International Women’s Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the incredible achievements of women across the world. At AFG, we’re proud to champion the amazing women across our teams who inspire, lead, and make a positive difference every day.
This year, our reflections are inspired by the theme “Give to Gain.” At AFG, this value reflects the idea that when we give our time, support, compassion and encouragement to others, we all benefit. Whether that’s through mentoring colleagues, empowering the people we support to live more independent lives, or creating positive environments where everyone can thrive, the impact of giving often comes back to us in the form of growth, learning and meaningful connections.
Last year, we hosted our annual Amazing People Awards an event where we recognise colleagues for the incredible work they do across AFG. Many of our wonderful female colleagues were nominated for these awards. Hear from some of these inspiring women below as they share what their roles and experiences mean to them.
Supporting One Another to Grow
One colleague reflected on the strong sense of community within their team and how the support of colleagues has helped shape their journey.
“I would love to give mention and praise to each and every one of my amazing colleagues and the people we support for making each day at work a pleasure and not so much like a ‘work day’. This is all due to having developed such a close knit, family like unit, where each individual is made to feel valued for their own skill set and uniqueness.
My colleagues have supported me to get to where I am now in my career at AFG and the progress I have made here due to more experienced colleagues, offering me advice and guidance. Which I am extremely grateful for, so that I can continue to better my practice, grow and develop, so that I am able to better support the people we support.
My award during the Amazing People Awards was a shock, however it is nice to feel like the work you do it appreciated and valued. I was very grateful to have received this award and nomination. The awards were a pleasure and such a fun night! The people we support continue to make me strive to better my practice to aid them in becoming more independent and have a good quality life. Each day the people we support inspire me with their determination and resilience.”
Learning Through Care and Resilience
Another colleague shared how their role has shaped their perspective and strengthened their resilience.
“This job has taught me resilience and to be more patient. I feel blessed to support our wonderful ladies they are all incredible with such a blend of personalities.
I also feel lucky to work with such a team of lovely, strong, focused woman who have person centred care at the forefront.
What being a support worker with AFG has taught me is to think outside the box, your idea of right isn’t always someone else’s and to question until you find the solution.
Being a support worker is a role that makes you feel you really make a difference.
Our team’s objective is to create a safe happy environment where the people we support can thrive and live their best lives.
In November I attended the amazing people awards after kindly being nominated by my Team leader. It was such a fantastic night and I was so thrilled to actually win. It was lovely to be recognised for doing well in my role.
Just to reiterate I feel proud to be part of a team of strong willed fabulous woman and we will all continue to work together to support each other as well as the amazing ladies we support.”
Growing Through Experience
Another colleague shared how the people they support and the colleagues around them have shaped their career path.
“My career has been shaped and truly lifted by the people I have supported and by the colleagues who have believed in me, especially in the moments when I doubted myself. My Team Leaders and Area Manager have been constant mentors, guiding me every step of the way.
I began my AFG journey in November 2016 as a support worker. In October 2019, I became a Team Leader, the same year I proudly earned my Bachelor of Science degree. In October 2023, I took the next step and became an Area Manager. Every challenge along the way has taught me something valuable, and every opportunity to help others grow has helped me grow too.
Being recognised at the Amazing People Awards reminded me how far commitment, compassion, and resilience can take you when you stay connected to your purpose.
The biggest influences on my career have been the people I’ve supported. They’ve taught me patience, empathy, and strength. I’ve had the privilege of supporting some truly incredible individuals, some of whom are no longer with us who became my greatest inspirations. There have been countless fun times, meaningful moments, and stories I’ll carry with me always… many of them still to be shared another day.”
Creating Opportunities and Positive Change
Our final reflection highlights the importance of opportunities and the joy of helping people live fulfilling lives.
“I have had a positive working life at AFG as I have been given opportunities, when first starting with the company I was given the chance to complete my NVQ level 2 and 3. I have also been given the activity co-ordinator role which is what I love to do.
I enjoy seeing patients back in the community making new starts for themselves and finding what they enjoy. I have supported people moving into their own home in the community, which is a great achievement for anyone.
We have a amazing Manager who supports everyone with their goals that they want to achieve which reflects positively on colleagues and patients. I am very lucky to be a part of the team.”
Championing Women Every Day
International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on how far we’ve come and look ahead to what’s still to be done. At AFG, we’re proud to be part of the journey, empowering, supporting, and celebrating women, not just today, but every single day.