READY FOR BUSINESS: Koby Drake and Rory Shaw hope to foster understanding of different cultures. PICTURE: KATE HEALY
Indigenous youth Koby Drake and Rory Shaw are sowing the seeds of a better future with the opening of their new business Ebony Dreaming in Ballan tomorrow.
Ballarat-born Mr Drake, 23, said the spiritual and cultural shop, which is the first indigenous business in Ballan, was aiming to foster understanding of different cultures.
“Our main goal is to bring the community together,” Mr Drake said.
“We want to promote understanding and awareness of different cultures as we believe it is the key to ending racism and discrimination.”
Named in honour of Mr Shaw’s sister, who died of encephalitis at the age of six, the business will also include a free library.
“Bon Bon Borrowing is for people to dabble in books of culture and spiritual healing to help yourself without drugs, alcohol or gambling,” Mr Drake said.
“We are also in a process of creating a reading garden with a discussion table where people can meet, talk and learn from one other.”
Tomorrow’s opening, which includes live entertainment and a sausage sizzle, will raise funds for Brain Research Australia.
Ebony Dreaming opens tomorrow from 10.30am at 150-152 Inglis Street, Ballan.
For information call 0448 287 492.
