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Program Coordinator, Jen McHugh was pleased to represent the TNQ Drought Hub’s Sustainable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Program (SATSIE) at the Black Coffee event on Thursday Island, held as part of the 2024 Indigenous Business Month (IBM).
The event took place on 25 October at Lagaw Titui Café (Island Stars Coffee) and was hosted by the Department of Tourism.
As part of IBM, the Department of Tourism also 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.
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 saw 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. The discussions focused on the unique challenges and opportunities of running businesses in the Torres Strait, particularly with the large influx of tourist cruises expected in 2025.
A highlight of the morning was the coffee served by senior students from Tagai College, 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.
