IPS Management Consultants

Jahna Cedar - Leading IPS Strategic Growth

20/11/2023

IPS Management Consultants is excited to announce that our Executive Director Jahna Cedar is now leading IPS Strategic Growth.

If you're interested in exploring the exceptional services IPS can offer your organisation, don't hesitate to connect with Jahna for a conversation at Jahna.Cedar@ipsau.com.au

IPS is an independent certified majority Indigenous-owned organisation providing innovative and focused consulting services to meetOrganisational Capability, Business Advisory, Research, Policy & Evaluation, First Nations Advisory and Workforce Solutions needs.

We provide consulting services to state and federal government departments, Tier 1 corporates and local businesses around Australia.

Our capabilities are diverse and our people are talented, passionate, and committed to great outcomes.

Here's a snapshot of our services:

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Organisational Capability

Organisational Development
Leadership & Supervisor Development
Strategic HR / People and Culture
Diversity & Inclusion
Workforce Enabling & Activation
Organisational Culture
Change Transition & Transformation

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Research, Policy & Evaluation:

Utilising qualitative & quantitative methodologies
- specialising in mixed methods to deliver focused research & evaluation
Analytical, empirical, exploratory & historical research
Conduct case studies, short term & longitudinal research

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First Nations Advisory

Cultural Competence Suite:
- cultural safety frameworks
- training
- cultural governance
- cultural audits
Aboriginal Participation Plans
Mentoring and cultural coaching
Reconciliation Action plans creation and implementation
Community/Stakeholder engagement

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Business Advisory

One on one mentoring & advisory
Workshops and industry round tables
Net Zero capacity building
Pre Accelerators & Growth Programs
Business Planning
Strategic Planning
Feasibility Analysis
Financial Reporting & Analysis

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Workforce Solutions

Pre-Contract
Project Management
Organisational Culture
Workforce Development
Workforce Enabling and Activation
Stakeholder Engagement
Workforce Specialist

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Let us help you unlock your organisation’s full potential. Connect with our team to discuss your business needs.

IPS Celebrates its 8th Birthday!

20/11/2023

Over the past eight years, IPS has evolved from 2 co-founders in 2015 to a thriving organisation with a dedicated team of over 70 staff members.

Our diverse team includes over 25% First Nations staff, and our Executive Leadership team stands strong with a remarkable 72% of female leaders.

At the heart of our company lies a steadfast mission to improve the lives of First Nations people by creating meaningful pathways. This mission, envisioned by our Co-Founders, Damien Chalk and Katina Law, has remained unwavering since the inception of IPS.

During our recent staff retreat, we unveiled our refreshed vision - "Creating Better Futures." This vision guides the next chapter in our strategic growth. We are determined to continue our collaboration with clients across Australia, designing and delivering capability building strategies programs, providing professional advice, activating Employment Sustainability programs and researching and evaluating National and State wide project to inform Government policy. This works paves the way for a better future, not only for us, our clients and our team but also for our families, communities, and the nation at large.

Our company values - Inspire, Service, and Entrepreneurship - are the cornerstones that define our identity.

As we mark our 8th anniversary, we want to express our deep gratitude to our clients, partners, and the entire network who have joined us on this journey, and we look forward to continuing this collaborative path.

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our incredible IPS team. Their unwavering dedication has not only played a pivotal role in shaping IPS into the remarkable organisation it is today but continues to drive the outstanding work we deliver. Thank you for your exceptional commitment and contributions.

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Jahna Cedar's TED Talk - Balancing Cultures: Walking in Two Worlds

23/10/2023

Introduction
TED Talks have been a platform for sharing stories and ideas that inspire and empower people around the world. Jahna Cedar's TED Talk, "Balancing Cultures: Walking in Two Worlds," is no exception. In this thought-provoking and insightful talk, Jahna shares her journey of navigating cultural values and societal expectations, highlighting the challenges of balancing two worlds. Her story intricately weaves the Aboriginal and Western worlds, revealing the strength and resilience within. Her words resonate with authenticity, offering a powerful message of empowerment through embracing one's unique identity.

A Journey of Self-Discovery
Jahna Cedar is a Nyiyaparli/Yindjibarndi woman from the Pilbara region of Western Australia, and is recognised as a strong Indigenous community leader. Jahna’s TEDx Talk begins with a glimpse into her own life, and takes us on a journey of self-discovery, where she reflects on the importance of understanding one's ancestral background and cultural influences. Jahna's story reminds us that our heritage is not a burden but a source of strength and resilience. It is the essence of our uniqueness and the driving force behind our personal growth.

The Superpower of Identity:
One of the most compelling aspects of Jahna's talk is her exploration of identity as a superpower. In a world that often pressures individuals to conform to societal norms, Jahna's message stands out. She encourages us to view our ancestral background, cultural influence, and identity as superpowers that shape our unique paths in life. It's a message of empowerment, reminding us that our differences are our strengths, not our weaknesses.

Promoting Diversity and Understanding:
Jahna Cedar's TED Talk is not just a personal journey; it's a call to action. Her message promotes diversity and understanding. In a time where global interconnectedness is increasing, embracing and respecting our differences is more crucial than ever. Jahna's talk challenges us to celebrate diversity, whether in our personal lives or within the organisations we are a part of.

Building Better Cultures:
The closing part of Jahna's talk invites the audience to reflect on how embracing diversity and understanding can lead to better cultures, particularly in organisations. Our unique paths in life, influenced by our cultural backgrounds, can make us more open, empathetic, and understanding. It's a powerful concept – one that can transform the way businesses, institutions, and societies operate.

In summary:
Jahna Cedar's TED Talk, "Balancing Cultures: Walking in Two Worlds," leaves a lasting impact. It's a message of empowerment, self-discovery, and a call to celebrate our unique identities. Jahna's journey reminds us that we are not defined by the expectations of others but by our own journey and the rich tapestry of cultural experiences that shape our lives. As we continue to navigate a world that is becoming increasingly diverse and interconnected, her words serve as a beacon of hope, encouraging us all to embrace our unique identities and build a more understanding, diverse, and harmonious world.

Spread the word • empower your network:
We invite you to watch the full video of Jahna Cedar's TED Talk to experience the depth and power of her message. And once you've been inspired, we encourage you to share this video with your network. By spreading her message of empowerment, diversity, and understanding, we can collectively contribute to a world where differences are celebrated, and unique identities are cherished. Together, we can be the catalyst for positive change and create a more harmonious and inclusive world.

You can watch/listen to Jahna Cedar's TED Talk below:

Learn more about Jahna

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Leading the Way: IPS Management Consultants' Role in Social Excellence

18/9/2023

Congratulations to Main Roads Western Australia and the South West Gateway Alliance for their outstanding achievements at the ISC Annual Awards recently.

Held in Naarm (Melbourne), the awards recognised the social and economic outcomes that the Bunbury Outer Ring Road (BORR) project is achieving by awarding the project team the ISC award for Excellence in Social Outcomes and Excellence in Economic Outcomes.

The Infrastructure Sustainability Council (ISC), through the ISC awards, advance sustainability leadership by acknowledging exemplary practices within the infrastructure sectors across Australia and New Zealand

IPS Management Consultants is honoured to have played a crucial role in supporting these accomplishments.

Our commitment to advancing local industry capabilities and creating employment opportunities in the South West remains steadfast.

Together, we're making a significant impact on our community, and we're excited to continue working together towards future successes.

Captured: IPS Co-Founder and Executive Director Damien Chalk, accepting the ISC award for Excellence in Social Outcomes, alongside the project team.

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Navigating the Path to Inclusion: Combating Microaggressions in the Workplace

28/8/2023

Article by IPS Executive Director, Jahna Cedar

As a First Nations woman, working in a corporate environment, I am constantly asked to guide clients on how to respond to challenging situations between Western and First Nations protocols and responsibilities, but also tackling unconscious biases. A study by the Australian National University in 2022, found three out of every four people hold a racial bias against Indigenous Australians, with WA and QLD recording the highest levels of implicit bias.

For many First Nations employees, being the bridge that holds community and the organisation that we work for together, can result in burn out and job dissatisfaction. But what do our workplaces do to support, stand strong as ally’s and foster honest conversations and inclusivity? How do they create a safe space to call out poor behaviour?

In today's diverse workplaces, fostering an inclusive environment is paramount for both employee well-being and organisational success. Microaggressions, subtle and often unintentional acts that marginalise individuals based on their identities, can undermine this goal. For Indigenous individuals, experiencing microaggressions can be particularly distressing due to their historical context and ongoing struggles for equality. I firmly believe in creating workplaces where everyone feels respected and valued, to be their true authentic self.

Microaggressions are subtle, often unconscious (but not always!) , expressions of bias or prejudice that reflect discriminatory attitudes toward marginalised groups. These interactions can take various forms, including verbal, nonverbal, and environmental cues. While they may not be intended to cause harm, their cumulative effects can be detrimental to individuals' self-esteem, job satisfaction, and overall mental well-being.

Effects of Microaggressions in the Workplace
1. Undermined Confidence:
Constant exposure to microaggressions can erode an individual's self-confidence and self-worth, making it harder for them to contribute effectively to their team.
2.      Emotional Toll:
Microaggressions can lead to feelings of frustration, anger, and isolation. Over time, this emotional toll can lead to burnout and decreased job satisfaction.
3.      Reduced Productivity:
A workplace where microaggressions are prevalent might experience decreased collaboration and communication among team members, ultimately impacting productivity and innovation.
4.      Attrition:
Employees who face persistent microaggressions are more likely to consider leaving their jobs, leading to higher turnover rates and associated recruitment costs.

Strategies to Combat Microaggressions
1.      Raise Awareness:
Educate all employees about microaggressions, their impact, and the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace. Training sessions, workshops, and open discussions can help create a shared understanding. Also, celebrate diversity through events, holidays, and cultural awareness initiatives. By embracing different backgrounds, you'll create a stronger sense of community and belonging.

2.      Lead by Example:
Managers and leaders play a crucial role in setting the tone for workplace behaviour. For those that are interested, in how/why…one of my favourite resources is “The Fish rots from the head” by Bob Garratt. Leaderships commitment to addressing microaggressions and promoting inclusion will inspire others to follow suit. You can’t be what you can’t see, and we all know that internal culture and tone is set from the top. Be authentic, and demonstrate the behaviour you expect!
Also it is critical that you ensure diverse representation at all levels of your organisation, including leadership positions. Having Indigenous individuals in decision-making roles can help shape policies that actively combat microaggressions and promote inclusivity, and view actions and decisions through a different lens. When Indigenous voices are heard and respected, it contributes to a more inclusive workplace where microaggressions are less likely to occur.

3.      Establish Clear Policies:
Develop and communicate clear anti-discrimination and whistleblower policies that outline a zero tolerance for such behaviour. Ensure employees know where to report incidents and provide them with a safe space to do so. There should be no fear of job security or retribution, in calling out poor behaviour. By holding individuals accountable for their actions, you send a powerful message that discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated.

4.      Encourage Open Dialogue:
Create a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their experiences without fear of retaliation. Consider regularly scheduling diversity and inclusion forums AND cultural competency training. Remember, it is a journey, not a destination. The behaviour you’re willing to walk past, is the behaviour you’re willing to accept.

5.      Provide Resources:
Offer resources such as books, articles, and online courses that help employees learn about different cultures, perspectives, and the impact of microaggressions. By increasing understanding, you can counter harmful stereotypes and prevent well-intentioned but misguided comments.

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
- Nelson Mandela

6.      Review Hiring Practices:
Ensure that recruitment and selection processes are fair and unbiased. This includes using diverse interview panels and eliminating language or criteria that might inadvertently discriminate.

7.      Mentorship and Allyship Programs:
Establish mentorship programs that connect individuals from marginalised groups with experienced colleagues.
Implement allyship programs that encourage employees to stand up against microaggressions when they witness them. Allies can play a pivotal role in creating a supportive environment by intervening, offering support to the target, and educating their peers.

8.      Feedback and Accountability:
Encourage employees to provide feedback on the workplace environment and ensure that managers address concerns promptly. Hold individuals accountable for their behaviour, regardless of their position within the organisation.
Regularly check in with employees to gauge their experiences and feelings within the workplace. Anonymous surveys or confidential channels can provide insights into any ongoing issues related to microaggressions. This data can guide targeted interventions and adjustments to your strategy.

Combatting microaggressions in the workplace requires commitment, education, and an ongoing effort to promote inclusion. By recognising the impact of these subtle biases and taking meaningful steps to address them, organisations can create a healthier and more productive environment where all employees can thrive. Remember, the journey toward eliminating microaggressions begins with a single step, but the positive impact can be immeasurable.

Jahna Cedar

IPS Executive Director

Jahna Cedar is a Nyiyaparli/Yindjibarndi woman from the Pilbara region of Western Australia, and is recognised as a strong Indigenous community leader. Jahna has worked for over 18 years advocating for equal rights and reconciliation of Indigenous people, and has represented Indigenous Australia at the United Nations in New York, on three occasions.

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Jahna Cedar - Leading IPS Strategic Growth

Connect with IPS

IPS Celebrates its 8th Birthday!

Jahna Cedar's TED Talk - Balancing Cultures: Walking in Two Worlds

Leading the Way: IPS Management Consultants' Role in Social Excellence

Navigating the Path to Inclusion: Combating Microaggressions in the Workplace

Jahna Cedar

About IPS

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