Changing the rules of the game

17 October 2025 
First Nations Affairs

Meet three inspiring First Nations women leading the way in business in Western Australia: Jasmine Kadic, co-founder of Benang, a multidisciplinary infrastructure construction company delivering critical projects across the state; Paula White, owner and director of PMW Industries, a mining services business focused on empowering Traditional Owners and building First Nations capacity in the resources sector; and Tenay Stringer, founder and managing director of Marlee Resources, a business dedicated to creating opportunities and meaningful impact through mining and civil services. 

These three women, along with many other First Nations women, are trailblazers. They’re rewriting the rules of business, reshaping industries on their own terms, and bringing innovation grounded in culture.

As part of Indigenous Business Month 2025, we sat down with these three leaders for a candid conversation about their journeys, challenges, and hopes for the future.

What inspired you to start your own business? 
Jasmine: “Business was a way to reconnect with community and bring diverse perspectives together.” 
Paula: “Starting my own business allowed me to advocate for Traditional Owners and make a difference in the industry.” 
Tenay: “I wanted to create opportunities and change the narrative in mining, focusing on purpose and impact.”

How does your cultural heritage influence your business? 
Jasmine: “Our business, Benang, means ‘tomorrow’ in Noongar. We blend tradition with progress, aiming for both commercial and social impact.” 
Paula: “Cultural heritage shapes our values and ensures we collaborate for the benefit of our communities.” 
Tenay: “Culture is at our core—respect, care for Country, and building a supportive, inclusive workplace.”

What does a typical day look like for you as a business owner? 
Jasmine: “My day starts with my children, then meetings, deadlines, and advocacy work. I always try to reflect on what will make the most impact.” 
Paula: “No two days are the same. I focus on staff wellbeing, safety, and supporting our team’s growth, while managing business operations and cashflow.” 
Tenay: “It’s a balancing act—juggling family, management meetings, site trips, and client work. Every day brings something new.”

What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a First Nations woman in business? 
Jasmine: “Balancing business ownership, motherhood, and community advocacy, while overcoming market confidence and risk stigma.” 
Paula: “Accessing equipment and employing Indigenous people in technical roles, as mining companies often have the monopoly.” 
Tenay: “Navigating procurement with large corporations and managing cash flow and payment delays.”

What advice would you give to other First Nations women? 
Jasmine: “Surround yourself with good people and don’t be afraid to take the leap.” 
Paula: “Know your mindset and goals. It’s not easy, but resilience is key.” 
Tenay: “Start small, back yourself, and stay connected to your ‘why’.”

The theme of Indigenous Business Month 2025 is ‘Strength through Collaboration’, celebrating the power of working together. NAB proudly embraces this principle, as we continue to walk alongside First Nations businesses and recognising the vital role they play in their communities and to the nation’s economy. 

#IndigenousBusinessMonth2025