2024 Novita Achievement Award recipients

Each year, we honour several clients who have shown remarkable perseverance, determination, and have achieved their amazing. Here’s a glimpse into their stories.

Regional Achievement Award

Greg

After a severe stroke in 2019, Greg from Port Lincoln faced significant mobility, vision, and communication challenges. Despite initial rehabilitation setbacks, he has shown tremendous determination, progressing with the support of his wife, Tracey, his support team, and a variety of therapies. Greg’s resilience allows him to live independently at home, enjoy outings in his caravan, and engage in longer walks with his power-assist wheelchair. His story is a testament to commitment and perseverance. Well done, Greg!

Communication Achievement Award

Emerson

Seven-year-old Emerson has embraced her communication journey. She uses her iPad’s Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display (PODD) system to make requests, share comments, and even voice her opinions! This device has strengthened her ability to connect with friends, family, and her dance and swimming groups. Emerson’s determination and ability to navigate her communication tool independently are something to be proud of. Congratulations, Emerson!

Wallmans Lawyers Academic Achievement Award

Deacon

Deacon has grown in confidence through his involvement in speech pathology, occupational therapy, and group sessions. He recently represented his High School’s Boccia team in the state finals in Sydney, an incredible milestone for him. Despite the challenges, Deacon’s willingness to step out of his comfort zone and travel far from home is truly commendable. We’re proud of you, Deacon!

Minister's Community Achievement Award

Bryce

Bryce has overcome communication challenges to become an accomplished public speaker and a dedicated advocate for Novita. As an Ambassador for the Mighty River Run, he delivered a heartfelt speech to great applause. Bryce has achieved significant milestones, including independent bus travel, paid employment, and moving into his own home. His commitment to the community and always giving 100% has not gone unnoticed. Fantastic work, Bryce!

Personal Achievement Award

Brayden

Brayden’s journey has been one of impressive personal growth. From initially being reserved, he has developed into a self-assured advocate for himself and his Transition To Work (TTW) classmates. Brayden participates in local council meetings, chairs discussions, and confidently tackles tasks in his work experience placements. His passion and leadership are evident in all he does. Great job, Brayden!

Sara D'Cruz Youth Transition Achievement Award

Shelby

Living in an isolated town has not held Shelby back. Since joining the Transition To Work (TTW) program, she has shown immense commitment, catching an early bus to participate. Shelby has secured employment at Woolworths and has successfully completed work experience. Her positivity and resilience shine in all she does, from customer service to supporting others in the community. Well done, Shelby!

President's Achievement Award

Wolfe

At just four, Wolfe underwent brain surgery and faced a challenging recovery. Despite mobility, communication, and vision obstacles, Wolfe’s strength has enabled him to walk, eat independently, and communicate with both spoken words and signs. Recently, he was able to say “I love you” to his Mum. Wolfe’s incredible progress is a powerful reminder of the resilience of young minds. Congratulations, Wolfe!

Personal Excellence Award

Anthony

Anthony’s commitment to independence shines in his weekly shopping trips, where he picks out his favorite foods and engages with his local community. This confidence boost has led to positive changes at Hedge House, where he’s become a role model. With the support of his team, Anthony is achieving his goals. Keep going, Anthony!

Margory Head Award

Laurinda

Laurinda’s journey since joining Novita last year is a beautiful example of early intervention. Through occupational therapy sessions and mother-child play, Laurinda has progressed from vocalisations to using short phrases and showing confidence in social play. The work she and her Mum have done together has set the foundation for Laurinda’s continued growth. Congratulations, Laurinda!

Minister's Community Achievement Award

Grace

Grace has shown remarkable determination and enthusiasm, participating actively in her school’s musical and rehearsing alongside her friends. While her physical disability affects her leg movements, Grace’s spirit shines bright, and her joyful personality uplifts those around her. Well done, Grace!

Academic Achievement Award

Brody

Brody, a 17-year-old from Pt Lincoln, has excelled in his academic journey at School. Known for his dedication, Brody earned the Mary MacKillop Award in Year 6, the Christian Leadership Award in 2021, and was DUX of Year 9. His achievements in Year 11 included subject awards in Accounting, English, and General Mathematics. Driven by curiosity, Brody completed a research project on cerebral palsy to better understand his diagnosis. With his sights set on accounting and tertiary studies, we look forward to seeing where life takes him. Congratulations, Brody!

Stories