About pepperedBLACK®

pepperedBLACK® is an Aboriginal owned and operated company based in Alice Springs. Behind the pepperedBLACK® concept is Des Rogers, a Southern Arrernte man who has been in business in Central Australia since 1994, during which time he has established a track record for managing successful enterprise and providing training and employment opportunities for young Indigenous people. Having held positions on the boards of many prominent organisations and as an experienced public speaker, Des has bought his extensive knowledge and expertise to pepperedBLACK®. He is committed to sharing his commercial and life experience with Aboriginal people and acting as a link between Government, business and Aboriginal Communities. To find out more about the experience of Des Rogers view his resume.

Beginnings

Established in 2005, the company’s focus is on utilising Aboriginal cultural knowledge to create new and improved business models that will benefit the whole community. Initially concentrating on developing an Indigenous hospitality and cuisine business model, the business continued to expand and morph with the establishment of pepperedBLACK® Security in 2006. The security arm of pepperedBLACK® was operated in conjunction with mentoring and consultation services that helped bridge the gap of understanding between Indigenous people, business and government.

pepperedBLACK® Security

pepperedBLACK® Security quickly achieved the status of an accountable and reputable partner in the security industry. Success was realised in employing 28 Aboriginal people with increased retention rates, servicing government contracts, major events and VIP functions all via an ethos of utilising Aboriginal resources to problem solve.

pepperedBLACK® Security offered a unique service to private industry, government and community based organisations, in cultural awareness and information about language, lore, customs and spirituality. The approach proved so successful that at the 2-year mark, pepperedBLACK® Security were approached to sell as a viable business model to another partner in the local industry. Respect for the basis of the concept and its results saw the sale of the business complete with a commitment to the ethos of Aboriginal employment and training by the new owners under the licensed name pepperedBLACK® for 2 years.

pepperedBLACK® Ndundarinj

The latest initiative under the pepperedBLACK® trademark is pepperedBLACK® Ndundarinj. Ndundjarinj is an old Aranda term that refers to a keeper, teacher and someone who is always there for you when you are in need. Under this scheme Des Rogers will share his commercial, public and personal life experience with Aboriginal people who are looking for guidance and information about private enterprise as well as involvement with boards and committees. His services are offered pro bono as a way to give back to the community.

Another facet of Ndundarinj is the contracting of Des’s services as a facilitator of dialogue and understanding between departments and agencies, offering his unique Indigenous Perspective. Mr Rogers is also available for public speaking engagements.