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Ethnic Business Awards inspire success

Alspec is a proud sponsor of these prestigious awards which recognise the achievements of migrant and Indigenous Australian business people.

After a 2-year break, the Ethnic Business Awards gala night returned in February 2022, shining a light on the diverse range of Australians who contribute to our economy and society. Attended by more than 200 guests, celebrities and notable speakers, the event showcased the 12 award finalists before announcing the winners:

• Medium to Large Business - Josef Chromy, JAC Group & Josef Chromy Wines, Tasmania
• Small Business - Dr Ved Berani, Healthy Smiles Dental Group, Victoria
• Indigenous in Business - Ray Pratt, DICE, Northern Territory

The awards were established in 1998 by the Ethnic Business Awards Foundation, with the initial goal of recognising the efforts of Australia’s vast migrant population. With nearly 30% of Australians being born overseas, a growing number of businesses were being established and run by migrants and the Awards aimed to celebrate their success stories.  The Ethnic Business Award is split into two categories: the Small Business Award (turnover under $10 million) and the Medium-Large Business Award (turnover in excess of $10 million).

In 2010, the Awards were expanded to include the Indigenous in Business Award, acknowledging the unique part played by First Nations Australians in the business environment. This award highlights the contribution made by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people, with finalists and their stories acting as role models and inspiring others to succeed.

In 2022 a further award was added, the Global Harmony Award, which recognises people who are “agents for change’, advancing business while promoting peace and mutual understanding in Australia and beyond. It was awarded to the late Henry Ngai, of ABC Tissue.

Judging for the awards takes into consideration factors such as the hardships endured, financial and social obstacles overcome, the originality, viability and sustainability of the nominated business and the overall contribution to the Australian community.

Nominees for the Ethnic Business Award must meet criteria including being born overseas (but now having citizenship or permanent residency), owning whole or part of the nominated business, operating in a financially transparent manner and complying with all Federal and State Government legislation. For the Indigenous in Business Award, the entry criteria are similar, with the exception that entrants must be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.

As a sponsor of the Awards, Alspec understands the importance of acknowledging the contribution Indigenous Australian and migrant business people make to the world of commerce and congratulates those who have been recognised.

For details of this year’s winners or for further information about supporting the Awards, please visit the Ethnic Business Awards website:

https://www.ethnicbusinessawards.com/