Cape York Partnership has won the Indigenous Business Excellence Award at the 2024 Cairns Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards (BEX), celebrating their dedication to empowering Indigenous people across Far North Queensland.
The award places CYP among a distinguished group of Indigenous-led organisations and initiatives recognised for making a significant impact on Indigenous communities.
For more than two decades, CYP has focused on education, employment, health, and cultural preservation, creating lasting change across the region from Cairns to Cape York.
With a staff of more than 370 – 65 per cent Indigenous – CYP delivers development and empowerment programs tailored to Indigenous communities.
Cape York Partnership Group CEO, Fiona Jose at the FInalist's Evening. (Image: Supplied)
CYP Group chief executive Fiona Jose attributed the award to the hard work of staff and the engagement of local communities.
"This award is an excellent acknowledgment of our team's daily hard work," she said.
"It recognises the passion and dedication of our people, especially those working directly in our communities.
"Their efforts are what make our mission possible. We don't see this as just a win for Cape York Partnership but for the families and communities we serve."
Judges praised CYP as a model for Indigenous-led development, describing it as an "outstanding nonprofit" with a "transformative role in improving the lives of Indigenous Australians."
"CYP's commitment to sustainable development and measurable outcomes showcases their transformative role in improving the lives of Indigenous Australians," they said.
Another judge highlighted CYP's initiatives, including Mayi Market, School to Jobs, and Pama Platform, as "hugely commendable".
"The collection of initiatives included are compelling and demonstrate a holistic approach to supporting Indigenous Australians and communities," they said.
Cape York Institue for Policy and Leadership CEO Kirsty Davis receiving the award on behlaf of CYP. (Image: Supplied)
Ms Jose expressed pride but noted the ongoing challenges faced by CYP.
"This award serves as a reminder that when we work together, we can achieve great things," she said.
"It motivates us to continue pushing forward and find new ways to support and uplift Indigenous families in Far North Queensland.
"Every success story is a step closer to breaking the cycle of disadvantage and creating a future where every person has the opportunity to thrive."
CYP congratulated the other finalists in the Indigenous Business Excellence category, honouring their contributions to the community and celebrating the positive impacts being made across the region.
