Spomenka Matic – Wellness Advisor - Punurunha Village

At Sodexo, our people remind us every day that leadership isn’t always about titles or positions; sometimes, it’s about courage, vulnerability, and the willingness to start conversations that others are afraid to have.  For Spomenka Matic, Wellness Advisor at Rio Tinto Iron Ore’s Punurunha Village, mental health isn’t a side note to her role; it’s the heartbeat of everything she does.  Her journey is proof that when you bring openness and humanity into the workplace, you can change lives.

Adjusting to FIFO life can be a daunting experience for many, filled with uncertainty, preconceived ideas, and the challenge of stepping into a completely new environment.  When Spomenka joined Sodexo as a Wellness Advisor, she admits she was nervous.

“I’d heard so many negative stories about FIFO.  I remember sitting at the airport asking myself, ‘What are you doing?’ However, once I arrived, it felt meant to be.  Within a week, I had goals and ideas coming out of my head.  I remember finishing my first swing thinking, ‘I’m not ready to go home.  I have so much more to do here.’”

Her first act onsite was to lead with vulnerability.

“At my very first Pre-Start meeting, I told everyone, ‘It’s my first time doing FIFO. I’m new here.’  People were so supportive.  I realised if I shared my own story, maybe it would give others the courage to do the same.”