Powerful paths: First Nations women recognised for business leadership

Dianne Bortoletto and Zak Kirkup Published September 29, 2025 at 6.00am (AWST)

business

Sharna Collard was awarded a 40 Under 40 Award for her contribution to building Kooya Fleet Solutions Australia, one of Australia's most successful Aboriginal-owned fleet companies. (Image: supplied)

Two of Western Australia's most dynamic young Aboriginal businesswomen, Eva Stewart of Australian Indigenous Group (AIG) and Sharna Collard of Kooya Fleet Solutions Australia, have been recognised for their leadership, innovation and impact at the prestigious 40 Under 40 Awards.

The annual awards celebrate Western Australia's rising stars across all sectors, acknowledging those who are not only excelling in their fields but contributing meaningfully to the broader community.

Eva Stewart, a proud Pinikura woman, was recognised for her outstanding achievements as Managing Director of AIG — a company delivering a range of services across the resource sector. Under her leadership, AIG has grown its capabilities and presence across the Pilbara, with a strong focus on creating employment and training pathways for Aboriginal people.

Sharna Collard, a proud Noongar woman and Chief Executive Officer of Kooya Fleet Solutions Australia, was also recognised for her contribution to building one of Australia's most successful Aboriginal-owned fleet companies.

*Australian Indigenous Group Managing Director and 40 Under 40 Award recipient, Eva Stewart. (Image: supplied)*

Collard continues to give back to the Aboriginal community by sharing a percentage of all Kooya's profits with the Bibbulum Fund, a community-based fund established by Kooya and Kulbardi Pty Ltd. Both Steward and Collard are breaking new ground and providing a powerful example for future generations of First Nations entrepreneurs.

"Winning a Business News 40Under40 award as an Aboriginal woman in business is more than personal recognition — it's a celebration of resilience, culture, and community," says Collard.

"It's proof that our stories, values, and leadership belong at the forefront of business and innovation.

"I hope this recognition inspires other First Nations women to know that their voice and vision are not only valid, but vital to the future of business in this country."

Fortescue has played a significant role in supporting the growth of both businesses through long-term contracts and commercial partnerships. The company's commitment to sustainable Indigenous procurement and capability-building has seen it partner with hundreds of Aboriginal businesses over the past decade, spending more than $5 billion with Aboriginal business and suppliers in recent years.