Supply Nation Connect 2018

On October 22 and 23, six members of the IPS team travelled to Sydney to attend Supply Nation Connect 2018, for two huge days including a knowledge forum, tradeshow, and a gala dinner that celebrated and announced the supplier diversity award winners.

IPS Director Kristal Kinsela kicked off the event participating in a panel discussion titled Against the Odds: Black, female and successful, with Jocelyn King and Dale Chapman, to explore the challenges and successes of being a black woman in business, and share key advice.

The IPS team then spent a busy day walking and talking the floor at the Supply Nation Connect Tradeshow, connecting with new businesses and catching up with old friends. The IPS booth also enjoyed a visit from Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion.

“It was fantastic to see the growth of the Tradeshow yet again, meet new businesses, and of course to see and catch up with all my amazing business friends,” Kristal said.

After a busy day at the tradeshow, Scott, Kristal, Damien, Katina, Dr Katie and Simone were not finished – it was straight off to get glammed up for the gala award night, at Supply Nation’s glittering ceremony at The Star Casino, Pyrmont in Sydney, where IPS was a finalist for a major award.

All of the hard work put in by the IPS Team was recognised during the awards night, as IPS were announced as the Supply Nation Certified Supplier of the Year.

The Certified Supplier of the Year Award, sponsored by Telstra, recognises a Certified Supplier that has driven significant growth in their business and demonstrated ongoing engagement with Supply Nation and its members. The award winner is required to have demonstrated significant Supplier Diversity leadership, advocacy and engagements, as well as organisational growth.

IPS directors Katina, Kristal and Damien proudly received the award.

“We are incredibly honoured to have received this award,” Katina said. “We are passionate about our work in helping drive supplier diversity across Australia, and humbled to have been recognised in this way.”

Kristal paid tribute to staff and clients who played a significant part in the growth of IPS during the past three years.

“I’m so proud of this achievement. All the hard work, all the tears, the laughs and experiences - we are so proud of our achievements and the journey so far. I’m so fortunate to have the most amazing business partners and loyal team. Thank you to all our valued clients, strategic partners, and supporters,” Kristal said.

“But most importantly thank you to our husbands, wives, partners, kids and extended families, because without your support we wouldn’t be here.”