SMHS’ Nola Naylor recognised for work improving outcomes for Aboriginal people
South Metropolitan Health Service (SMHS) Director Aboriginal Health Strategy, Nola Naylor, has made strides to engage and empower our workforce to improve outcomes for Aboriginal people in our community.
An outstanding leader and mentor who embodies cultural respect and models these behaviours in her daily work, Nola led the implementation of the SMHS Aboriginal Health Strategy and is a passionate advocate for increasing Aboriginal representation in the SMHS workforce.
She was also instrumental in making Aboriginal health everyone’s business at SMHS through the Aboriginal Health Champions program, which aims to increase the cultural understanding of non-Aboriginal staff.
Her in-depth knowledge of the spiritual, cultural and health needs of Aboriginal people means Nola plays an integral role for in creating a positive hospital experience by supporting, caring and guiding Aboriginal patients who are away from home and feel disconnected from family.
On Thursday 20 October 2022, Nola was recognised for her contribution to improved patient outcomes, taking home the South Metropolitan Health Service Board Award at the 2022 SMHS Excellence Awards.
Nola explained throughout her career she has seen healthcare outcomes for Aboriginal people come a long way and is very proud to play a role in this for our community.
“I have seen so much change for Aboriginal people over the years and it really gives me hope for the coming years and future generations – things are only getting better,” Nola said.
“While I am proud to have helped drive this change, it’s a huge team and community effort, and I couldn’t have done it alone.
“I am so grateful to my colleagues in Aboriginal Health Strategy and all the people throughout SMHS who are working to close the healthcare gap – thank you.
“I am truly honoured that mine and my team’s work has been recognised with this award, especially among the other incredible people and work being done at SMHS.”
SMHS Chief Executive Paul Forden said he is continually impressed by the high calibre projects, teams and individuals who are in the running at the SMHS Excellence Awards every year.
“We are privileged at SMHS to have a cohort of staff and volunteers who are so passionate and committed to further improving the patient outcomes for our community,” Paul said.
“Congratulations and thank you to all the winners, finalists and nominees.”
Read more about our finalists and winners.
