I was inspired to set up my business because...
I disliked working for others! Haha.
No, in truth I have always had a passion for enterprise, working with young people and travelling and was frustrated working for entities that worked with a focus on problems.
I am surrounded by talent living in the top end, so decided to found an enterprise (Starwin) we take a strengths based approach to addressing community issues and creating change. I love working with the champions here, from the mums running their home based business to the industry leaders keen to showcase Indigenous talent all over the world. I chose to set up as a social enterprise so we are completely independent and can demonstrate that there is an alternate model to creating economic development.
The 3 biggest lessons I have learnt in business so far are ……
Be open with your time and expertise, but choose who with wisely.
And when challenges come your way that seem like obstacles to you achieving your dreams, ‘do it anyway’.
If I had to give other entrepreneurs a piece of good advice, it would be……..
Find a mentor who believes in you and be a sponge. I was fortunate enough to have a hero of mine Maurice Rioli guide me along the way when I first founded Starwin. Even though he is no longer with us, his wisdom and strength is what still pushes me along today. What especially sticks with me is the point he used to make ‘don’t bring me your problems, I cannot fix them. Bring me your solutions and I can help you fix your problems.’
What will your business be like in 5 years’ time ……
I’ll be sitting at the Women’s National AFL Grand Final watching one of our original Tiwi Bombers youth girls players starring and cheering them on!
Back home our enterprise will be led by a team of inspirational women in creating community change and will be based at a cultural hub – showcasing the best talent in the NT. A place where people can meet and greet and experience the best of the top end. We will be part of a strong network of B Corps across the top end who we will have assisted to achieve their B Corp status. And we will have a team of young people engaged in our career pathways program as aspiring entrepreneurs.
Karina Gray
Founder + Director
O402303867
93 Mitchell street
Darwin, NT