2022 has been a massive year of growth for us at Asuria, and we couldn't be prouder. This year, we expanded to 200+ locations across Australia, and our Asuria family more than doubled to almost 600 employees - that's twice the amount of Enterprising Heart!
So, let's celebrate the year that was by taking a trip down memory lane as we revisit the lives we've helped change in 2022.
This year, we were entrusted with several Workforce Australia contracts, which allowed new and existing clients to reach their employment potential. One of our favourite stories from the year comes from Workforce Australia participant Panagiotis, who left his home in Greece to pursue a better life in Australia. Leaving his loved ones behind, Asuria helped Panagiotis find his Australian family through his employer and co-workers at the automotive company Tempe Tyres.
Amongst Panagiotis, we also placed 89 more Australians into work with Tempe Tyre's, many of which are Indigenous or have culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. What an outstanding achievement and relationship!
COVID-19 impacted many small businesses, but through our Workforce Australia Self-Employment Assistance Program, we helped existing and future business owners bring their ideas to life. In October, we shared the story of Self-Employment Assistance participant Lynda. The academic turned upholster, Lynda launched her business Maggie Moffit Mid Century Modern, which is having great success in Castlemaine. Alongside Lynda, we helped participant Stefan introduce German chocolate Down Under (yum), and Kyneton local Jeanine launched Arteeze, a creative arts and disability support business for young people.
Moving along, Asuria is proud to have continued to support mothers and fathers in rediscovering balance through our ParentsNext Program. At our Marion office, our Asuria mentors helped mother of three, Sarah, reclaim her confidence by purchasing her a stylish new work wardrobe. Now, Sarah walks around her office with a spring in her step, which she says has also helped her become happier at home.
This year we continued to provide unconditional support to our Disability Employment Services participants. Eight of our Disability Employment Services job seekers in the Sydney Hunter region are employed, and Lovin It, thanks to Asuria Mentor Jenni and her close relationship with McDonalds. Hired at the Kurri Kurri McDonalds, participant Hannah once believed her anxiety would prevent her from making it past the interview stage. However, to Hannah’s surprise, she can now speak up at work and get her job done, without anxiety holding her back.
Another heart-warming story from our Disability Employment Services team comes from participant James, who went from being 17 years unemployed to becoming a Government Concierge with the help of Asuria Mentors, Elly and Darren. James is now celebrating six months as a Concierge with the Department of Regional NSW, and we couldn't be prouder to see him happy and successful.
Towards the back end of 2022, 15 Indigenous job seekers were selected to participate in a Maritime Operations program, as part of Asuria’s collaboration with Babana Aboriginal Men’s Group, and Tribal Warrior. At the event, each participant received a certificate of recognition for participating in the program, which included a Cert I in Maritime Operations, Responsible Service of Alcohol and First Aid. It was a lovely day that commemorated training and upskilling for job opportunities that may have otherwise been out of reach. Asuria and Babana Aboriginal Men's Group are committing to placing 90% of the job seekers with the NRMA Group over the next six weeks – what a fantastic way to start the new year!
It was the year for awards at Asuria, as we had not one but two finalists in the 2022 National Employment Services Association (NESA) Award for Excellence. Former Disability Employment Services job seeker Francine was nominated for her ability to overcome extraordinary disadvantages to achieve employment. Asuria Mentor Di was recognised for excellence in helping disadvantaged Australians achieve employment inclusion. Asuria Executive Chairman Con Kittos, also came out an award winner, as he was named ‘International People Services Chairman of the Year 2022’. Delivered and judged by CEO Monthly magazine, Con was honoured to be recognised globally for his exceptional work in taking Asuria to the next level.
It's been a whirlwind of a year here at Asuria, and we wouldn't have it any other way! We want to extend a huge thank you to our staff, job seekers, employers, and partners - we wouldn't have been able to do it without your support. We can't wait to continue sharing our Enterprising Heart with you in the new year – see you in 2023!