woollahra Group is a 100% Indigenous owned, manufacturer and distributor of cleaning, janitorial and hygiene products.
Chris’ favourite part of his job is being able to support community initiatives, ‘that’s the best thing, seeing your funds contributing towards, whether it’s a specific program or a community and just being immersed.’
‘Our goal is to be the most impactful company in Australia so the next phase for us is to expand those community initiatives nationally’, Chris said, sharing his vision for the future.
‘Woollahra started at the Hub and has been built on the hard work of Chris, Reece and Sam. They are a success story as they have gone on to purchase their chemicals manufacturer and are now looking to export to Southeast Asia. Chris is the embodiment of commitment and perseverance.’ Said Gohar, former General Manager of our Waalitj Hub.
Chris spoke about his experience with the Hub and what he’d say to businesses wanting to join, ‘Do it earlier, do it sooner…The programs, the whole organisation has been absolutely tremendous.’
Congratulations to Chris Schmid and the Woollahra Group for their well-deserved recognition!
The Waalitj Hub supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, through in-house coaching and professional support, empowering communities and fostering growth, supported by the National Indigenous Australians Agency and Corporate partners. Find out more.
