Australian tea and coffee brand Blak Brews has been recognised at the 2025 National NAIDOC Awards.
The First Nations-owned business, founded by husband-and-wife duo Troy and Cerisa Benjamin, won the Innovation Award.
Blak Brews has been crafting blends using ethically sourced native ingredients since 2023.
“This Innovation Award isn’t just about an idea – it's about building something that all Australians can call their own,” Troy Benjamin said.
“I truly see Blak Brews as a way we can pierce through the negative stereotypes that get put on us and get all Australians to be proud of something that respects this land's true deep, rich and loving history.
“Australians have been doing it around the kettle for 230 years. But we’ve been doing it around the fire for 60,000 years.”
Earlier this year, Blak Brews won $250,000 on Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars, which showcases entrepreneurs wanting to break into the food and beverage industry.
The award also included a year-long mentorship from the celebrity chef, which has helped the Melbourne-based company grow from strength to strength.
“We’re fast becoming one of the most sought-after tea brands in the food and beverage space, proudly breaking old stereotypes and sparking a movement,” Benjamins said.
“Our mission? Work with good people, be good people and create something all Australians can be proud to share with the world.”
Ten Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were recognised for their work at a ceremony in Perth on Saturday.
Michael Long received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his leadership to address racism within the AFL.
Christine Anu, Professor Eddie Cubillo and Danielle Ponter also took home awards for their achievements.
The minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy congratulated this year’s winners.
“This year’s NAIDOC celebrations mark an incredible achievement – 50 years of celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and culture through a week of activities,” she said.
“There is no better way to recognise the strength, vision and enduring legacy of past generations than by celebrating the achievements of exceptional individuals at the NAIDOC Awards.
“I congratulate the finalists and winners for their remarkable achievements and for exemplifying the true essence of NAIDOC Week.”
This year’s NAIDOC Week theme is The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy.
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