Women make up 73% of NT Health's workforce, and this International Women's Day, we're celebrating their dedication, impact and drive to make a difference.
Here are some of the incredible women kicking goals in their careers, their communities and beyond.
Kassandra Waia
Medical student on the clock, musician and performer off the clock
With a background in nursing, Kassandra Waia decided to pursue medicine as a way to further support patients through their healthcare and healing journeys.
She is currently completing her Doctor of Medicine at Flinders University, supported through NT Health's Aboriginal Cadetship Program. One day she hopes to work as a rural generalist in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Outside of work and study, Kassandra is a passionate singer, songwriter and is learning guitar.
'Music is deeply connected to my identity, grounding me spiritually and culturally while allowing me to share stories and lived experiences that inspire connection and resilience,' said Kass.
'Being an Aboriginal cadet represents striving to make a difference, achieving goals and becoming a better version of myself while giving back to communities.'
Tash Tile
Doctor on the clock, ultramarathon trail runner off the clock
Tash Tile was drawn to medicine through a genuine interest in the human body and her love of working with people. In the emergency department (ED), no 2 days are the same. She enjoys meeting people from diverse backgrounds and supporting them through some of their most challenging moments.
'A few years ago, I turned to trail running as a way to challenge myself beyond the hospital. I set the fastest known time running the Camino de Santiago unsupported, raising $28,000 for Remote Laundries along the way. Since then, I've completed the 128km West Macs Monster on the beautiful Larapinta Trail, finishing second,' said Tash.
'Whether in ED or on the trails, I'm driven by pushing boundaries, resilience, and the opportunity to make a positive impact.'
Claudia Hood
Nurse on the clock, surf lifesaver off the clock
Claudia Hood was inspired to study nursing after working in a nursing home as a teenager, where she enjoyed sharing meaningful moments with the residents and hearing their stories.
'People are complex and interesting, and the mental health and alcohol space is an area where stigma is common, even though it affects people from all walks of life,' said Claudia.
'I'm drawn to the challenge of working at the intersection of mental health, substance use, culture, identity, and social factors, and understanding the different layers that shape someone's experience. I like meeting people where they're at and supporting them in a way that is non‑judgemental, respectful, and person‑centred.'
Claudia says the most rewarding part of her job is supporting people during some of their most vulnerable moments. 'I learn from clients every day, and I'm often inspired by their resilience and humour.'
Outside of work, Claudia volunteers at her local Surf Life Saving Club. 'I didn't realise surf lifesaving existed in the NT until friends encouraged me to join, and I've had so much fun since. It's a great community, it keeps me active, and we all share a love for the ocean.'
Jo Nixon
Audiologist on the clock, knitting extraordinaire off the clock
For Jo Nixon, a career in audiology in the Red Centre wasn't initially part of the plan. After graduating, Jo thought she'd give Central Australia a go for a couple of years. 35 years later, she's still there and loving it.
'I love working with clients, finding out their stories, helping them where I can and making them smile and feel better about their ears,' said Jo.
She loves audiology but she also has a passion for beanies. 30 years ago, Jo was one of the founding members of the Alice Springs Beanie Festival and is still the festival's chief beaniologist.
A self-confessed beanie addict, Jo says ears and beanies are a great combo!
'The Beanie Festival started as a bit of fun and is now a big woolly monster. I have loved walking alongside it, learning skills I would never have dreamt of as an audiologist - admin, grant writing, budgeting, meeting Ministers and other famous people, curating shows, managing 7,000 beanies and 650 makers, crowd control, new artist endeavours, touring around Australia. It's been a great experience, full of joy and magic.'
