2025 Novita Client Achievement Awards

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

Minister's Community Achievement Award

Matt

Matt is a warm, imaginative young man with Down syndrome who has embraced countless new opportunities since completing high school. With support from our Step-Up program, therapy services, and one-to-one mentoring, he has strengthened his confidence, independence, and communication skills.

He also works part-time at Woolworths, where he’s recognised as a committed team member and continues to grow in both capability and self-reliance.

We’re proud to acknowledge Matt’s hard work, progress, and positive impact in his community.

Personal Achievement Award

Lorelei

Lorelei is a courageous autistic 10-year-old who started Aquatic Therapy earlier this year with a significant fear of water. Thanks to her determination and the guidance of her therapy team, she has completely reshaped her confidence in the pool.

She can now swim on her own, put her head underwater, jump into deep water, and take part in both pool and land-based exercise sessions with ease. Her strength, coordination, and self-confidence have grown remarkably.

Help us celebrate Lorelei’s courage, persistence, and outstanding progress!

Communication Achievement Award

Zachary (Zac)

Zac is a clever, cheeky 12-year-old who uses a PODD communication book. This year, he absolutely smashed his goal of “talk with my friends.”

With support from his family, school, and therapy team, Zac started Mario Kart Club at school, using his head switch to play alongside his mates. This led to him hosting a school-holiday play date – a huge milestone in expanding his social world. Zac has also shown resilience during a year of increased seizure activity. Even in challenging moments, he advocated for himself using his Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display (PODD) device. Please join us in congratulating Zac for his hard work, courage, and determination

Recreation and Sporting Achievement Award

Emma

Emma has been a proud member of an all-abilities cheer team for more than three years, taking part in regular training and competing at state-level events — all while aiming for the national stage.

As the only wheelchair user on her squad, she has demonstrated incredible commitment to learning complex routines, building her strength, and synchronising her arm and leg movements with the music.

Through aquatic therapy and physiotherapy, Emma has put in remarkable effort to lift her arms higher, increase leg mobility, and polish her overall performance technique.

Join us in celebrating Emma’s passion, perseverance, and impressive achievements in cheer.

Student Encouragement Award

Dilraj

Dilraj is an 18-year-old Year 12 student with duchenne muscular dystrophy who has shown remarkable commitment to staying mobile. After a leg fracture two years ago, it was uncertain whether he would walk again — but with determination and consistent effort, he regained the ability to move around indoors and continues to use his sit-to-stand powered wheelchair when outdoors.

Now approaching the end of high school, Dilraj is excited about pursuing a future in gaming. Join us in celebrating his resilience, determination, and incredible progress.

Academic Achievement Award

Kashish

Meet Kashish, a motivated young woman with cerebral palsy who is redefining what’s possible in the workplace. After finishing Year 12, she is now in her second year of studying Psychology at the University of Adelaide, while enhancing her employability through Novita’s Transition to Work program.

This year, Kashish started volunteering at the Red Cross Op Shop and earned an internship with The Big Issue — showcasing her determination, resilience, and commitment to making a difference.

Let’s celebrate Kashish’s inspiring achievements and dedication.

President's Achievement Award

Zane

Zane has been part of the Novita community from a young age, participating in therapy, Vacation Care, community programs, and even serving as a Mighty River Run ambassador.

This year, he has made remarkable progress toward his goal of building the stamina for a full workday. Through the Transition to Work program and delivering ‘Zuber’ milk between sites, Zane has developed his communication, confidence, professionalism, and strengthened his friendships.

Let’s celebrate Zane’s ongoing journey of growth and achievement with the support of Novita.

Personal Excellence Achievement Award

Lisa

Lisa has navigated a year of significant health challenges, including adapting to 24/7 oxygen therapy — a major change to daily life.

With determination and the guidance of her support team, she has mastered managing her equipment, responding to alarms, attending education sessions, and adjusting her daily routines to maintain independence in personal care and hygiene.

Her courage, dedication to learning, and commitment to self-management are evident at every stage of her journey.

Join us in celebrating Lisa’s resilience, growth, and remarkable achievements.

Early Intervention Award

Alex

Alex is a cheerful, sociable boy who has overcome major medical challenges. Even after extended hospital stays — including a recent six-week admission — he has made incredible progress.

Over the past 12 months, Alex has gone from being unable to use his walker to moving independently around his home, growing stronger, more confident, and determined with each passing day.

Join us in celebrating Alex’s resilience, dedication, and amazing accomplishments!

Regional Achievement Award

Joseph

Joseph is a happy young boy living with his family in Whyalla. With complex needs and limited access to medical services due to distance, he faces unique challenges.

Recently, Joseph has made remarkable progress in communication. He now uses simple words and his Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display (PODD) device, enjoys reading The Gruffalo, and continues to thrive with the support of his family and Novita.

Join us in celebrating Joseph’s growth and achievements in communication.

Youth Transition Achievement Award

Joshua

Joshua has made an impressive transition from school into adult life. This year, he confronted his fear of driving, taking regular lessons and even purchasing his own car with his savings. He also secured a job, gained additional responsibilities, and now works five days a week while building strong connections with his colleagues.

Despite personal challenges, Joshua demonstrates remarkable resilience, positivity, and determination. He continually steps out of his comfort zone, participates in a variety of community groups, and remains committed to growing his independence every day.

Join us in celebrating Joshua’s achievements and well-earned progress.

Stories