Team Story
During her younger years, Ainslie Hunt spent nine years representing Australia as a baton twirler, an experience that shaped her discipline, resilience and instinct for lifting others up. These super powers anchor her role today in People and Culture. Ainslie tells the story…
Ainslie being presented by CEO Cathy
I ended up at the twirling world championships, because someone tapped me on the shoulder and said, “You’re ready to go and represent Australia.” The first time I was like a deer in headlights, and it was pretty daunting as a teenager to fly across the other side of the world.
“The biggest thing I learned competing early is the power of a positive outlook. There is no space for negativity, and my pet peeve is the glass half empty mindset. I continue to share and live this philosophy with my own family, at work and with the kids I coach.”
Ainslie’s heart for people, along with a connection to the disability sector, is what naturally led her to LMW.
I originally came to help a friend in payroll, just for a week or so during Covid. Then a role opened up in People and Culture that really aligned.
Before joining LMW I knew a little bit about the disability sector, because my son has hypertonic cerebral palsy. I know how overwhelming the NDIS can feel and understand a participant’s perspective. If you keep people at the forefront of everything, they always feel supported. Whether they’re ready for a decision or not, you can hold their hand through it, and that’s all you can do.
One of her proudest achievements is the introduction of a new trainee program.
We’ve had two trainees so far, and both are still here loving their roles. Seeing them succeed, and their trainee coat fall away along with any preconceptions from their peers has been really special.
“Receiving the Milena Morrow employee of the year award has been very, very humbling and I was astounded. You’re only as good as the people you work with, so it was really nice to celebrate with the team.”
It says a lot about our culture that quite a few people find their way back to work here, even for a short time, and I really love that. Work must fill your bucket, and I always want our team to feel heard and supported.
Thanks Ainslie, for the impact you make every day.
An award that honors the late Milena Morrow, a founding Member, Chair, and advocate whose passion and dedication left a special impact.
This annual award recognises a team member who embodies Milena’s spirit and exemplifies our values in everything they do.
