Kane Blackman is the CEO of Good Sammy, an organisation creating employment pathways for Western Australians with disability while championing sustainability.
In this month’s ‘On The Ground Intel’ we asked Kane to share his Perth with us: the places, rituals and perspectives that shape how he sees our city.
In this month’s ‘On The Ground Intel’ we asked Kane to share his Perth with us: the places, rituals and perspectives that shape how he sees our city.
What do you love most about living in Perth?
I arrived to Perth in 2006 from Melbourne, rented a house and married the landlord’s daughter. I love that Perth created that connection with my wife, Sarah, and gave us two sons, James and Finn. I also love Perth’s sense of freedom and possibility, best enjoyed late afternoon by the water or at Rottnest.
You are active in creating a better future for people living with disabilities, what’s one thing Perth could do better?
Give more people with disability a job. There are 100,000 Western Australians with disability of working age that don’t have a job, yet so many employers are seeking more help. We know how important work is for connection, belonging and independence. I just want everyone to have that chance and to be able to contribute their skills and abilities.
What is your go-to coffee or tea spot?
As a West Leedy local, I am spoiled for choice: Butters, Besk, Mary Street, Piccolo’s or the Bowlo. However, its Good Sammy’s baristas at our Canning Vale head office cafeteria that make sure I get my coffee fix each day.
(Kane pictured with Good Sammy barista Shawn).
Has leading a purpose-driven organisation changed how you experience Perth as a city?
Before Good Sammy, I worked in purely corporate roles within private equity, mining and financial services. Leading a for-purpose charity and social enterprise has helped me see Perth in new ways. There is a very rich eco-system of goodwill and connection in Perth – from households, corporates, resource companies, government, social enterprises, NFPs and philanthropists all striving to make Perth better. I love looking for links and opportunities to drive these connections to deliver a wider, positive social, economic and environmental impact for Perth.
I also can’t go past a Perth suburb anymore without thinking about opening a new Good Sammy store or social enterprise within it! I’m constantly reminded how incredibly fortunate most of us are to live here, in terms of safety and quality of life, and how important connection to place and each other is.
What is your favourite way to wind down before or after work?
I love to run, so you’ll find me exploring one of the many Perth tracks and trails. It helps keep me calm and present.
Winding down before work is not possible given we have a seven and an eleven year old in the house!
What does your favourite weekend in Perth look like?
Exploring a new venue, event or beer garden. Playing outside with my kids. Tending to the veggie garden. Going for a long run. Planning the next adventure.
What does Perth have, that no other city has?
Exceptional weather, which allows you to spend more time outside doing the things you love.