Our Approach
At Winya Indigenous Commercial Furniture, our approach is more than just a business model; it's a movement that bridges respect, sustainability, and empowerment. Established in 2015, Winya was founded by Debbie Barwick and a group of industry professionals committed to creating meaningful employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians and celebrating Indigenous culture through design.
The name Winya, meaning "to sit now" in Wiradjuri dialect, perfectly encapsulates our mission: to provide spaces where culture, community, and conscious design converge.
From the outset, we’ve remained a majority Indigenous-owned and controlled business, operating with a profit-for-purpose model and recognised as a leader in sustainability and social impact. Our growth is driven by our commitment to five guiding pillars - Indigenous Engagement, Sustainability Practices, Product Design & Development, Project Management, and Product Range - which shape everything we do. These pillars represent not just the work we deliver, but the way we engage with our community, the environment, and each other.