Hard work can do it
WARWICK'S Deeann Natividad is humbled and honoured to be included among the finalists in the 2012 Telstra Queensland Business Women's Awards, but it is hard work that has got her there.
The Mission Australia Employment Solutions Division regional manager is being recognised in the White Pages Community and Government Award.
Ms Natividad manages budgets of up to $25 million in delivering programs for indigenous people across Queensland and the Northern Territory and during her 12 years at Mission Australia, she has led and developed a new employment services business unit in Warwick.
The unit's culture of continuous improvement was awarded a five-star rating by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, the first time this had been achieved within Mission Australia.
And while the nomination was exciting enough, winning would be "amazing" for the indigenous role model.
"I'm mum to four beautiful daughters and to be able to show them that with hard work, perseverance and passion you can achieve anything," Ms Natividad said.
"Awards like this are important because we should celebrate successful women.
"As women we often underestimate our impact and what we have achieved. I mean I have worked full-time, raised four girls and completed under-grad and post-grad qualifications.
"That's quite an achievement on its own. Also there is a lack of indigenous role models and as an indigenous woman who has achieved this, that's pretty amazing."
Ms Natividad said she loved her job because she could make a difference in people's lives.
"And I'm particularly proud of the success I have had in implementing Indigenous Employment Programs," she said.
Winners will be announced at a gala luncheon October 5 in Brisbane.
