To celebrate the launch, Amgen Australia staff gathered at an event hosted by the company’s RAP Working Group, where the significance of this moment was further enhanced by the presence and participation of members of the local community.
Local Aboriginal Elder, Uncle Laurie Bimson, performed a traditional Smoking Ceremony at Wynyard Park that was followed by an event at Amgen’s Sydney office, on Gadigal Country, where fellow Elder, Uncle Neil Evers delivered a moving Welcome to Country.
Amgen’s RAP partner Wakka Wakka woman Brooke Prentis delivered an inspiring keynote speech and shared her perspective about the Amgen journey that has culminated in the official launch of the RAP.
“Reconciliation is all about a relationship based on listening, learning and taking action. These are characteristics I see in Amgen as an organisation, and I have personally experienced in working with Amgen. Reconciliation is not new to Amgen and so I am excited for the company to be taking the step to formalise their Reconciliation journey with this RAP,” she said.
Reflecting on the importance of the launch, Amgen Australia’s managing director, Gabi Mittas said, “The formal endorsement of our RAP not only symbolises Amgen’s journey towards Reconciliation but our commitment to building relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and organisations. It also aligns with our ongoing focus on diversity, inclusion and belonging both within our walls, and the wider community, as we strive to reflect the diversity of the patients we serve.”
Amgen Australia's director, Legal and company secretary Lisa Kurian, who is also chair of the affiliate's Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Committee added, “Amgen’s core mission is to serve patients and we strongly believe that diverse teams working together generate the best outcomes for patients. The Reflect RAP is the first step for Amgen in learning how our organisation can better serve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients.”
Amgen’s RAP includes the incredible artwork 'Kapi Tjukula' by Aboriginal artist and Anangu Pitjantjatjara Elder from Ernbella, Aunty Yaritji Heffernan, a two-time Wynne Prize finalist.