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Haymarket’s hero
“Nothing is more motivating than being part of a worthwhile cause” – Valda Allen
It’s a rare thing for a person to come out of retirement and take on the challenge of leading an organisation through accreditation, but for Valda Allen, it was an easy decision to join the team at the Haymarket Foundation over 15 years ago.
Valda grew up in country NSW and had never seen the ocean until she moved to Sydney as a young nurse at 18. Later, she worked in the UK and Denmark, gaining experience in the emerging clinical specialties and bringing back invaluable knowledge to hospitals in Sydney. Valda subsequently established post-registration nursing courses in various clinical specialties and played a significant role in the establishment of a Clinical Career Path for registered nurses.
As the Quality Coordinator for The Haymarket Foundation these last 15+ years, Valda has brought her lifetime of experience to the organisation and made a huge impact. During the challenging times of COVID-19 and lockdowns, Valda was the leading force ensuring the health and well-being of our residents and staff was paramount.
Over this period, Valda also successfully led Haymarket through accreditation with the Australian Council of Health Care Standards. Her stellar work resulted in Haymarket being awarded an “Extensive Achievement” rating. The rating was one of the first times a non-government organisation had ever achieved the rating.
“I can not emphasise how exceptional is this rating, for any organisation” said Valda, in response to the recognition.
It’s this skill, tenacity, and experience that led to Valda receiving the 2023 Westfield Sydney Local Hero Award for her tireless dedication and service to people in Sydney experiencing complex homelessness.
“Nothing is more motivating than being part of a worthwhile cause,” Valda said upon winning the award.
Valda’s win secured $20,000 for The Haymarket Foundation – and we thank her so much for everything she has contributed towards our community.
Read more stories like this in the Haymarket Foundation 2024 Annual Report.