2024 Self-Employment Business Awards
Finalists Shortlist
The call for nomination for for the 2024 SELF-EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE Business Awards has closed and we are excited to announce the finalists who have been shortlisted in each categorey.
The awards are to be presented at a Dinner to be held on September 10, 2024, in Adelaide. The association is also delighted to announce BizCover is again the proud sponsor of these awards.
Best New Business Award
The Best New Business award is presented to a current new business that has been in operation for less than 2 years. The award aims to recognise proprietors new to business who have demonstrated good business management practices in establishing and growing their business for long-term success. If the business is older than 9 months, the business proprietor must not have returned to Services Australia income support payments.
Dylan Try: Recognized for Outstanding Community Engagement
Dylan Try has been shortlisted for his exceptional community engagement and client-focused design strategies. He emphasizes understanding client needs and collaborating closely with contractors to ensure sustainable and community-centered designs. His work promotes social interaction and enhances living experiences, with mentorship from VERTO playing a key role in his success.
Paulette Smith: Innovation in the Dental Industry
Paulette Smith, a dedicated dental hygienist, is recognized for her contributions to the dental industry, including advocating for independent practice rights for hygienists and creating Tri-Dente, a business offering premium dental products and training. Her efforts, supported by Sarina Russo Entrepreneurs, have empowered dental professionals and achieved significant business growth.
Christopher Markovski: Empowerment Through Care4UMate
Christopher Markovski founded Care4UMate in 2023, offering personalized support for individuals with disabilities. His effective business management and compassionate approach have driven the company’s success, supported by APM’s mentoring program. Care4UMate is expanding to become a registered NDIS Provider, reflecting Christopher’s commitment to community impact.
Eduardo Weisinger: Earthwize’s Ethical Cleaning Services
Eduardo Weisinger’s Earthwize, launched in October 2023, focuses on ethical, sustainable cleaning services. The company, which hires from disadvantaged backgrounds, has grown rapidly due to excellent management and strategic marketing. Earthwize, a member of 1% for the Planet, donates a portion of its turnover to social and environmental causes, emphasizing its commitment to community and sustainability.
BizCover Change Award
The BizCover Change award recognises that Self-Employment Assistance often changes lives forever. To be eligible for this award, the business must be able to demonstrate that undertaking the Self-Employment Assistance program has turned their life around – be it financially, mentally and/or emotionally. The Self-Employment Assistance business proprietors must have completed their period of Self-Employment Assistance and not be in receipt of Services Australia income support payments. The business must have been in operation for at least 12 months, and no more than 3 years.
Joanne’s Transformation: From Homelessness to Successful Business Owner Joanne Howard overcame homelessness to build her mobile coffee business, “Coffee’s Hot.” With support, she stabilized her life, caught up on taxes, and expanded her venture, which sources locally roasted coffee and hires staff from disadvantaged backgrounds. Joanne’s journey exemplifies resilience and determination.
Josh Shand’s Transformation: From Adversity to Business Success Josh Shand went from living in a rooftop tent to running a successful lawn care and property maintenance business. Despite hardships, he transformed his life with help from the Self Employment Assistance Program. His work has positively impacted both his family and clients, demonstrating the power of perseverance and support.
Katie and Daniel Ryan: Transforming Lives through Gardening Business Katie and Daniel Ryan turned unemployment into a thriving gardening business. Their services, including mowing and garden restoration, are vital to their community. They employ local youth as apprentices and have balanced work and family life. Their success story highlights the importance of mentorship and community support.
Marieke Treloar: From Survivor to Empowered Entrepreneur Marieke Treloar, a domestic violence survivor, launched Celtic Stag, a men’s jewellery line inspired by Celtic and Norse mythology. Through the Self Employment Assistance Program, she gained business skills and expanded her venture to include workshops and public speaking. Marieke’s journey is a testament to resilience and empowerment.
Unsung Hero Award
The Unsung Hero award recognises those who have provided support to the program from behind the scenes, be it in Administration, Quality Assurance, Program design, Marketing or supporting other team members along with other facets of making the program successful. They will be committed, positive, and willing to go the extra mile to ensure the success of their Team.
Alyssa Mudford Shortlisted for Unsung Hero Award
Alyssa Mudford has been recognized for her pivotal role in the Self-Employment Assistance program, utilizing her expertise in data and business intelligence to enhance participant success. She leads informative sessions and webinars, streamlining processes to save time for facilitators and participants. Alyssa’s innovative approach, including developing a resource hub, has been crucial in improving VERTO’s program delivery.
Androulla Shortlisted for Unsung Hero Award
Androulla has been a key figure in the Self-Employment Assistance (SEA) program at Holmesglen, known for her ICT knowledge and organizational skills. Her proactive mindset ensures smooth operations and high compliance standards. Androulla’s calm approach and dedication to continuous improvement make her invaluable, exemplifying her as a true team player.
Hannah Shortlisted for Unsung Hero Award
Hannah Peronace’s meticulous work behind the scenes at Auctus has been crucial for the Self-Employment Assistance Program’s success. Her ICT expertise, problem-solving skills, and organizational prowess ensure seamless operations. Hannah’s attention to detail and positive attitude create a welcoming environment for participants, making her an indispensable team member.
Karmel Shortlisted for Unsung Hero Award
Karmel Surban’s role in the Sarina Russo Group’s Self-Employment Assistance (SEA) program has been essential. Her expertise in marketing has driven successful campaigns and boosted client referrals. Karmel maintains high office standards and delivers dynamic social media campaigns, providing valuable support to clients and colleagues, making her a standout candidate for the Unsung Hero Award.
Business Champion Award
The Business Champion Award is presented to an employee or subcontractor of a Self-Employment Assistance provider who is actively involved in the conduct of Self-Employment Assistance. They may be a trainer, or a Coach providing support services directly to participants. The award aims to recognise those who have positively influenced the program from their interaction with clients and through their commitment to excellence, positive attitude and a willingness to go the extra mile to ensure the success of the program
Craig Joppich: Craig Joppich, nominated for the Business Champion Award, has significantly contributed as a Self-Employment Assistance trainer at Auctus. His expertise in designing and enhancing training resources for entrepreneurship courses, along with his adaptability and motivational skills, has been instrumental in guiding small business start-ups. Craig’s commitment extends beyond training sessions; he secured a Digital Inclusion grant to enhance digital skills training for participants and completed a Dual Diploma in Training and Assessment, demonstrating his dedication to excellence. His innovative approach and ongoing support have earned him consistent praise from participants, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious award.
Greame Kane: Greame Kane, nominated for the Business Champion Award by Asuria, has made exceptional contributions as a Business Mentor with 30 years of entrepreneurial experience. He organizes monthly networking events, fostering collaboration and creating business opportunities for Self-Employment Assistance (S-EA) program participants. Greame supports participants in developing business plans and navigating community resources, particularly for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) participants. His creative problem-solving, leadership, and unwavering dedication inspire both colleagues and participants, making him a truly deserving candidate for this award.
India Christensen: India Christensen, an outstanding member of Sarina Russo Group’s Self-Employment Assistance (S-EA) team, is shortlisted for the Business Champion Award. With 15 years of expertise, India brings passion and enthusiasm to business training, inspiring and supporting over 7,000 clients. She excels in delivering both face-to-face and online training, managing Masterclasses, and adapting to online platforms during the COVID-19 transition. Her calm professionalism and significant contributions to Small Business Training have solidified her reputation, making her a deserving candidate for this prestigious award.
Scott Perry: Scott Perry, a facilitator at Sea to Valley Startups, is nominated for the Business Champion Award for his dedication and innovative thinking. With over 27 years of experience, Scott has facilitated notable successes, including securing a national distributor deal for a client. He excels in developing tailored business plans, providing insightful coaching, and fostering a collaborative environment. Scott’s commitment to excellence and his significant contributions to program enhancements and client support make him a standout candidate for this award, empowering regional communities and inspiring client success.
Prizes
The awards are to be presented at a Dinner to be held on September 10, 2024, in Adelaide. The association is also delighted to announce BizCover is again the proud sponsor of these awards. All finalists for all four categories will receive a Certificate of Recognition.
- Best New Business Award winner will receive a plaque and $1,500
- BizCover Change Award winner will receive a plaque and $1,500.
- Unsung Hero Award will receive a plaque and $1,500.
- Business Champion Award will receive a plaque and $1,500.
