This March, we’re celebrating GURL PWR – Grow. Unite. Rise. Lead. across Sodexo Australia. Throughout the month, we’re spotlighting the women who embody this spirit — those who follow non-linear paths, act with courage, break barriers, and inspire those around them.  

We call them our Trailblazers.

For many years, Ronell built a meaningful career in aged care. She loved the work because she has a natural passion for helping people. Caring for others gave her a strong sense of purpose. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ronell felt a strong urge to challenge herself.

She wanted to step outside her comfort zone out of her comfort zone and explore a different way of working. This drive for personal growth led her to the mining industry. It was a significant shift, but it gave her the exact opportunity she was looking for to develop new skills and push her boundaries.

When her initial contract concluded, Ronell was offered the chance to remain with Sodexo. She saw this as the perfect opportunity to continue the journey she had bravely started. Sodexo encourages our people to grow, offering pathways into health and safety and management training. For Ronell, this meant feeling genuinely supported and valued as she navigated her new career path.

Not Limited: Embracing Variety and Overcoming Challenges

Today, the best part of Ronell’s job is the sheer variety of her daily tasks and the deep sense of purpose she finds in her role. No two days are ever the same.

On any given day, you might find Ronell driving the site bus, assisting with ground handling tasks at the airport, transporting passengers, or helping with cleaning and village operations. She thrives on staying active and engaged. She takes immense pride in contributing to a team that ensures everything runs smoothly behind the scenes, delivering operational excellence and creating a welcoming community for our residents.

Transitioning into this environment was not without its hurdles. Moving from aged care into a highly physical, male-dominated mining environment was a significant adjustment. It took time for Ronell to build her confidence and find her rightful place in the team.

She faced practical challenges, too. On a lighter note, she admits that even simple tasks like washing the large site bus can be a hurdle when you are not very tall! But Ronell’s approach is simple: adapt, find solutions, and never let anything stand in your way. Her hands-on dedication proves that our capabilities are never limited by our background or physical stature. 

Challenges will always arise, but they shape you into a stronger, more capable person.

Ask questions: Never be afraid to speak up. There is no such thing as a silly question, and your managers and team are there to support and guide you.

Know your worth: Remain confident, stand your ground, and recognise the immense value you bring to the table.

Ronell’s story is a powerful reminder that we are just as capable and have so much to contribute to this industry. Looking back, she views her move from aged care to mining as one of the best decisions she has ever made. It challenged her, rewarded her, and helped her grow both personally and professionally.

Sodexo’s inclusive culture allows employees to bring their whole selves to work. Ronell’s journey perfectly captures this ethos. She leads with empathy, tackles challenges head-on, and ensures our communities thrive.

If you are looking to challenge yourself and build a career with purpose, explore our current opportunities and discover how you can become a Trailblazer, too.