Paint Your Own Future

Start your own business

We believe in the power of business to create positive change in the world.

Over the course of six weeks, we will work closely with you to tackle a problem that matters to you. There’s no need to bring a business idea—we’re after problem statements you care deeply about. Our program is not outcome-focused, but rather on celebrating every stage of your personal and professional growth.

We believe learning should unfold naturally, and content should step out of the way of getting things done.

Action trumps theory, and our program philosophy follows a simple cycle:

  • Act

  • Learn

  • Adapt

  • Repeat

Experienced entrepreneurs will work one-on-one with you throughout the program, alongside engaging in Mob Pods with other First Nation founders. Each participant will receive $1,000 as part of their entry, with additional cash and other prizes awarded at the close of the program.

Join Ochre ONE

Our six-week program is delivered online, except for two in-person events held in Naarm (Melbourne CBD) that book-end the Ochre experience.

For Ochre ONE, the first in-person event, Your First Day, will take place at 5:30pm on Wednesday 6 November. The second in-person event, Your Last Day, will be held at 5:30pm on Wednesday 11 December.

These two in-person gatherings are designed to bring you together, to connect, to share your experiences, and to reflect on the journey that has led you here.

Apply

Applications close 11:59pm AEST 18 October 2024.

Program Leaders

  • Dr Kyle Turner

    DIRECTOR

    Dr Kyle Turner is originally from Dubbo in rural New South Wales, his family’s Wiradjuri country, and now resides in Naarm (Melbourne). In 2019, Kyle founded Pearlii, a for-profit social enterprise that uses world-first AI technology to scan photos of teeth and gums for dental problems, bringing free dental check-ups and free oral health education to the world.

    Before then, Kyle completed his PhD in Epidemiology at the University of Oxford and published widely on the burden of chronic diseases.


    LinkedIn

  • Kayla Cartledge

    DEPUTY DIRECTOR

    Kayla is a proud Gurindji woman, born on Larrakia land and now living on Bunurong/Boon Wurrong land. Kayla is deeply passionate about human rights issues, reconciliation and justice for minority groups, with a particular focus on her First Nations aunties, uncles, brothers, and sisters.

    She founded Our Songlines to create a safe space where people can share their stories, ask questions, and support First Nations businesses.


    LinkedIn

Wanna yarn?

If you have any questions about Ochre, or need support with your application, please feel free to reach out to us.