The Oceania Digital X Pathways Program is a two-week intensive online initiative designed to empower Indigenous Australians with foundational digital skills, giving them the tools to explore entrepreneurship or digital employment. The program aims to bridge the digital divide and address social inequality by delivering a culturally sensitive curriculum designed by Indigenous people for Indigenous people. This offers participants a unique pathway to enter the digital marketplace, turning their passions into sustainable online businesses or influential platforms.
Aboriginal Victorians face significant barriers to economic participation, largely due to limited access to quality education and training that is culturally adapted for Indigenous people. There is a growing interest among Aboriginal people to establish businesses as a means to achieve economic independence and contribute to the economy. The challenge is to provide these aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills and support necessary to succeed in the digital age.
Learning to work smarter, not harder. These skills will help in your job and business long term, especially with the keen and eager support network/team available. - Participant feedback
FFV supported the Oceania Digital X Pathways Program with a Community Grant of $20,000 to help them meet this challenge. This donation provided $97,500 worth of products and services for 13 program participants.
The participants in the course had a range of reasons for joining – four had start-up businesses, five were already business owners, two worked in the creative arts and two were looking for a secondary income. They learnt foundational knowledge in e-commerce, digital marketing, sales growth, content creation, social media, branding, IP protection and AI automation, gaining tools and resources to make informed decisions about venturing into small business ownership. But the program goes beyond mere skill acquisition, incorporating mindset modules and featuring daily inspirational talks from successful Indigenous entrepreneurs.
It’s ignited excitement to see what new flare I can add to my position to continue to help and support my community.
- Participant feedback
This approach not only equips participants with technical skills but also empowers them to overcome limiting beliefs and embrace their potential as digital entrepreneurs.
Throughout the program, participants receive guidance from an ecosystem of 15 national partners, ensuring ongoing mentorship and support. This holistic approach helps participants to refine their entrepreneurial journeys and navigate the complexities of the digital landscape.
“Any Vic Mob, or anyone that knows any Vic Mob, these pathway courses are game changing! Jump on and register, easy to follow, very interactive and will give you so much confidence and knowledge to move forward with your current or future entrepreneurship endevours.“
Renae Hunt (on LinkedIn)
By closing the digital gap, the program enables Indigenous Australians to engage in digital entrepreneurial activities, leading to an increase in Indigenous-owned online businesses, social media profiles and digital portfolios. As participants gain confidence and skills, their stories of success and challenges will inspire others in the community, contributing to a ripple effect of digital literacy and economic empowerment. The program also plays a crucial role in increasing Indigenous representation in the digital space. As participants emerge as role models and digital champions, they will inspire future generations of Indigenous entrepreneurs and contribute to a broader narrative of cultural empowerment and innovation.
