- Merryn is from the Western Arrernte people in Alice Springs and had a business dream she wanted to transform into reality
- Merryn uses her painting to keep her journey alive and has recently featured artwork on BFX’s Indigenous Collection as well as AFL footballs
Merryn’s stunning art is kicking goals.
In April 2021, Merryn approached APM for assistance* to start her own business. She wanted her artistic designs applied to fabrics, leaving a legacy for her children and family.
And so Apma Creations was born.
Dedicated to turning her dreams into reality, Merryn moved from her home in Alice Springs and was began establishing herself in the local Sunshine Coast area (QLD).
She voiced her concerns to Consultant Sharon Harris, as after leaving school in year eight she was worried that she would not have the capabilities to develop a strong business plan.
Sharon assisted Merryn to complete a suitable business plan and worked with her throughout her studies. The support that Sharon provided enhanced Merryn’s confidence, and she continued to encourage Merryn to work toward her goal of operating a successful business, Aboriginal owned and operated.
Merryn’s business was up and running when Connie Glover from BFX approached her in the later part of 2021.
BFX, suppliers of education and office equipment in the small town of Yandina, were on the hunt for local Aboriginal artists for the Indigenous Fabric Collection.
Merryn and Sharon jumped at the chance to have her designs printed on furniture.
Assisting Merryn to stay focused, persistent, and consistent, as well as supporting her with her ideas and encouragement to stay motivated.
Merryn was one of two artists chosen by BFX. Three of Merryn’s designs are featured in The Ninderry Range: Kwatye, Apmere and Uterne.
Her focus, her designs, and her ability to interact with people has resulted in an ongoing opportunity which may see her designs on furniture in many schools and offices.
With Merryn’s designs being showcased throughout Australia, she was given another opportunity to print her art on the Essendon Football Club’s footballs for the 2022 season.
With the help of APM and her consultant, Merryn was able to give her business the start it needed.
Sharon said, Merryn "was a dream to work with and always ahead of the game! A very inclusive and motivated individual with the bigger picture vision for herself, family and community."
She continues to engage with APM to access the assistance* she needs for self-employment to keep them updated on her achievements.
* Merryn received support to set up her own business from the NEIS program delivered by APM. Since 1 July 2022 this program is called Self-Employment Assistance.
See Merryn’s designs
- View Merryn's designs on the BFX website
- View her football design
- Keep up with Merryn’s work on Instagram - @apmacreations
Get the best start in business
Access professional mentorship, accredited training through the Self-Employment Assistance program.
As part of Workforce Australia, Self-Employment Assistance provides more support to more people, more businesses in even more places across Australia.
Self-Employment Assistance can help you:
- Workshop a business idea
- Create a business plan and develop your business skills
- Provide you with accredited training in small business*
- Connect you with business coaching from experienced and local experts in a range of industries
- Self-Employment Assistance participant in their plant business
Existing small business owners can also use Self-Employment Assistance to develop their business plan, access accredited training, undertake a business health check and access business advice sessions.
To find out more, visit apm.net.au/sea or contact the SEA team at selfemployment@apm.net.au or on 1300 006 347.