Mirriwoong-Yorta Yorta man John Camm’s life story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, a journey from the depths of intergenerational trauma to the helm of an award-winning business built on principles of diversity and inclusion. His success with Rainy Day Recruitment is all the more remarkable considering the obstacles he has overcome.

At the age of four, John and his two younger sisters were forcibly removed from their Aboriginal mother. His mother, Judith, was only fourteen years old when she gave birth to John, and just eighteen when all three children were taken into state care. This moment marked the beginning of a painful cycle of separation that shaped their lives.

John’s removal was part of a broader, devastating policy that led to the Stolen Generations—an attempt to assimilate Indigenous children by severing their ties to family, culture, and identity. Though John and his sisters remained together for some time, the trauma of their displacement left an enduring impact.

Judith, a Mirriwoong-Yorta Yorta woman, had experienced this trauma firsthand. She was taken from Country in Kununurra and placed in the Forrest River Mission, an institution run by the Anglican Church. There, strict rules and segregation cut her off from her family and culture. When she left, she became a young, single mother with no resources or support - circumstances that ultimately led to her children being taken from her. This cycle of forced separation became a lifelong battle, one she fought until her passing in 2016.

John’s teenage years were marked by instability, foster care, and time in juvenile detention. Constant disruption and a lack of support left him struggling with identity and direction. Eventually, he found himself living on the streets, facing the harsh realities of survival with little opportunity for change.

His life took a pivotal turn in 1979 when journalist Stacey Molloy of The West Australian published an article about an Aboriginal mother searching for her three lost children. John’s sister recognised their names in the story, and this discovery set off a chain of events that led to their reunion with Judith.

After 14 years apart, John finally saw his mother again. However, the moment was complex. Growing up disconnected from his heritage, he had no knowledge of his Aboriginal identity. Seeing Judith - an Aboriginal woman walking towards him - was overwhelming. But in that moment, everything changed.

Despite reconnecting with his mum, John’s challenges continued. Struggles with addiction and incarceration followed, each obstacle reinforcing the societal barriers placed before him. While serving time in the correctional system, he found a turning point: education and self-improvement. Yet, he soon realised that in Australia, a criminal record would define him no matter how much he changed.

Determined to escape the constraints of his past, he made a bold decision - he left Australia. Moving to the UK provided him with the opportunity to prove himself without the weight of past perceptions. Free from judgment, he built a successful career, developed his skills, and redefined his future.

Years later, he returned to Australia - not as the person he once was, but as someone who had transformed his life. More than redemption, his journey became proof of what is possible when given the chance to rise above one’s past.

This achievement marked a significant step in rebuilding his reputation and pursuing his entrepreneurial aspirations.

John now has children of his own and remains committed to ensuring they understand both their Indigenous and European heritage. His commitment to cultural connection has become a journey of empowerment, reinforcing the importance of knowing who you are and embracing your roots.

Despite the challenges he faced, John built a thriving career in recruitment. Partnering with Kristi McMillan, he co-founded Rainy Day Recruitment, a company dedicated to diversity and inclusion, ensuring minority groups have access to meaningful employment opportunities.

Recognising the importance of education and representation, Rainy Day Recruitment established a scholarship for Aboriginal Peoples pursuing studies in STEM or business, providing financial support, mentorship, and internship opportunities to help shape future leaders.

John’s leadership and dedication have made Rainy Day Recruitment a standout in the industry. The company’s commitment to excellence and diversity was recognised in 2024 with five prestigious industry awards, highlighting its impact on recruitment and social change.

The company was honoured as the South Australian Indigenous Business of the Year and received the Telstra Best of Business Award for Indigenous Excellence in South Australia, reflecting its commitment to empowering Indigenous communities.

Its innovative and ethical approach was further acknowledged with the RCSA Outstanding Agency (Up to 10 Staff) Award, while its leadership in diversity, equity, and inclusion was celebrated with the APSCo Award for Excellence in DE&I.

Finally, Rainy Day Recruitment’s rapid growth and success since it opened its doors in 2021 was recognised with the Tiara Award for Best New Recruitment Company, cementing its reputation as a leader in the industry.

John Camm’s story is more than one of hardship - it is a powerful illustration of resilience, determination, and the ability to forge new paths. His journey serves as a reminder of the lasting effects of the Stolen Generations and the importance of providing opportunities for those who have been marginalised.

By building a business that champions diversity and inclusion, John is not just redefining his own future - he is helping to shape a more equitable Australia for generations to come.