What happens when Indigenous philosophies and collective leadership models are integrated into business education? Can this approach foster more sustainable, community-focused enterprises in today's global market?

Today’s guest is Michelle Evans, an esteemed Indigenous scholar and leader in the field of business education. Michelle is the director of the Dylan Dua Centre for Indigenous Business Leadership and associate dean at the University of Melbourne. She co-founded several programs designed to empower Indigenous businesses, including the Murra Indigenous Business Master Class and the Willan Centre for Indigenous Arts and Cultural Development. As a prominent advocate for integrating Indigenous knowledge into business, Michelle is at the forefront of efforts to reshape how business education is delivered in Australia.

In this episode, we explore the vital intersection of Indigenous education and business. Michelle shares her journey from theater arts to business leadership, driven by a passion for empowering Indigenous communities through entrepreneurship. We dive into her pioneering work on the Murra Indigenous Business Master Class program and the development of new graduate programs aimed at fostering the next generation of Indigenous business leaders. Michelle explains how Indigenous businesses serve as vehicles for self-determination, cultural preservation, and social change. We also discuss the unique challenges these businesses face and how they contribute significantly to the Australian economy. Through this conversation, listeners gain insight into how holistic, transdisciplinary business models can create sustainable growth while respecting community and cultural values. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the transformative power of Indigenous leadership in shaping the future of business.