At this year’s Illawarra Indigenous Business Expo (IIBE), one of the businesses you’ll have the chance to connect with is Dhinawan Pathways, founded by the inspiring Kyarlee-Rose Clulow. The expo is all about celebrating First Nations entrepreneurship and showcasing the people and ideas shaping our communities, and Dhinawan Pathways is a perfect example of that vision in action.
Kyarlee-Rose’s journey into business started with her own healing and a deep commitment to culture, leadership, and community. Through Dhinawan Pathways, she has created a space where Aboriginal youth feel seen, heard and supported to grow strong in who they are. What began as a personal calling has evolved into a business that is lighting the way for the next generation of leaders.
Rooted in her Gamilaraay and Awabakal culture, Kyarlee-Rose builds every workshop, mentoring session, and community engagement on the values of connection, respect, and storytelling. For her, it’s not just about running programs, it’s about creating safe spaces where young mob can step into their power, connect with culture, and imagine new possibilities for themselves and their futures.
Visitors to the IIBE will have the chance to meet Kyarlee-Rose in person, hear about her journey, and learn more about the impact Dhinawan Pathways is already making across schools and communities. Ahead of the expo, I sat down with her to talk about where it all began, the moments that inspire her most, and the exciting plans she has for the future.
What’s the story behind your business?
My business began from my own healing journey and my passion for culture, leadership and community. I wanted to create a space where Aboriginal youth feel seen, heard, and strong in who they are. That’s how Dhinawan Pathways was born.
How does your culture or community show up in your business?
My Gamilaraay and Awabakal culture shows up in everything I do – from the way I deliver workshops, to the values I lead with. It’s about connection, respect, storytelling, and creating safe spaces for mob to thrive.
What do you love most about the work you do?
I love seeing the shift in young people when they begin to believe in themselves and connect with their culture. Those lightbulb moments are what keep me going.
Can you tell us about a moment where your business made you feel proud, connected, or inspired?
A moment that made me really proud was winning the Young Achiever of the Year award and having my business spotlighted in the media. It reminded me that the work I’m doing is being seen and making an impact.
What are your hopes or plans for the future of your business?
I hope to expand Dhinawan Pathways into more schools and communities across the area, continue mentoring our young mob, and grow a team of strong First Nations facilitators to lead with me.
The Illawarra Flame is a proud supporter of the 2025 Illawarra Indigenous Business Expo, which will be held from 11am-2pm on Friday, October 31 at the Novotel Wollongong Northbeach.
