The First Nations House Summit, held during Perth's West Tech Fest, unveiled a transformative initiative aimed at empowering First Nations leaders, entrepreneurs, and youth worldwide.

The event focused on economic independence, collaboration, and cultural heritage while fostering global connections.

Canadian Australian Chamber of Commerce CEO Melissa Wharton was a key speaker at the summit, sharing insights on Indigenous trade and economic empowerment.

She described her organisation's mission.

"Our mission is to promote trade and investment between Australia and Canada," Ms Wharton said.

"Indigenous trade is a key part of that strategy."

The summit highlighted the importance of global collaboration, where Ms Wharton stressed meaningful connections are essential to see progress.

"You can't just meet someone and get things done immediately. Connection takes time, but it leads to collaboration, which is crucial for progress," she said.

Ms Wharton shared the success of their first Indigenous trade mission to Australia in August.

"It's been a long time coming, but now we're building momentum to bring an Aboriginal trade mission to Canada," she said.

"I find Canada and Australia share a kinship—sort of cousins, if you will.

"It's an easy market to get into, and we're bridging that gap to connect businesses domestically and internationally."

The summit provided a platform for discussions on the challenges facing Indigenous businesses.

Ms Wharton cautioned against inefficiencies and tokenism in large organisations.

"Sometimes, meetings lead to more meetings, and years later, we realise little has been accomplished," she said.

"Indigenous businesses don't have the time to waste—they are the founders, creators, and workers."

Highlighting actionable steps, she pointed to the importance of clear goals and effective planning.

"I always ask, 'What does success look like?' We need to reverse-engineer that vision and figure out the steps to get there," she said.

Funding emerged as a key issue during Ms Wharton's interview.

"Funding, funding, funding—it makes a massive difference. Often, consultations don't translate to tangible outcomes, and we need to be aware of that," she said.

The summit bolstered quality connections, which Ms Wharton described as pivotal.

She recounted how a chance meeting at a Supply Nation gala led to long-lasting collaborations.

"It started with a conversation and grew into a web of collaboration," she said.

"That's how we promote initiatives like First Nations X."

Ms Wharton also spoke about the broader impact of providing opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs.

She highlighted the importance of inclusion.

"Allowing individuals into spaces they may not normally access can have a massive impact," she said.

"Connections made in these spaces can change the trajectory of a business."

Looking ahead, Ms Wharton expressed optimism about the growth of the First Nations House initiative.

"The connections made here are incredible, she said.

"In five years, I hope this summit will grow so large that we'll need a bigger venue to hold thousands of attendees."

The First Nations House Summit also featured speakers from Canada, the United States, and New Zealand, highlighting the shared experiences of First Nations communities worldwide.

Plans are already underway for a follow-up trip to Austin, Texas in 2025 to strengthen these global connections.

Western Australian Minister for Jobs and Trade, Stephen Dawson, commended the initiative, describing First Nations people as "our first scientists, inventors, and innovators".

He added that government programs are crucial for supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and breaking barriers.

Ms Wharton echoed these sentiments, pointing to the transformative potential of collaboration and economic empowerment.

"The ultimate goal is to broaden economic empowerment and increase exporters," she said.

The First Nations House Summit exemplified the power of collaboration and the potential for economic empowerment.

Ms Wharton's insights and leadership reflected the broader vision of the summit—to unite First Nations voices on a global stage and create lasting opportunities for Indigenous communities.