The volunteers I work alongside, from Darwin to Alice Springs and everywhere in between, show incredible professionalism, compassion, and dedication to keeping our communities safe. I’m proud to be part of a team that makes such a difference

My journey with St John began 12 years ago when I joined as a youth member, simply looking for an opportunity to learn new skills, meet people and contribute to my community. At the time, I never imagined the impact that decision would have on my life. What began as a chance to learn first aid and make new friends grew into a passion for service, leadership and helping others achieve their potential.

Over the years, St John has been a place where I have learned, grown and challenged myself. Through volunteering at community events, undertaking training, supporting members and taking on leadership roles, I have gained experiences that have shaped both my personal and professional life. Today, I am incredibly proud to serve as a Superintendent, becoming the youngest Superintendent in St John NT’s history, and to have been recognised with the Peter Falkland Youth Leader Award.

For me, the essence of St John is service, compassion and community. It is about being there when people need support, whether at a local event, during an emergency, or simply by encouraging someone to take their next step. Some of my most rewarding experiences have come from mentoring young people and watching them discover confidence in themselves. I have learned that leadership is not about a title or rank. It is about helping others grow, creating opportunities, and believing in people before they believe in themselves.

I have been fortunate to have mentors throughout my St John journey who encouraged me, challenged me and entrusted me with responsibility. Their support helped me realise that I was capable of more than I thought possible. In turn, I have tried to provide that same encouragement to others. One of the greatest joys of my role is seeing young members embrace opportunities, develop their skills and go on to achieve things they once thought were out of reach.

St John has also inspired my future career. The experiences I have gained through volunteering sparked a passion for healthcare, and I am now studying paramedicine at Charles Darwin University. Whether volunteering at major community events, leading youth members, or serving a 24-hour shift at a cyclone shelter during Cyclone Fina, I have seen firsthand the extraordinary difference volunteers make in people’s lives.

As a woman in leadership, I believe it is important to share stories not only of major achievements, but also of the everyday contributions that often go unnoticed. Countless women volunteer their time, mentor others, support their communities and quietly create opportunities for those around them. Their impact deserves to be recognised and remembered.

If there is one message I hope future generations take from my story, it is that you do not need to know exactly where your journey will lead. Take the opportunity. Put your hand up. Be willing to learn, make mistakes and grow. Most importantly, believe in yourself. When I joined St John as a young person, I never imagined I would one day become a Superintendent. My story is proof that where you start does not determine where you will finish, and that with support, determination and a willingness to serve, there are no limits to what you can achieve.