Celebrating the Growth of Karabena Consulting: A Journey of Resilience and Vision

Professor Kerry Arabena
Managing Director

Introduction: Milestones and Recognition

As I stand among the 2024 Kinaway Victorian Aboriginal Business Awards nominees, I reflect on the trajectory of Karabena Consulting. This recognition signifies far more than a milestone; it acknowledges the endurance, shared vision, and purpose woven through the work we do. Karabena Consulting began in 2018, emerging from a time of personal reassessment when I left a full-time Professorial position. The academic world, though formative, was ultimately unsupportive, and a series of family losses led me to re-evaluate how I wanted to contribute to the world. With the backing of a close network, I took the plunge into full-time business ownership, and Karabena Consulting was born.

Through partnerships with initiatives like Ilan Style and First 1000 Days Australia, we’ve created a foundation for transformative work. Each project we undertake, whether in health, community development, or social impact, aims to advance the wellbeing and agency of our communities. Each product we develop, is an opportunity to partner with another female entrepreneur. It is rewarding to know that our work is not only meeting immediate needs but also building lasting infrastructure for the future.

The Path to Entrepreneurship and Leadership

Karabena Consulting began with a clear vision: to offer culturally grounded and strategically impactful consulting services that benefit Indigenous Australians. The transition to entrepreneurship brought with it a steep learning curve. Practical questions about software, systems, and logistics were early challenges I navigated with the guidance of mentors and supporters. When I recognised that our needs were quickly outgrowing my capacity, I brought on my daughter-in-law as an Executive Assistant. From this foundational team, Karabena grew—eventually establishing an office in Sunbury, employing 12 staff members, and taking on a steady pipeline of purposeful projects.

Holding true to my values has meant standing firm under the weight of financial and ethical pressures. I’ve been confronted with the realities of business as an Indigenous-owned consultancy, sometimes having to appeal to funders to release overdue payments or face stark cash flow shortages. I’ve had moments with only $876 in the business account, yet salaries were due within a fortnight. I’ve been asked by salaried government employees to drop our prices, and I’ve repeatedly confronted the undervaluation of Indigenous expertise—such as the occasions I was asked to evaluate multimillion-dollar projects with mere fraction-of-the-value budgets. Despite these pressures, I’ve remained focused on our vision, proving that Indigenous leadership and business can and must be valued appropriately.

Challenges: Financial Struggles and Ethical Dilemmas

The challenges have been many, yet they’ve shaped my resilience. At times, financial hardship made it seem as if keeping the doors open required miracles. I recall periods when I had to negotiate with funders, clarify the value of our work to government clients, and fend off perceptions that Indigenous-led consultancies should somehow come at a discount. These experiences taught me that although the path of an Indigenous business owner is often harder, each obstacle underscored the necessity of our work and our worth. We bring not just services but cultural integrity and community commitment—qualities that deserve respect and fair compensation.

Learning to Take Calculated Risks

I’ve learned much about my own risk profile through this journey. I am not a gambler, yet I am not risk-averse. This perspective has given me the clarity to make strategic decisions while maintaining a solid foundation for growth. By balancing risk with a commitment to quality and consistency, I’ve been able to align the company’s offerings with both the market’s needs and our ethical imperatives. Taking calculated risks has been essential, allowing Karabena to navigate uncertainties without compromising our core values.

Building the Business I Wished For in My Own Career

In shaping Karabena Consulting, I aimed to create a workplace that embodies balance, purpose, and respect for life beyond the office. I introduced a four-day workweek, allowing our team members the flexibility to manage personal appointments, pursue their interests, or spend time with family—something I rarely experienced during my own career. Additionally, I prioritised access to professional development, supporting employees in obtaining advanced qualifications like Masters in Business or Diplomas in Human Resources. We are not only building a company but cultivating leaders and advocates for Indigenous empowerment.

The Impact of Investing in People

Watching my team grow has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of this journey. Investing in their development is not merely a business strategy; it is a means of contributing to the broader landscape of Indigenous professional capacity. Each person who grows with Karabena contributes to the ongoing success of Indigenous communities. By fostering skills and competencies in-house, we build a foundation of cultural insight, professional expertise, and communal strength that benefits both our clients and our society.

A Heartfelt Acknowledgment of Support

Reflecting on the journey, I am immensely grateful for the network of supporters who believed in Karabena and in me from the beginning. From colleagues and mentors to funders and friends, every bit of support has been essential. I give my deepest thanks to each person who lent their time, insights, and encouragement, helping to shape a company that now stands as a testament to resilience and collaboration.

The Future of Karabena Consulting

Looking ahead, I am optimistic about the future of Karabena Consulting and the potential of Indigenous businesses. I see a future where Indigenous-led enterprises are recognised for their unique insights and empowered to lead change. To other aspiring business leaders, I say: trust in your vision, honour the support of your communities, and remain steadfast in your values. The journey may be challenging, but our work has the power to transform not only lives but the very structures of our society.