Palyku woman Jadah Pleiter has been named as a finalist for Indigenous Businesswoman of the Year at Supply Nation's 2025 Supplier Diversity Awards.
Ms Pleiter is the Founder and CEO of Panku Safety Solutions, a Melbourne and Perth-based provider of personal protective equipment.
She started her first business to earn extra income for her children's swimming lessons but said discovering Supply Nation and the Indigenous Procurement Policy changed her outlook.
"Along the journey I became aware of Supply Nation and the IPP and I realised I had before me an opportunity to build generational wealth," she said.
"My great-grandmother worked as a domestic servant without receiving wages... the Aboriginal Protector was paid 13 shillings and sixpence to have her. I think I owe it to her to take these opportunities and make something of it."
Panku Safety Solutions takes a relational and solutions-focused approach grounded in Aboriginal values.
Ms Pleiter said the company's core principle of relational reciprocity sets it apart.
"Coupled together with the 60+ years of technical and industry experience in our company, we are able to tailor outcomes for our clients to deliver mutual benefits and build long lasting relationships," she said.
Being recognised by Supply Nation is a significant moment for her.
"The business journey can be gruelling and you have to make a lot of sacrifices along the way," she said.
"Receiving recognition like this is a great honour and gives me the opportunity to stop and reflect on our achievements and celebrate them with others. When one of us succeeds we all succeed."
Ms Pleiter brings a broad professional background to her business, including project management, local government, pastoral care and training.
She said this helps her meet the needs of a diverse client base.
"Every business has different stakeholders with different agendas and needs. It's important to speak their language and address their needs," she said.
"Eighty percent of business is troubleshooting, and being able to approach problems with multiple perspectives and a genuine commitment to creating value is a strength in our business."
Reflecting on this year's NAIDOC theme, 'The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,' Ms Pleiter said her work is about raising up the next generation.
"We are here today because of those who have gone before," she said.
"We succeed in the present because of the community around us and collectively and individually we have an obligation to raise up the ones who will follow."
Panku Safety Solutions supports emerging business leaders and sponsors the Koorie Basketball Academy, which mentors young Indigenous athletes through both sport and cultural education.
The awards offer a moment to reflect, celebrate progress, and continue building a legacy for future generations.