October is Indigenous Business Month, a month-long celebration showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses and recognising their innovation, excellence, economic independence and self-determination.
The 2026 theme, ‘Local and Connected,’ brings the focus back to where business begins: on Country, in community and through the relationships that connect people to place. It celebrates Indigenous businesses creating opportunities, preserving culture and making a difference in their communities.
This theme comes to life through the story of Tanya Karpany, a proud Ngarrindjeri woman and founder of Mumeruki Ruwi, who recently joined Claudia Fusca from Sarina Russo Entrepreneurs on The Entrepreneurs Launchpad podcast to share her journey as a Self-Employment Assistance participant. For Tanya, floristry is about much more than creating beautiful arrangements. Her work is grounded in her Ngarrindjeri cultural heritage, connection to Country and passion for connecting people with the environment around them. Through Mumeruki Ruwi, flowers become powerful symbols of life, beauty and culture. In Ngarrindjeri language, Mumeruki means ‘flowers of the bulrush’, while Ruwi means ‘land/Country’. The name reflects Tanya’s connection to family and Country.
Tanya’s father is from Raukkan and her mother is from the Coorong. Growing up, she spent time with family close to Country, developing an appreciation and love for the land that continues to influence her work today. With a background in teaching, Tanya now brings together her experience, creativity and cultural knowledge through floristry, creating work that is both beautiful and culturally meaningful.
Tanya’s journey reflects the spirit of ‘Local and Connected’, demonstrating how culture, Country, community and entrepreneurship can come together through business.
Throughout Indigenous Business Month, the Sarina Russo Group is proud to highlight First Nations entrepreneurs and share the stories and impact they are creating through business.
Listen to Tanya’s conversation with Claudia on The Entrepreneurs Launchpad and discover the inspiration behind Mumeruki Ruwi.
Sources:
indigenousbusinessmonth.com.au
mumerukiruwiflorist.com.au
