Empowering Indigenous Entrepreneurship

Malcolm Binder, a proud Noongar man with ties to Ballardong and Yued country, is carving a unique path in the refrigeration, air conditioning, and electrical services industry. The founder of Boya Refrigeration, Malcolm’s journey from an unexpected business venture to a burgeoning enterprise is both inspiring and transformative.

“I never wanted to be in business,” said Malcolm candidly. But as his career progressed, Malcolm found himself at the helm of his own venture. The challenges were abundant, yet the fulfillment derived from running his own business became the driving force behind Boya.

“I always knew that I had a bigger purpose than just working for a company and being sent to jobs,” reflected Malcolm.

“Now I’m here. I’m like, this is my purpose in life. I know what I need to do and it’s amazing. It’s great.”

Boya’s growth trajectory brought Malcolm to the Waalitj Hub where his business coach has played a pivotal role in guiding Malcolm through the intricacies of entrepreneurship. Recognizing the need for solid foundations, the support Malcolm has received focused on critical elements including a business plan and a capability statement.

“The Hub has given me access to services, linking me up with other Aboriginal-owned businesses to provide the support or documentation I need.”

Describing his experience with The Waalitj Hub, Malcolm emphasized the importance of feeling comfortable and empowered. The welcoming atmosphere, coupled with positive encouragement, has made the daunting prospect of entrepreneurship more manageable.

“Walking in and having an idea or ideas for a business and going to your business coach or whoever it is you speak to, and they say to you, ‘That’s a great idea. Let’s do it.’ That is empowering. That’s positive.”

For Malcolm, The Hub’s most significant impact lies in education.

“So far, it’s definitely education. Being given the tools to educate myself. That, I feel, has been the most important thing,” he said.

Boya’s journey is not just a personal success story for Malcolm; it’s a commitment to creating opportunities for his family and community. His vision for the next five years is rooted in sustainability and giving back.

“I want Boya to be sustainable. I want to take on an Indigenous apprentice and provide opportunities for my community.

“If anyone ever wears a Boya shirt, even if they only spend a year of their apprenticeship with me, I want them to go, ‘Wow, Malcolm and the crew taught me amazing things. Boya is a great company.'”

Malcolm encourages those contemplating entrepreneurship to overcome any hesitation.

“Don’t be ashamed. Don’t be embarrassed. At least take the first step and make a phone call. Even if you don’t feel comfortable, don’t be embarrassed. Don’t feel shame. There’s nothing to worry about. And it’s exciting.”

Through Boya and with the support of The Hub, he is not only building a successful business but also breaking barriers and inspiring others to follow suit. The next five years hold the promise of sustainability, growth, and a legacy of knowledge-sharing.

Through the Waalitj Hub, Indigenous business owners, like Malcolm, have access to a wide range of free services, including state-of-the-art facilities, mentoring from business coaches, industry connections, and independent professional services. Clients can receive specialized support in key business areas like tendering, marketing, and legal.

At the heart of our services is a drive to inspire and empower the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to build competitive, resilient businesses. Since its establishment in 2020, the Waalitj Hub has assisted over 400 Indigenous clients in achieving their business goals.

The Waalitj Hub supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people wanting to start, grow or sustain their businesses through a combination of in-house business coaching and access to professional support and is supported by the National Indigenous Australians Agency and Corporate partners. Find out more.