Michael is a member of the Stolen Generations, an Aboriginal man of the Gamilaroi Nation and was born, raised and has lived his whole life in Sydney. Michael sees himself as an educator sharing stories spanning from contemporary urban based artist 'Guwaali', to cultural representative with the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council. He has a deep understanding and appreciation of diversity, believing it gives greater insight into humanity and oneself. The art and practice of burning and creating 'Message Sticks' is about healing and practising his culture - they are used for symbolism, marking points in the continuum and the education of people about history and Aboriginal perspectives.
Michael has had a variety of current and previous roles, including Director NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, Director Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN), Co-Chair National Sorry Day Committee, Delegate National Congress of Australia's First Peoples, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee to the Board of Headspace, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group, Australian Curriculum Assessment Reporting Authority and Cultural Advisor for Tedx Sydney.
Kristal Kinsela is a proud and passionate Indigenous business leader and owner who is an expert at connecting people and moving them into action.
Through determination, resilience and hard work, Kristal built her own professional career and then a multi-million dollar consultancy business. Today, she channels her experience and energy into helping others succeed.
A descendant of both the Jawoyn and Wiradjuri nations,
Kristal brings her personal story and over 16 years of business expertise to every project. She has worked with well known global businesses and every level of government to drive their supplier diversity efforts, helping them develop procurement plans, up-skill their teams and have a positive impact on their communities.
Kristal authored the first book published in Australia on Indigenous business procurement, Supplier Diversity How, based on her proven approach. It is the ultimate guide on supplier diversity, outlining five simple steps to follow. Kristal's grounded approach and winning attitude make her the ideal partner and expert advisor for any organisation determined to achieve more.