When Sue-Ann joined St John Ambulance Victoria four months ago as a Customer Experience Agent, she wasn't simply looking for another job. She was looking for purpose.

After spending seven years with World Vision Australia, Sue-Ann found herself searching for an organisation where she could continue making a meaningful impact. For her, St John was a natural fit.

"St John is one of the largest not-for-profit organisations dedicated to saving lives, and that's why I'm here," she says.

Today, Sue-Ann brings decades of customer service and relationship management experience to the Customer Service team, helping people access the training and support they need to feel confident in an emergency.

But her story extends far beyond her role at St John.

A Life Driven by Purpose

Throughout her career, Sue-Ann has been drawn to organisations that make a difference.

"Whether it was helping children, supporting communities experiencing poverty, or assisting people in crisis, I've always wanted my work to contribute to something bigger than myself."

That commitment to helping others aligns perfectly with St John's mission to build safer and more resilient communities.

For Sue-Ann, every customer interaction matters.

"People call us because they need help, information or support. Sometimes they're frustrated, sometimes they feel lost. My role is to listen carefully, empathise and help them find solutions."

She believes great customer service is about more than answering questions.

"It's about making people feel heard, respected and cared for. When someone finishes a conversation knowing that we've genuinely listened, that's a positive outcome."

From Malaysia to Australian Television

Born and raised in northern Malaysia, Sue-Ann arrived in Australia in the 1980s and has built a remarkable life through resilience, determination and a willingness to embrace new opportunities.

One of her proudest achievements came after deciding to pursue a childhood dream.

"I've always wanted to be on television," she says with a smile.

That dream became reality in 2020 when Sue-Ann was selected to compete on My Kitchen Rules.

Cooking has always been her passion, inspired by the recipes and traditions passed down by her late mother.

"I love cooking real, homely food for family and friends. It's something that brings me joy and helps me through life's challenges."

The experience of appearing on a national television show was both exciting and humbling.

"Most people only see what's on screen, but there are hundreds of people behind the scenes making it happen. The experience taught me a lot about hard work, teamwork and believing in yourself."

Although she didn't take home the trophy, Sue-Ann considers the experience a success because she stepped outside her comfort zone and followed a lifelong dream.

"Dreams really do come true."

Finding Strength Through Challenges

Sue-Ann speaks openly about the challenges many people face, including loneliness, life changes and adversity.

Her advice is simple: stay connected to the things that bring you joy.

For her, that means cooking, walking, meditation, tennis and sharing her knowledge through community cooking demonstrations.

"I believe self-care is incredibly important. You need to find things that energise you and make you happy."

She also believes learning should never stop, regardless of age or stage of life.

"Even now, I'm still learning. Don't give up. Keep moving forward."

Why St John Feels Like Home

Having previously worked in the airline industry with Singapore Airlines and Malaysia Airlines, Sue-Ann has long understood the importance of safety, care and helping others.

She also completed first aid training throughout her career, giving her a deep appreciation for the life-saving skills St John teaches every day.

"I think everyone should learn first aid. I've seen situations where people could have been helped if someone had known what to do."

That belief reinforces her sense of purpose at St John.

"When we help someone enrol in training or answer their questions, we're doing more than providing customer service. We're helping prepare people to save lives."

It's this connection between her work and the broader mission that motivates her every day.

"We all play a part. Whether you're a trainer, paramedic, volunteer or customer service team member, we're all working together to help communities prepare, respond and save lives."

Sue-Ann's Advice for Future Team Members

For anyone considering a career with St John Ambulance Victoria, Sue-Ann has a simple message:

"You've got to have passion in what you do. You need to love your work and feel connected to a meaningful purpose."

She believes St John is the perfect place for people who genuinely care about helping others.

"If you have a love for people, respect for individuals and a desire to make a difference, this is the place to be."

And if her own journey teaches us anything, it's that purpose and passion can take you further than you ever imagined.

Whether helping customers, supporting communities or pursuing a childhood dream on national television, Sue-Ann shows that it's never too late to make a difference, keep learning and follow your ambitions.

After all, as Sue-Ann says: "Don't give up. Always move forward."