Kokatha Aboriginal Corporation’s Executive Assistant to CEO & Board Secretary Kathryn Emmett, has been honoured with the Community Engagement and Advocacy Award through the Australian Institute of Office Professionals (AIOP).
Kathyrn received the award alongside Mel RotheCox, from Yamagigu Consulting, for their work as co-founders of the Adelaide Executive Assistant Influencer Network (AEAIN).
In less than three years, AEAIN has grown from 30 contacts to over 250 members across South Australia and has become a powerful platform for connection, mentorship, and advocacy for Administrative Professionals, elevating the visibility and value of the profession.
Over the past year alone, AEAIN has delivered:
◾Signature events like the Aurora Skydeck Networking Night and Admin Professionals Day at Sofitel, combining professional development with celebration.
◾Monthly Connection Lunches that foster informal peer support and genuine relationships.
◾The AEAIN Social Series, launched to increase accessibility for regional members.
◾The heartfelt Walk for Trudy campaign, raising over $7,000 for Dementia Australia and Memory Lane Café in honour of AEAIN co-founder Trudy Robb.
◾Ongoing mentorship and peer support, helping members grow in confidence and career direction.
◾A strong focus on inclusive networking, with practical tools to help members build lasting professional relationships.
Kathryn’s work with AEAIN exemplifies leadership driven by compassion, creativity, and community.
Her efforts continue to shape a more connected and empowered future for administrative professionals across the State.
All three South Australian winners recognised at the AIOP awards are employed at Indigenous organisations:
◾Kokatha Aboriginal Corporation
◾Yamagigu Consulting
◾KWY Aboriginal Corporation
This collective achievement highlights the strength, diversity, and impact of South Australian professionals on the national stage.
Please join us in congratulating Kathryn on this well-deserved recognition!
Pictured l. to r. — Stevie Weine (KWY Aboriginal Corporation) Kathryn Emmett and Mel RotheCox (Yamagigu).