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Igniting Unity: NAIDOC Week at Kinetic IT

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Kinetic IT acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work, and tens of thousands of years of knowledge and technology that Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples have developed and passed down through each generation. We pay our respects to the Elders past and present. 

As we bid farewell to NAIDOC Week 2024, Kinetic IT are reflecting on a journey of learning and growth as we walk together towards the future.

This year’s NAIDOC Week saw crew from across Australia join in a Virtual Yarning Circle hosted by our partners at Evolve Communities, as we explored the significance of NAIDOC Week and this year’s theme – Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud – which honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations people, communities and culture.

Over at our head office in Perth, crew came together to participate in an Aboriginal art activity facilitated by Service Desk Technician and Wiradjuri woman Alice Waters, learning about the meaning behind symbols and the place of art in cultural expression.

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Several crew also attended the NAIDOC Perth Gala at the Crown Ballroom, with a great Welcome to Country by Uncle Nick Abraham, performances by Pipeline Band, Natasha Blurton, the Koodas dance troupe from Bibbulman Country, a performance group from Zenadh Kes/Torres Strait Islands and the beloved musical icon Jessica Mauboy.

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Kinetic IT has entered the second half of its current Reconciliation Action Plan period, we’ve had some time to reflect thoughtfully as we prepare for the next steps of our journey.

With that in mind, we’ve asked our executive team to share some reflections on this year’s NAIDOC theme, and our reconciliation journey so far:

“Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’ celebrates the unwavering spirit and resilience of Indigenous communities. It encourages us to celebrate Indigenous culture and to stand tall in the heritage that has been passed down through generations. This theme is a powerful reminder of the importance of solidarity and support in the face of adversity.

Kinetic IT’s journey towards reconciliation has been marked by a genuine commitment to understanding and supporting Indigenous communities. We have embraced the opportunity to learn from First Nations people and to integrate their perspectives into our ways of working. Our commitment is ongoing, and we remain dedicated to fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and equality.”
Michael North
Chief Executive Officer, Kinetic IT
“This year’s NAIDOC theme is all about the strength and spirit of Indigenous communities, and making sure that we amplify Indigenous narratives, and listen to their voices.  Understanding how we can provide the support that is needed to increase the empowerment of Indigenous employees and communities and follow their lead and guidance. Trust is not given it is earnt and we need to continue to engage in a genuine and respectful manner.
 
Our reconciliation journey whilst still an early phase, is already showing promise for what is ahead. I am proud of the work done to date by the Reconciliation Working Group and in particular the leadership from our Indigenous employees who are showing us the way.
As we continue on this reconciliation journey I encourage of all us to seek the truth, build knowledge challenge our personal bias and question the narratives we have constructed about ourselves and others. This requires courage and preparedness to be open to changing our minds but in doing so we may just build enough momentum to propel ourselves forward rather than remaining here in the present or worse in the past.”
Rowena Stocks
Chief People Officer, Kinetic IT
“After gaining an appreciation of Indigenous culture when I spent 18 months in the traditional lands of the Miriwoong nearly 30 years ago, it is pleasing to see NAIDOC Week being “deadly” and unapologetically strong in celebrating this year’s theme. Our Kinetic IT reconciliation journey in 2024 has really taken a positive step forward in recognising and celebrating the unique qualities of Indigenous culture and genuine potential that can be offered through ICT and STEM participation.  It has truly reinvigorated the appreciation I have held since my time in the traditional lands of the Miriwoong.”
Russell Decent
Chief Financial Officer, Kinetic IT
“This year’s NAIDOC theme, “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud”  highlights the vitality and endurance of culture, and points to the connection with Country and community, and celebration of identity. It’s wonderful being part of Kinetic IT’s reconciliation journey, listening, learning and connecting with others. And this goes beyond NAIDOC Week, it’s a continuous journey that we’re sharing together. “
Cassie Loder
Group Executive / Transport, Resources, Energy & Commercial, Kinetic IT
“The reconciliation journey at Kinetic IT, as it is for all, is just a tremendous opportunity to learn about Indigenous culture and the critical part it plays and continues to play in our Australian landscape.
Awareness and understanding, as with learning and development are continuous for each of us, with NAIDOC week reminding and motivating all to continue the journey together!”
Leighton Freene
Group Executive / Federal, Defence & Emergency Services, Kinetic IT
“This year’s NAIDOC theme speaks to the need to amplify indigenous voices and really listen to the wisdom handed down through generations.  Hardships, challenges, and truths need to be surfaced and understood to allow a future filled with unity and the celebration of heritage, country and culture.

Involvement in Kinetic IT’s reconciliation has exposed me to amazing conversations with insightful indigenous leaders, youth and crew.  This exposure challenged some mistruths I held but didn’t even know I had.  Greater understanding of the impact combined with acknowledgement of actions from our shared heritage is creating a strong foundation to work from.  Indigenous wisdom and knowledge holds a key component to solving many modern problems in Australia and globally.  I’m excited about future opportunities reconciliation will bring.”
Brett Roberts
Chief Solutions Officer, Kinetic IT
“This NAIDOC Week is about recognising the strength and wisdom within Indigenous communities. As corporates, our role is not to provide solutions, but to listen deeply to Elders’ voices, centre their narratives, and walk alongside them in genuine partnership towards a better future.
 
Kinetic IT’s reconciliation journey reflects the transformative power of ICT. By honouring Indigenous perspectives and fostering inclusivity within our sector, we can unlock a wealth of innovation and knowledge. This NAIDOC Week, let’s commit to creating space where diverse voices collaborate to solve the world’s challenges and build a brighter future, together.”
Richard Williams
Group Executive / Corporate Performance, Kinetic IT

As we move forward, we aim to integrate the wisdom and perspectives of First Nations people into our ways of working, creating a more inclusive and culturally safe environment for all.

Together, we can ensure that the flames of Indigenous culture continue to burn brightly, enriching our nation and paving the way for a future where the stories, traditions, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are cherished and celebrated.

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Find out more about Kinetic IT’s Reconciliation Action Plan, and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

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Acknowledgement of Country

Kinetic IT acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which our crew, customers and communities live and work across Australia. We acknowledge the enduring connections Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have with land, sea, and community, as the oldest continuous culture in the world. We pay our respects to the Elders past and present and commit to ensuring that we operate in a fair and ethical manner that respects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ rights.

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