Queensland-based artist and business owner Belinda Day is on a mission to help improve completion rates in First Nations apprentices by creating employment pathways for Indigenous women and keeping culture strong through her work.
As the founder of BindiLee Painting Services, a 100 per cent female and Indigenous-owned business, Ms Day is mentoring the next generation of Indigenous women through apprenticeships, with her first apprentice set to qualify this year.
"I didn't have those opportunities when I was younger," she said.
"I wanted to create a space where Indigenous women felt supported and confident to learn and grow."
The talented artist's journey into the trade began in the Northern Territory, where she became the first Indigenous woman in Central Australia to be employed as an apprentice painter and decorator.
She later progressed into a leadership role, supervising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teams in the construction industry.
"I was always determined to help Indigenous people get into the workforce, especially supporting the young Indigenous people to get ready for work," she said.
Ms Day's artistic practice has become a powerful form of storytelling, drawing on her deep connection to land, culture and community.
Through an introduction to Boom Logistics' chief executive officer and managing director Lester Fernandez, Ms Day collaborated with the business to design the artwork for its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
"I felt like my voice was heard the whole way through," she said.
"They respected my style, and I was able to bring my own perspective to bring their vision to life."
Mr Fernandez said Boom was proud to have partnered with Ms Day and be offered the opportunity to showcase her artwork as part of the RAP.
"It's important for companies to create meaningful connections with local communities and ensure indigenous voices are represented in an authentic way," Ms Fernandez said.
"By working together, we can build stronger connections with communities and support pathways for Indigenous businesses to grow and thrive."
The artwork, titled Grounded Together, is a visual representation of connection, strength and shared purpose which reinforces Boom Logistics' commitment to the local communities and offering opportunities for First Nations people.
The collaboration between Ms Day and Boom Logistics is an example of encouragement for more Indigenous women to enter the trade sector and highlights the importance of growing her business.
"The girls have really come a long way," she said.
"I see them picking up the tools and learning fast, and I am proud to be able to give them that start.
"I feel like I'm at the stage where I can be an example, and hopefully the next generation will go even further."
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