For 10 years we have been realising our vision to start, build and grow NZ Businesses with Attitude right here in Dunedin. With a history of doing just that for over 480 individual Clients, there are more than a few people to thank.
Firstly though is an acknowledgement of our family support over this enormous journey - Bevan and Lorraine, John and Jan and sister Kerry - thank you for everything. And the two mini mes, Tayla Jane Melody and Mason James. Whom are 9 and 11…..add in the 10 year old Firebrand and everyone can understand the challenge we set upon!
Thank you as well to the BNZ, Findex for our strategic alignment and new Advisory Board by way of Shaun McNamara and Blair Impey, Burke Law for Legal and Dunedin Print as our supreme suppliers and most especially Mr Steve Rogan for always going above and beyond!
There is always a beginning story to business and ours is the Otago University - Microbiology and Immunology Department - our first “real” paying client. Thank you, John Crowley, for taking a gamble on the young punks Tom, Alan, Paul and Bex - you opened so many doors.
To all our clients you have become friends, partners, mentors and today hold an important place in the Firebrand story: a very special thank you to: Trade Tools, the Ministry of Social Development (our YES Programme partners on the recently recognised International Award Winning youth platform), Get Home Safe and Fiordland Lobster.
Special mention to some of our community hero’s we have walked alongside of too; Otago Community Hospice, FoodShare, Sinclair Wetlands, Audacious, Dunedin Marathon, Startup Weekend, Wild Dunedin, Malcam Trust and the Fringe Festival.
Dunedin is our home, we implore you as business leaders to support local, ensure local industry can continue to offer career opportunities to all but in particular our youth - making a place for your rangatahi to come home too.
Globalisation only has to impact us if you allow it, we have everything we need right here - our city is booming and we all play a role in maintaining that. Firebrand are 100% committed to local employment, collaborations and suppliers - there will be no outsourcing while Paul and I are the leaders of what we believe is an integral part of the Dunedin Story.
Hope you were there and if not, don't miss the next celebration - we sure know how to put on a party!
❤