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Alana Kennedy

Founder & CEO / Ochre Sun

Alana Kennedy is a visionary Indigenous entrepreneur, economic advocate, and global trade educator, dedicated to expanding intertribal trade networks and empowering First Nations businesses.

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Alana_Kennedy_Headshot_Low_Res_40fd0ff49d.jpg

Alana Kennedy is a visionary Indigenous entrepreneur, economic advocate, and global trade educator, dedicated to expanding intertribal trade networks and empowering First Nations businesses. As an Eastern Arrernte, Kalkadoon, and Waanyi descendant from Mount Isa, Queensland, she is committed to bringing the world's oldest living supply chain to the global market through sustainable, ethical, and culturally grounded business models.

As Founder and CEO of Ochre Sun, Alana has built a vertically integrated skincare and sun care brand that merges traditional Indigenous botanical knowledge with modern scientific innovation. Ochre Sun is pioneering a Soil-to-Skin value exchange, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge, land stewardship, and cultivation practices remain at the core of the business. By working directly with Traditional Owners across Australia, Ochre Sun is redefining ethical sourcing, sustainable manufacturing, and premium clean beauty on a global scale.

As an Australian Delegate for the International Intertribal Trade & Investment Organisation (ITIO), Alana plays a critical role in advancing Indigenous trade agreements and strengthening economic partnerships between First Nations communities worldwide. She actively educates governments, corporations, and Indigenous entrepreneurs about the intricacies of global intertribal trade, advocating for fair trade policies, self-determined economic development, and the recognition of Indigenous intellectual property and land-based economies. Alana's expertise extends beyond business ownership — she is a thought leader in Indigenous-led trade, guiding businesses and policymakers on how to foster equitable, cross-cultural economic collaborations that respect and uplift Indigenous communities.

A Trailblazer in Sustainable & Ethical Business, Alana's work is setting new benchmarks in clean beauty, sustainable supply chains, and Indigenous economic empowerment. She is dedicated to transforming Indigenous enterprise into a global force, creating a business model that honours cultural heritage while delivering premium, scientifically backed skincare solutions. With a strong focus on sustainability, transparency, and ethical business practices, Alana Kennedy is not just building a brand-she's leading a movement. Through her advocacy for intertribal trade, economic self-determination, and Indigenous-led global commerce, she is reshaping the future of Indigenous business on the world stage.

 

FWD›››25 Speakers and Panellists

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Keynote

Dave Clare

Circle LeadershipFounder

Driven by a PURPOSE to evolve the world of work, Dave's sense of mission is clear: to redefine business success not just for the accolades but for the impact.

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Keynote

Elea Wurth

DeloitteLead Partner Trustworthy AI, Strategy Risk & Transactions

Elea leverages over two decades of advanced analytics expertise to shape ethical, legally sound, and technically rigorous AI governance strategies for major institutions.

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M_109667_7dd4a3cbeb.jpg
Keynote

Mark Visser

Big wave surfer, author, keynote speaker, mindset coach and founder of The Ocean Warrior

At FWD›››FEST 25, Mark will ignite your entrepreneurial spirit with his keynote on DAY TWO, Riding the Wave, sharing actionable insights to tackle challenges and seize opportunities.

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Flynn_Daniel_web_NEW_2024_0129b687d2.jpg
Featured

Daniel Flynn

ThankyouSocial Entrepreneur | Co-Founder

Daniel Flynn is one of Australia’s most compelling social entrepreneurs, known for transforming bold ideas into powerful movements.

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Ivan_Carl_Engelbrecht_6f96e5784a.jpg
Featured

Ivan Carl Engelbrecht

Leonardo.aiHead of Product and Design

Ivan thrives on solving challenging problems, is always looking to learn more and pushing boundaries through collaboration.

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LGTCRESTHS_3821_002_097901e28b.jpg
Featured

Kevin Wan Lum

LGT CrestoneDeputy Chief Investment Officer

Kevin has more than 25 years of financial markets and investment management experience in Australia and overseas.

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IMG_1297_Mark_Woodland_3a4d7cdf69.JPG
Featured

Mark Woodland

KismetFounder & CEO

Mark has built and scaled multiple purpose-driven companies, combining technology, empathy, and relentless execution.

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Peter_Deans_Headshot_a1d20e20cc.jpg
Featured

Peter Deans

52 Risks and GōruCreator & Founder

Peter is the visionary Creator & Founder of Gōru and 52 Risks®, principal of Notwithoutrisk Consulting, and a trusted advisor to fintechs and start-ups companies.

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Rob_Rand_Headshot_266a7905f0.jpeg
Featured

Rob Rand

KnobbyFounder and CEO

A seasoned expert in subscription business models, Rob specialises in turning customer transactions into long-term relationships.

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Sam_Bala_headshot_3_e6a022903c.jpg
Featured

Sam Bala

NewStorePrincipal, Omnichannel Architecture

Sam Bala is a retail innovator and entrepreneur who has spent his career defining what good looks like—from the ground up.

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Alex_Knight_Headshot_alt_83f05051d7.jpg

Alex Knight

AdvancedManaging Director

Helping innovative founders turn R&D into a growth engine.

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Alexander_Cohen_Headshot_d42031cac2.jpg

Alexander Cohen

Scope&Go AI AgencyFounder

Alexander specialises in bridging technical and non-technical environments to create impactful solutions.

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1665356303607_a061201e8b.jpg

Bryton Wishart

Cured ComplianceFounder

Bryton is a proud entrepreneur and technology enthusiast with an obsession for learning. Bryton is on the Silicon Coast Board.

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Chad_profile_Bookipi_9fbe0706ef.png

Chad Hardy

BookipiChief Operations Officer

Experienced Founder with a demonstrated history of working in the renewables and technology industry.

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Chris_Le_Serve_567e634012.png

Chris Le Serve

Sunshine Coast CouncilHead of Economic Development

Chris has extensive commercial and transaction experience in both the private and public sector throughout a range of geographies and industries.

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LBPH_078_CB_CORP_es_CROPPED_2_7b3455247c.jpg

Cliff Benns

Purpose Driven Business Coaching Founder

Cliff Benns is a 5x founder turned purpose driven business coach who built and exited several multimillion dollar ventures in mining, climate tech, manufacturing, and waste & recycling.

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CJ_95d73f9fc0.jpg

Craig ‘CJ’ Josic

Co- FounderSilicon Coast

Craig Josic aka CJ is epitomises the essence of a visionary leader and community builder. With over a decade of unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

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Dave_Burns_52d596b7d7.png

Dave Burns

Sunshine Coast CouncilChief Information Officer

Chief Information Officer, Sunshine Coast Council

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David_Neal_4f81ce202c.JPG

David Neal

Eighth Mile ConsultingCEO

David is a highly energetic, charismatic, and committed leader that takes pride in inspiring others to reach their full potential and allowing organisations to find their competitive edge.

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Karen_Sutherland_a4439d325c.jpg

Dr Karen Sutherland

University of the Sunshine CoastSenior Lecturer in Public Relations

Dr Karen Sutherland, AI Stream Host | Senior Lecturer, Public Relations | Director, Dharana Digital.

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Frank_Dinneen_6ca47a5806.jpg

Frank Dinneen

Queensland Government, Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family BusinessSmall Business Procurement Advisor – Q - 2032 Games, Small and Family Business Division

Frank’s career has been focussed on addressing social and economic issues, through roles within government, community, and business.

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Jason_Garland_58f0f9f297.jpeg

Jason Garland

Sunshine Coast Tech Industry Alliance (SCTechIA)Chair

As Chair of Sunshine Coast Tech Industry Alliance and the Sunshine Coast Business Council, alongside his own technology firm Secure Access, Jason provides connection to the digital economy.

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Kathryn_Giudes_9646ec1dd4.jpeg

Kathryn Giudes

macroDATA Digital SolutionsManaging Director

Chair of Silicon Coast - Kathryn Giudes is a leader dedicated to creating successful organisations through strategic conversations and problem-solving.

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Katie_Healy_b93d6ffd62.png

Katie Healy

Sunshine Coast HealthSenior Director Strategy and Planning

Senior Director Strategy and Planning, Sunshine Coast Health

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Kelly_Lavery_Bio_shot_d9221a05e7.png

Kelly Lavery

StrucketInventor - CEO

Strucket’s seemingly overnight success was based on three years of research, design, prototype, tooling, testing, grant applications, sourcing funding, sleepless nights.

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Kerry Neill

TriballinkDirector

Kerry has worked within community services, health, training and education, creating and delivering Indigenous education experiences and lessons

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Lachie_Smart6_a250a72578.jpg

Lachie Smart

Smartline MedicalCEO

Lachie Smart speaks with authority on the leadership required to bridge generational gaps, solve pain points and boost team engagement.

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headshot_96505c29d2.jpg

Laura Ashmole

River City LabsHead of Growth

Laura believes the success of any business is determined by its ability to innovate, harness the potential of its people and be utterly obsessed with its customers.

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Marc_Watson_88d4f13619.jpeg

Marc Watson

UnitywaterHead of Procurement

Marc has been leading Procurement and Supply Chain teams in top ASX listed companies and Government organisations for over 20 years

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M_Rose1_bio_photo_083cf96f91.jpg

Matthew Rose

Queensland Government, Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family BusinessManager, Industry Engagement, ICT Category Management and Sourcing

Manager, Industry Engagement, ICT Category Management and Sourcing, Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business, Queensland Government

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Mayor_Rosanna_Natoli_1ca40777db.jpg

Mayor Rosanna Natoli

Sunshine Coast CouncilMayor

Mayor Natoli will lead the Sunshine Coast community to a bright future while protecting the lifestyle we love.

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Michelle_Reeves_Headshot_AUS_1c9d882633.png

Michelle Reeves

Zipline AIFounder and CEO

An international executive and entrepreneur, Michelle has led innovation strategies for brands across fashion, sports, entertainment, and emerging tech.

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Naomi_Elliott_2_e7649ef1c3.jpg

Naomi Elliott

Suncoast BiochemCo-Founder

Naomi's company Suncoast Biochem delivers sustainable, traceable ingredients through a B2B model that includes bulk supply, private label services, and strategic partnerships.

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Nicole_Nixon_9b50afed37.png

Nicole Nixon

Five FacesCEO

Nicole brings a rare blend of empathy and operational discipline, shaped by diverse roles in manufacturing, consulting, and entertainment.

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Oscar_lloyd_Headshot_735f86f3de.jpg

Oscar Lloyd

ProxiTechFounder

Oscar develops AI and robotics applications for manufacturing and service industries while offering educational services in collaboration with various organisations.

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Headshot_6a216df608.jpg

Richard Burrows

Performance Breathing AustraliaDirector

As an elite performance coach, Rich centres his approach on the mastery of the breath.

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thumbnail_Rob_Neely_Profile_photo_cropped_909cc78c88.png

Rob Neely

Securely GroupFounder and Director

Entrepreneur, Fintech Innovator, and Community Leader who is recognised globally for his groundbreaking work in digital identity, banking, and cybersecurity.

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1535751787269_eb9501087a.jpg

Rob Steffler

DeLorean ProjectFounder/Facilitator

Rob is an experienced educator that is passionate about innovation and disruption to Education and believing for radical change to the system.

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Room_Readi_1_de61d8a4f9.jpg

RoomReadi

RoomReadiCo-Founders

RoomReadi is a youth-led retail tech startup that’s rethinking how retail spaces connect with customers.

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Roz_White_Headshot_d923ce35c3.jpg

Roz White

White's IGACo-owner

Roz White is an award-winning business leader with over 32 years’ experience, a charity volunteer and leading advocate for various industry groups.

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Ryan_Hollis_LI_b1dd8d8a49.jpg

Ryan Hollis

everfocusDirector

Sustainability and ESG are not just feel good concepts—they are a proven path to growth, and Ryan has spent over 25 years showing companies exactly how to achieve it.

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Sam_Dharmapala_headshot_81e4ae188d.jpg

Sam Dharmapala

Transform EngineFounder and CEO

Sam is the Founder and CEO of Transform Engine, an outsourcing company based in the Philippines and Nepal that employs survivors of slavery in technology-centric jobs.

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1660874742979_9d263a992a.jpg

Sarah Morgan

RSB CapitalVice President, Business Development

CEO | Entrepreneur | Speaker | MC | Author | Panel Facilitator | Leadership Expert | Founder - Influential Leader Academy

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14_Nash_440x510px_2_5b05e1d167.jpg

Sean O'Neill

Nash CapitalManaging Director

Sean O’Neill is the Managing Director of Nash Capital, a mid-market private equity fund in Australia that manages $200m of high-net-worth client funds.

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Simon_Bush_55ad41e39e.jpg

Simon Bush

Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA)CEO

Simon is one of Australia’s most respected technology and policy business leaders.

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Susan_Toft_FWD_Fest_fd655bbca8.png

Susan Toft

The Laundry Lady Australia and New ZealandCEO

As CEO and founder of Laundry Lady and TimeBoss (an AI-driven platform powering The Laundry Lady), Susan has created scalable solutions for industries like aged care, cleaning services, and pet grooming.

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1744591632595_c7621233d0.jpg

Tate Donohoe

EcodiaFounder

Tate's approach to sustainability isn't just about environmental protection… it’s comprehensive, innovative, and community-driven.

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Tim_Collier_Headshotf_b001f61457.jpg

Tim Collier

Cummins & PartnersNational Head of Strategy

Tim Collier is on a mission to bring back what makes advertising great: simple, entertaining, and memorable ideas that drive real business results.

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Thomas_Pollock_head_shot_29b443685f.jpg

Tom Pollock

Gov ReadyManaging Director

Thomas brings over two decades of expertise in winning government business for the SME sector.

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Tracy_Sheen_a1bf2a562c.jpg

Tracy Sheen

The Digital GuideAI Speaker and Consultant

As founder of The Digital Guide and Unusual Comms, Tracy specialises in implementing AI responsibly while balancing innovation and risk.

7 - 9 MAY 2025 Sunshine Coast

Acknowledgement of Country

Silicon Coast and partners pays our deepest respect to the Traditional Custodians of this country; the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples of the coastal plains and hinterlands of the Sunshine Coast, as we honor them as the original storytellers, innovators, and custodians of this land, embracing their wisdom to innovate while respecting the sacred ground on which it takes place.

© 2022 - 2025 FWD›››FEST | SILICONCOAST. All Rights Reserved.

Version 1.2.2

Image credits: Barry John Alsop

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