Building women’s confidence through digital skills

Indigenous owned creative and content agency Lola Digital is helping clients promote their brands using creative content strategies that are respectful to community, culture and traditions.

What began as a solo venture in 2019 by founder Kantesha Takai has grown into a thriving business in the Torres Strait that is not only delivering high-quality digital services but also building local capacity in a region where these opportunities were previously rare.

“When I started, there was no one in the region I could subcontract to,” Kantesha shared.

“I was working with people from the mainland and overseas. That’s when I saw the opportunity to grow skills locally”.

Kantesha applied for funding through the Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) program. She was not expecting to be successful, but says the funding came at a perfect time, enabling her to create new positions, filled by Laura de Jersey, Creative Project Assistant and Rozahlia Dorante, Content Creator.

“I’ve enjoyed working at Lola Digital, not only because of the support I’ve received but also the sense that my work actually matters. I felt trusted to take ownership of my role and responsibilities, and felt encouraged to grow, both professionally and personally. Our team environment has been collaborative and respectful, which has made even challenging moments feel like opportunities to learn rather than setbacks” said Laura.

In just a short time, Laura and Rozahlia have successfully contributed to Lola Digital. Their work has been featured in local newspapers, and they recently planned and hosted a local community event that over 200 people attended. Laura and Rozahlia led key components of the event from marketing and logistics to decorations and hosting, demonstrating the same skills they use to support their clients.

“They went above and beyond,” Kantesha said. “They took the lead and brought the community together." 

The team is also very eager to build on their industry capabilities through upskilling in areas such as website development, advanced content creation, digital design and industry specific certifications. RJED funding can also assist with these goals by supporting training and professional development opportunities.

“My time at Lola Digital has strengthened my passion for the digital space. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from an inspiring team and look forward to continuing my growth within the industry.” Rozahlia Dorante, Content Creator

Despite challenges such as freight delays and limited access to resources, Lola Digital has proved its resilience and determination, showing that through the right support, businesses in remote communities can still succeed.

“Working with Lola Digital has helped me build confidence in myself and in my skills, and better understand my own strengths. Overall, this employment has been a very positive and meaningful experience that I’m grateful for, and excited to see what the year brings” Laura de Jersey, Creative Project Assistant

The agency’s impact was recently recognised when they won the 2025 Regional Indigenous Business award as part of Indigenous Business month. The award acknowledges businesses making impactful contributions to regional economies, a testament to Lola Digital’s leadership and innovation in the Torres Strait. “It is truly an honour to be recognised with the 2025 Regional Indigenous Business Award. We are privileged to live, work and grow Lola Digital on Waiben in Zenadth Kes. We are driven by our community and our success isn't possible without the support of our community, our team and our clients in the region and abroad. So where we can, we give back, share our knowledge and support mepla people in the journey towards building a stronger Indigenous business economy in Zenadth Kes.” Kantesha Takai

It’s not just about employment, it’s about empowerment and Lola Digital is creating a future where digital work can thrive, even in the most remote corners of Australia.

Photo: Kantesha Takai, Laura de Jersey and Rozahlia Dorante from Lola Digital