Nominee builds up community profile

Tiara Ursua always planned to pursue a full-time career in nursing.

To achieve her goal, the charismatic Harvey resident secured a part-time job in aged care at Hocart Lodge while completing her Year 12 studies.

Ms Ursua then began working at the elderly care centre full-time after graduating as dux of Harvey Senior High School in 2014.

Two years on, the 20-year-old has become a valued member of the Hocart Lodge team – but she is in a completely different role.

“I’m doing reception, administration and accounts,” Ms Ursua said.

“It’s a job I enjoy. It is good to be working within a team environment.”

Ms Ursua started the reception and administration duties earlier this year, with her efforts drawing praise from many of her colleagues including Hocart executive officer Ishbell Reid.

As a result, Ms Reid nominated Ms Ursua for the Catholic Education young leadership category in the upcoming Western Australian Young Achiever Awards.

“Tiara is the first point of contact for all visitors to the facility and I have received so many reports about her professionalism and helpfulness,” Ms Reid said in the nomination form.

“Considering Tiara is only 20, she displays a maturity and professionalism which has enabled the organisation to enhance its reputation within the local community.

“Tiara displays such warmth with our clients and visitors and her ability to problem solve has resulted in less queries being directed to myself which has enabled me to focus on the operational management of the organisation.”

Ms Ursua conceded the nomination came as a surprise, but said she was thankful to have been acknowledged for her hard work.

The awards will be presented at a gala dinner in Perth on May 12 next year.