Brisbane Indigenous Media Association Ltd receives technology boost from DXC Technology

Supply Nation member DXC Technology continues its community technology enablement initiatives, donating 15 refurbished Dell laptops to upgrade the technology quotient of registered charity, Brisbane Indigenous Media Association Ltd.

The Association has been operating out of Brisbane on 98.9FM as an essential service for the whole of the community since 1991. It is well known as a voice for First Nations peoples, and for its unique blend of country and Indigenous music.

“We’ve been informing and connecting the community for more than twenty years,” said CEO Jyi Lawton. “During this difficult COVID period, we’ve continued this important work, but our existing laptop fleet was nearly ten years old, which makes it a challenge, as many of our team had to work remotely.” Of the donation he stated, “We are extremely grateful to DXC Technology for this upgrade. These refurbished laptops will make it easier for us strengthen the communication of First Nations voices, to educate and inform local, rural and remote First Nations peoples and communities.” Jyi also gave a shout out to 100% Aboriginal owned and run ICT business, Willyama Services, for introducing them to DXC.

Local DXC Technology representative and Senior IT Security Consultant, Neil Curtis, was on site to make the presentation, “We are really pleased to be able to help our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander radio station to support the community.”

During 98.9FM’s drive program later the same day, radio announcer Jharal Yow Yeh and Tari Olive had a yarn with DXC Indigenous Program Lead, Stuart Meadley, who said, “We believe in self-determination for Indigenous Australians, we acknowledge and value their unique connection with the land, and the perspectives they can offer us all. This initiative isn’t just about laptops. We are looking to understand the wider needs of communities. This is part of a process of building ongoing relationships. We have some exciting ideas we are developing together with communities and business partners.”

Also on radio was Simon O’Toole, key advisor for DXC’s Indigenous Program and Reconciliation Action Plan. “As technologists, we are passionate about the power technology has to provide real social impact. With my Eualayai/ Gammillaroi background, I bring a focus on technology that will enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to learn and work, locally in their communities.”

This is the second tranche of DXC’s Community Technology Enablement initiative; the first being at Yass High School, in rural NSW, in May this year; a combined effort of DXC, Commonwealth Bank of Australia’s Indigenous Business Banking team, and Willyama Services.

DXC acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and to their elders, past, present and emerging.

For more details on DXC’s Program, please email firstnationsaus@dxc.com.