We introduced a new category in the 2025 Brave Awards – The Aruma Way Award. This award acknowledges an individual or team who has done an outstanding job of demonstrating our commitment to quality, and embodies the goals in our quality framework.
We’re proud to have many worthy entries from across the organisation; of our people going above and beyond to uphold the human rights of every person we support, every time.
They are the game changers, the thought leaders and the beating heart of our organisation, delivering ‘your way, the safe way, the right way, together’ every day.
Congratulations to our two winners – Shannon and Leo.
Introducing Winner, Shannon – Manager Shared Living, QLD
Shannon was nominated for leading a transformation of her team and the quality of support they provide. With a leadership style defined by compassion, expertise and an unwavering commitment to uplifting everyone around her, Shannon is the embodiment of The Aruma Way in action.
A fierce advocate, Shannon leads with kindness, ensuring that participants’ rights and needs are always at the forefront, whether she’s navigating complex situations or celebrating their achievements. Families trust her because she listens deeply, communicates transparently and never hesitates to go the extra mile.
“Winning the Aruma Way Award is such an incredible honour. I’m truly grateful to work alongside such amazing teams, who inspire me to be better every single day. Together, we always strive to achieve the very best outcomes for our participants, and that shared commitment is what makes our work so meaningful. I’m also incredibly lucky to have such a supportive regional manager who continually challenges me to step out of my comfort zone, building my resilience and strengthening my leadership skills. This award reflects the support, passion, and dedication of everyone around me.” – Shannon
Introducing Runner Up, Leo – Support Worker, QLD
Nominated for his kindness, advocacy and compassion, Leo embodies not only the Aruma Way quality framework but many attributes that make everything and everyone around him better. It’s high – but well-deserved – praise.
Leo doesn’t just show up to work, he leads with compassion and a hands-on approach to support both participants and his colleagues.
Leo has an incredible ability to connect with the people we support. He doesn’t just assist, he empowers them. A strong advocate, he ensures participants’ voices are heard and their choices are respected. For his unwavering dedication, his incredible adaptability and the genuine care he brings to his work every single day, Leo is a very worthy recipient of the award.
Not just an asset to the team, Leo’s a role model for what person-centered support should look like.
“It feels great to be recognized, because it means my teammates value the work I do and the way I go about being a team contributor, even better is knowing the overall winner was my manager, and mentor, Shannon.” – Leo
