The National Employment Services Association (NESA) award honours the achievement of an individual who has overcome considerable challenges to gain stable employment.  

“Our Achiever of the Year Award highlights not just hard work and admirable resilience, but also making the most of the supports offered by employment services providers,” NESA CEO Sally Sinclair said.

Ms Hay was accessing the services provided by Interact People Solutions who assist people with injury, illness, health conditions or disability to gain employment. 

Ms Irish said that she was encouraged by Ms Hay’s employment consultant to nominate her for the award. 

“Kellie (Reeves) championed me to nominate Donna … because of the incredible journey and personal achievement she  that she has taken since commencing with us,” Ms Irish said. 

With Ms Reeves support, Donna first identified her interest and goal to gain employment in the community services sector and how to work towards achieving that goal.

Ms Hay gained a Community Service qualification in 2017 and was subsequently offered a casual employment with Life without Barriers as a Residential Support worker. 

Donna has recently commenced studying a Diploma in Community Services and was recently offered a full-time job at Life Without Barriers as a Senior Residential Support worker. 

In a statement outlining her nomination, Ms Hay was recognised for her positive attitude and resilience throughout her five-year journey.

The statement said she had overcome issues of anxiety, isolation and lack of self-esteem to successfully complete a certificate three in community services and gain full-time employment. 

The statement outlined Ms Hay’s newfound confidence for her future, and that she would continue to strive towards improving herself. 

The winner will be announced at the NESA National Conference in August.