Brisbane small business leaders came together this week for the inaugural Workforce Evolve Leaders Forum, exploring how diverse and inclusive workplaces can drive growth and innovation.

The morning opened with Graham Ross, co-founder of BlockTexx, a pioneering chemical recycler of post-consumer blended textiles. Graham shared how his team has embedded diversity and inclusion into their operations, partnering with The Big Issue, HELP Enterprises, and Queensland Corrective Services to support skills development, long-term employment, and improved life opportunities.

Next, Nina Cash, Manager of Employment Inclusion at Autism Queensland, brought her extensive experience in disability and neurodivergent employment to the discussion. Nina highlighted practical ways organisations can create environments where neurodivergent individuals not only participate but thrive.

We then heard from Jenna Mottin, co-owner and senior speech pathologist at TalkHQ Speech Pathology and a Workforce Evolve Verified participant. Jenna shared how the program has helped her attract and retain staff in regional Queensland, strengthening her team and business.

The forum concluded with the presentation of certificates to Workforce Evolve Verified businesses:
Cameron Kretschmann and Lee Marshall – K2MP, Clare Huxley – GovPartners, Georgia Paulsen – eInstitute, Helen Gormlie – Pedigree Home Services, and Jenna Mottin – TalkHQ Speech Pathology.

It was inspiring to see small business leaders come together for meaningful conversations and shared learnings, reinforcing the value of inclusive practices in building stronger businesses and communities.

Workforce Evolve is proudly funded by the Queensland Government.