For-purpose business leader recognised

The CEO of a not-for-profit housing and support service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people has been recognised as a Telstra Australian Business Women’s Award winner.  

Dushyanthi Thangiah from Yumba-Meta Housing Association Limited (YMHAL) was named winner of the 2019 Telstra Australian Business Women’s For-purpose and Social Enterprise Award on Thursday.

Thangiah has worked for YMHAL since 1995, helping to provide suitable accommodation for the growing Indigenous population of the Townsville region.

During her time at the organisation, she has seen YMHAL grow five-fold in revenue, staffing and operations, making it an important part of the sector.

She said during her award speech that she was shocked and humbled by the award.

“I will continue to advocate towards better policies and sustainable programs [that help] close this gap of disparity,” Thangiah said.

“We believe that solutions can be best [achieved] when community and businesses work together. Thank you for honouring the work we do. And thank you for the opportunity to showcase this wonderful organisation.”

Alex Badenoch, Telstra’s group executive of transformation and people, congratulated Thangiah and the other national winners, labelling them some of Australia’s most inspiring leaders that paved the way for future generations.

“This year’s finalists represent a diverse range of industries and backgrounds, and the judges were particularly impressed with their unwavering focus and determination to pursue their passions and achieve success in their own way,” Badenoch said.

The Telstra Australian Business Women’s Awards aim to shine a light on women who have challenged the status quo, done things their own way, and achieved success in business.

The full list of winners can be seen here.