At Strive, we know that meaningful client outcomes are often built on thoughtful research, practical support and a whole lot of heart behind the scenes. This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Annabel, one of our Employment Support Officers, whose work plays an important role in helping clients explore realistic pathways, build confidence and take positive steps toward their goals.
Balancing her role at Strive with university life, Annabel brings curiosity, care and a strong appreciation for people’s individual stories to everything she does. Whether she is completing labour market research, identifying psychosocial activities, or supporting the team with information that helps move a client’s recovery journey forward, Annabel’s contribution is a great reminder that every piece of the puzzle matters.
In this staff spotlight, Annabel shares what a great day at Strive looks like, the three words she uses to describe our culture, and how travel, study, fitness and a love of learning help her show up as her best self. Her reflections capture so much of what we value at Strive: support, collaboration, flexibility and the meaningful impact we can have when we work together.
How long have you been part of the team at Strive? What is your role?
I have been part of the Strive team for about 18 months, and I work for Strive around my Uni classes and other commitments. My role is in employment support, where I conduct psychosocial research to support clients’ achievement in their psychosocial goals which means engaging in hobbies or activities that enhance their mental, emotional and social well-being. My other roles include conducting labour market research by analysing data regarding employment trends, workforce demographics, wage distributions, and skill demands for clients looking to move into new fields of employment. No two days are the same at Strive which makes it exciting and rewarding.
What does a “great day at Strive” look like for you—and what part of your role lights you up most?
A great day at Strive is one where I feel like I have contributed to something meaningful for a client. It might involve completing research that helps identify suitable employment pathways, finding a psychosocial activity that aligns with a client’s interests and goals, or supporting the team with information that helps move a client’s recovery journey forward. The part of my role that lights me up most is knowing that the work I do behind the scenes can help create practical, achievable options for clients and support them to build confidence, independence and direction.
If you had to describe Strive’s culture in three words, what would they be and why?
If I had to describe Strive’s culture in three words, it would be supportive, collaborative and rewarding.
Supportive because everyone is willing to help, share knowledge and make sure clients receive the best possible service. I have always felt encouraged to ask questions, learn from others and grow within my role.
Collaborative because the team works together across different areas of expertise to achieve positive outcomes. There is a strong sense that everyone brings something valuable to the table, and that shared approach makes the work more effective and meaningful.
Rewarding because even small contributions can make a real difference in a client’s life. It is motivating to be part of a workplace where the focus is on helping people rebuild confidence, achieve goals and move forward in ways that are meaningful to them.
Outside of work, what fills your cup—and how does Strive support you to show up as your best self?
Outside of work, travelling and making the most of my university breaks all help fill my cup. Being a university student means that in between semesters I have longer holiday breaks, and I have been lucky enough to travel to more than twenty different corners of the globe and experience lots of different cultures which enhances my cultural understanding and sensitivity that I can bring to Strive.
Strive supports me to show up as my best self by allowing flexibility around my university classes and other commitments. That balance helps me stay motivated, manage my responsibilities and bring a positive mindset to work.
I also love going to the gym, hiking and walking my dogs which fills my cup everyday.
What’s one moment in your role where you’ve thought, “Yep, this is exactly why I love what I do”?
One moment that stands out is when research I completed helped identify an employment pathway or psychosocial activity that genuinely suited a client’s interests, strengths and goals. Seeing that information turn into a practical option for someone is a great reminder of why I enjoy this role. It shows that even the research and preparation work behind the scenes can have a meaningful impact on a person’s confidence, motivation and next steps.
What is your favourite well being quote/saying?
“Looking after yourself is part of doing your best work.”
✨ Staff Spotlight: Bec McCauley ✨