The award, presented by Moral Fairground and Australian Ethical, recognises enterprises for its innovative and ethical practices that delivery positive social and economic impact.
Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia makes a difference by selling ethically sourced gifts from Africa through its shop and online store. Lead by Dr Catherine Hamlin, these funds are raised by volunteers exclusively for the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital. The hospital has five regional centres containing wards, operating theatres, surgical teams, physiotherapy department and pathology services to support women with complicated childbirths. The main hospital has a 120-bed capacity but at times has two patients in some beds.
Cora Clough, Industry Engagement Manager at Centre for Workplace Leadership and judge of the 2015 Ethical Enterprise Award, believes the Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia charity is a fantastic example of the power of ethical enterprise for making genuine positive change.
Phil Vernon, Managing Director of Australian Ethical and award judge, believes the award raise awareness of social conscious leadership and ethically oriented business.
“This award celebrates the importance of informed ethical leadership and demonstrates how organisations that seek an ethical, sustainable offering can also provide great financial returns.
“Conservative figures place the number of social enterprises in Australia at around 20,000, demonstrating an admirable commitment to innovative and ethical practices,” said Vernon.