Having played an instrumental role in Manapan’s set-up and as an ongoing supporter as it continues to evolve, we’re thrilled that the traditional custodians of Arnhem Land, the Yolngu people, own and operate what is a successful, self-sufficient and self-funded enterprise.
With support by ALPA, the largest employer of Aboriginal people in Australia, Manapan provides work experience programs for the students of the local school – building on the students’ skills, talents and interests – while also bridging the gap between Indigenous and non-indigenous people as they build relationships through working together.
The Manapan Academy provides training for local people in carpentry and joinery skills, with the vision that they will combine these skills with their creative talents to enable them to graduate to the main workshop. This pathway to full-time employment doubles as a celebration of their traditional talents and contemporary skills.
The timber used to create the unique furniture is locally sourced from Gumatj, an Aboriginal Corporation in Nhulunbuy, and blended with sustainably-harvested, specialty Australian timbers.