2025 Emerging Leaders Program Cohort Set Sights on Big Goals
A group of fourteen, very enthusiastic, KINNECTers began their Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) journey together on 18 February in Brisbane with a day of guest speakers and thought-provoking sessions to introduce them to the content and mindset they’ll be exploring for the next 10 months.
Day one of this year’s program was filled with insightful discussions around what it means to be a leader. The group heard from Paul Gunther, Director of HTG (Helensvale Technology Group), and Brisbane Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy who generously shared their insights and experiences around leadership through their careers.
The day ended with an opportunity for the cohort to test their axe-throwing skills and a dinner to give the group time to reflect and get to know each other.
Our ELP Cohort’s Goals for 2025
We asked participants what they’re most looking forward to learning and what they hope to achieve through the ELP this year. Their answers spoke volumes about their personal and professional ambitions to build confidence and leadership skills, and their commitment to making KINNECT a leading occupational health provider.
“I’m excited to enhance my skills and knowledge of KINNECT, but most importantly to build the confidence that I can carry with me in both my personal and professional life.”
Dani Trewarn, Medical Support Officer
“I’m thrilled to be a part of ELP 2025 as I’m excited to challenge myself and continue to grow together with some of the fantastic members of this year’s cohort. Ultimately, I am hoping to refine my skills as a mentor, leader and communicator. Big thanks to KINNECT for continuing to innovate through programs like this.”
James Wrout, Lead Consultant & Osteopath
“Firstly, I hope to deepen my commitment to KINNECT’s goals. I feel this program will help me play a more integral role in delivering impactful results and driving team success by aligning my personal growth with KINNECT’s key focus areas for growth
Secondly, I hope the program will expand my career opportunities. Developing a strong leadership skillset will position me to take on greater responsibilities and explore new roles within the organisation as they arise.
I’m also hope to boost my confidence. As I grow through this program, I believe I’ll feel more prepared to navigate challenges, make decisions, and inspire others—qualities that are crucial for sustained career growth.”
Annabel Redman, Team Manager – Psychological & Vocational Rehabilitation Services
“My hope is to understand more context around our leadership approach through KINNECT, and build on my current experience,”
Thomas Beckman, Head of Growth & Partnerships
“During ELP I am hoping to gain a lot of new learnings around how successful businesses are structured/run and gain a knowledge-based mindset on how to personally and professionally excel in one.”
Terri Gardiner, Medical Support Officer
“I am honoured to have been selected for this year’s KINNECT Emerging Leaders Program, and I am particularly excited about the opportunity to learn from the diverse perspectives of my colleagues. I look forward to not only expanding my leadership skills but also building my confidence as I engage with and learn from others in this dynamic program.”
Suzanne Sakrzewski, Medical Support Officer
“I am looking forward to stepping away from wearing my clinical hat and taking a deep dive into high level leadership and business model development. I’m looking forward to the connections I’ll make and the personal growth I can apply to all areas of my life”.
Chantal Jephcote, Lead Consultant & Accredited Exercise Physiologist
“I’m excited to participate in KINNECT’s Emerging Leaders Program this year, as it offers an incredible opportunity to refine my leadership skills, strengthen my strategic thinking, and connect with other inspiring leaders across the organisation. I look forward to applying what I learn to empower my team, drive success within my clinic, and contribute to KINNECT’s ongoing growth and innovation.”
Kelly Salter, Team Manager & Exercise Physiologist
“I thoroughly enjoy my day-to-day role planning the support and initiatives KINNECT offer to both our staff and customers to meet our common health and recovery needs. I’m so excited to learn the principles that guide these initiatives, which will in turn make me a better leader to my team and project manager to our clients.”
Brett Heiner, Team Manager – Rockhampton, Gladstone, Bundaberg & Accredited Exercise Physiologist
“I am looking forward to developing my communication skills to be able to better support my team.”
Natassja Harris – Team Manager Newcastle & Physiotherapist
“Through ELP, I’m eager to challenge myself and enhance my business and leadership skills to better inspire and empower others. I look forward to strengthening my abilities, gaining insights into effective leadership, and making a meaningful impact in the workplace. Additionally, I’m excited to learn more about KINNECT as an organization and explore ways to drive positive change for both my peers and our clients.”
Milun Ball, Senior Consultant & Accredited Exercise Physiologist
“I am hoping that this program helps me sharpen my skills, expand my perspective and unlock new potential both personally and professionally.”
Hema Rampersad, Company Accountant
For more information about our Emerging Leaders Program, visit our Careers Centre.