At Asuria, we believe in the power of individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference. This year, at our annual U Day, we proudly announced Karla O’Connor as the recipient of Asuria’s 2024 Rookie of the Year Award.
Based at our Devonport site in North West Tasmania, Karla joined Asuria in December 2023 on a 12-month fixed-term contract as a Mentor. From day one, she has demonstrated an exceptional ability to connect with participants, quickly building rapport and addressing their barriers with empathy and tenacity.
A Mentor with Heart
Karla’s participants often highlight her approachable and compassionate nature. She fosters a safe and welcoming environment, allowing them to share their challenges openly and take steps toward positive change. On several occasions, Karla has been the sole Mentor on-site, responsible for managing caseloads across multiple offices. She has skillfully handled this responsibility, ensuring that each participant receives personalised attention and tailored support.
Her proactive approach to service improvement has also been widely recognised. Karla continually seeks out ways to enhance the experience for her participants, often going the extra mile to support both individuals and the wider team.
Leading by Example
Karla’s dedication was evident during the Open Hiring event in Launceston. Not only did she meticulously prepare resumes for participants from across North-West Tasmania, but she also traveled with them, ensuring they were confident, well-prepared, and professionally presented throughout the event. Her presence offered reassurance and guidance, embodying the values of Asuria’s Enterprising Heart.
In another instance, Karla’s commitment extended beyond her immediate role. When a participant placed in employment felt undervalued in her workplace, Karla provided emotional support, comforted her through her decision to leave the role, and actively collaborated with the In Work Support Mentor to help her find a new opportunity. Karla continued to meet with the participant, prioritising her well-being even after she transitioned out of Karla’s caseload.
A Force for Growth
Karla’s contributions extend beyond participant support. She has been instrumental in helping our Employer Engagement Consultants by reviewing referrals and resumes to ensure quality, demonstrating her commitment to teamwork and excellence. On top of this, Karla has consistently exceeded her placement targets, breaking her own records month after month.
Celebrating Excellence
Karla O’Connor’s compassion, resilience, and drive have made an indelible impact on her participants, colleagues, and the wider Asuria community. Her growth-focused mindset and unwavering commitment to creating positive change embody the spirit of what it means to be an Asurian.
Congratulations, Karla, on this well-deserved recognition. Your incredible efforts remind us all of the difference one person can make in empowering lives and building brighter futures.