Meet the UNSW First Nations Business Society's Executive Leadership Team

Established in 2022, the UNSW First Nations Business Society is dedicated to empowering First Nations students to thrive at UNSW Business School, contributing to the growth of the Indigenous Business sector in collaboration with industry and government partners, and the wider community.

UNSW First Nations Business Society is pioneering community-led initiatives within business. With over 50 members (and growing) our students range in experience from first-year undergraduate students, to working professionals with decades of experience to successful entrepreneurs. The society works with more than 10 industry partners to build on the many different pathways for its members to become the future business leaders they aspire to be.

The society offers employment pathways, mentor programs, skills building through masterclasses, personal brand building, and community events. The society is open to all UNSW Indigenous Business school students across all degree pathways and alumni.

The UNSW Business School EDI is honoured to introduce you to one of our 2024 UNSW First Nations Business Society's Executive Leadership Team Members: Harrison Stewart, a proud Yuin man, UNSW Doctor of Law, specialising in First Nations legal issues and advocacy, AGSM MBAX 2023, EDI & Strategy Director of UNSW First Nations Business Society.

Dream career or industry to work at: to work in is either sports and gaming, where I aspire to be a chief executive in either technology or risk and supporting First Nations communities.

Why did you choose to study a Business Degree? And what led you to study at UNSW?

Although I am currently pursuing a Juris Doctor, I hold an MBA specialising in Technology Management from AGSM @ UNSW Business School. My background in business has provided me with a strong foundation for understanding systemic issues and creating impactful solutions. I chose to study at UNSW due to its commitment to diversity and excellence in education, as well as its robust support for First Nations students.

How has your experience helped you make a positive impact in your degree, career and/or community?

My experience in retail banking and financial institutions has equipped me with critical skills in strategic planning and community engagement. This has allowed me to mentor other First Nations students and advocate for inclusive policies within my community and the workplace.

How has UNSW prepared you to lead in the workplace and community once you graduate?

UNSW has provided me with numerous opportunities to develop leadership skills through its diverse programs and supportive network. The university’s focus on equity and inclusion has further prepared me to lead initiatives that drive positive change for First Nations Australians.

What inspired you to join the UNSW First Nations Business Society? Tell us a bit about your Executive role.

As a Yuin man passionate about advancing First Nations’ rights, joining the UNSW First Nations Business Society was a natural fit. In my role as the Director of Strategy and EDI, I am dedicated to creating events and initiatives that promote cultural awareness and support for Indigenous students within the Business School.

What initiatives or activities do you run? How is this making a positive impact on Business School Indigenous Students?

I help connect the society with external opportunities through my personal connections in the industry and guide the strategy of the society to grow. These initiatives foster a sense of community, enhance professional development, and promote a greater understanding of First Nations cultures within the business school.

How is UNSW Business School helping to improve Indigenous representation within the business sector? And how is the society helping to improve this?

The UNSW Business School is committed to improving Indigenous representation by providing scholarships, mentorship programs, and dedicated support services for First Nations students. The UNSW First Nations Business Society complements these efforts by advocating for inclusive policies and creating platforms for Indigenous voices to be heard within the business sector.

UNSW Business School strives to cultivate a welcoming environment that supports all Indigenous business students - from their first enquiry to graduation and beyond.

We provide ongoing advocacy and support for Indigenous business students and graduates. We support students to achieve their best throughout their studies and academic, career mentoring and industry opportunities in Australia and overseas.

Find out more about the UNSW First Nations Business Society. 

Find out more about UNSW Business School's Indigenous Engagement.