Baidam Solutions, Google partners for cybersecurity diversity

Brisbane-based Baidam Solutions, an First Nations cybersecurity and information consultancy, has joined forces with Google in a partnership aimed at encouraging underrepresented communities to explore careers in cybersecurity. Known for its established reputation, Indigenous ownership, and a diverse clientele including government departments, not-for-profits, and large-scale enterprises, Baidam Solutions entered the scene in 2018 under founders Jack Reis and Phillip Jenkinson.

This new collaboration will allow the award-winning company to showcase its business blueprint and philanthropic impacts through a series of local and international security conferences conducted alongside Google. In essence, it seeks to foster diverse participation, enabling individuals from all backgrounds and experiences to envisage a career path within the cybersecurity sector.

Expressing great enthusiasm about the partnership, Phillip Jenkinson, Co-founder and CEO of Baidam Solutions, said “Jack and I are deeply excited about our partnership with Google; it will give global recognition to our First Nations initiatives”. He cited the pioneering co-constructed security operations centre (SOC) as an exemplar of making a material difference to the future of Indigenous peoples. “Through sharing the blueprint of our business approach at scale, we have a unique opportunity to be a role model for First Nations communities all over the world. We hope to make it easier and less daunting for other businesses to follow in our footsteps,” added Jenkinson.

Jack Reis, Co-founder and Group CEO of Baidam Solutions, also expressed appreciation for Google's partnership. “Being given the opportunity to share our business blueprint shows Google's depth of understanding and appreciation of what it means to be an Indigenous-owned business." Reis emphasised the partnership's potential to amplify their message not only within Australia but across the globe. “If we can influence even one other business to adopt our model, we’ve helped to improve the world - it’s a job well done,” Reis said.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Patty Gilchrist, from Google APAC Partnerships, acknowledged the inspiring work of Baidam Solutions. She commented that “This partnership will further build on their already impactful work in promoting clear pathways into cybersecurity for people from all backgrounds,” and considered it an opportunity for Baidam to extend its influence beyond Australia.

The partnership aligns with Google's Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan, announced in December 2022, that promotes a strong and inclusive digital future for all Australians. Baidam Solutions' upcoming initiatives include sponsorship and presentations at several highly esteemed industry events such as AusCERT2024 – Pay It Forward, Supply Nation Connect 2024, and AISA Cybercon.

The company has a commendable track record with over 50% of profits invested into First Nations initiatives through the Baidam Initiative. It has so far spent more than $1.7M on Indigenous salaries and $500,000 on procurement through Indigenous businesses and contractors. They have also established three perpetual university scholarships demonstrating their commitment to creating opportunities for indigenous youth.