Karina Bell

Karina Bell

  • Cert IV Employment Services
  • Cert IV Photography
  • Divemaster – Padi SCUBA

Experience

have over 12 years’ experience in the social services sector – including Human Services, Employment Services, Youth and Family Support and Disability Support.

My work history in these fields were opportunities that presented to me, rather than me following a qualifications path that led to working in these fields. In my mid 20’s I found myself being offered a role within the Employment sector, which quickly led from basic junior admin, to Site Manager of an employment office, within a few short years. I found myself relishing opportunities to help clients move from their current space of often undervaluing themselves and getting weighed down by systematic processes, to elevating themselves to a place of identifying what goals they would like to set and subsequently supporting these clients to reach their full potential, or the best version that they were capable of at any given time.

Passions

Family is everything to me. I don’t consider myself a lucky person, more so I have been blessed beyond measure. I have a young family, all now going to school and each one thriving and joyous in their own personal worlds. My childhood was one of absolute simplistic contentment, and I now savour being able to provide and focus on the simple things in life with my own children. Family holidays, day adventures and lots of fun in the sun and the water are our typical go to activities. And playing football! (soccer).

Being active and out in nature are essential to me maintaining my mental health and physical health balance. I love playing sport, gardening, riding, hiking. I’ve spent many years travelling and living out my passions of snowboarding and scuba diving. With my children now a little older, I’m ready to literally dive back into both!

I am passionate advocate for justice, truth and honestly and I find it deeply rewarding to support others who have very real struggles, in finding their own truth and owning their future directions.

And I love music! Listening, playing guitar and singing – although I’m tone deaf. Watch this space – you may inadvertently find me singing to you during meetings or interviews.

What others admire about me

I am very often complimented on being easy going, not easily caught up in drama, genuinely happy and friendly, with a let’s just get the task done focus.
I am fiercely loyal and I’m always true to my word.

As a team player, I pride myself on being honest, empathetic, and non-judgmental, focusing on fostering trust and collaboration in every situation. I’m not afraid to put in the hard work and embracing challenges with a hands-on approach, demonstrating unwavering dedication to supporting others in enhancing and enriching their own lives.

What is important to me

Being present in living each day and being conscious and grateful for each breath is the most important thing to me. Every decision I make stems from the simplicity of appreciating my life. I’m learning to put myself as my top priority to ensure my mental health and physical health are in balance, and the rest will follow without resentment.

In employment situations, I work most efficiently when I feel safe, valued, heard and supported by those around me. Being non-judgemental is a natural trait of mine and I give honour in respecting others personal opinions and choices.

What others need to know to support me

work efficiently and confidently when I am set to task and know what I need to achieve within timeframes. I like to feel ahead of the game and understand my clients’ rights and responsibilities when supporting them with their plans and goals for their future.

I am acutely aware and respectful of others time and energy and it can be a downfall of mine that I don’t seek enough support from colleagues when I need it, also often assuming that I may be putting others out. This is especially true when learning new skills.

I find myself very productive earlier in the day with (sometimes mundane) tasks of administration, researching, reporting, etc. I come to life later in the day ready to connect with others, reflect on the productivity of the morning and reflect on the bigger picture of a clients objective and plans. I then find myself with a clear head to have flexibility to change things that I have since identified, that may not be the best path forward.

I value messages and emails over a phone call as I like to have a clear, composed and focused mind to respond properly. By having the time to process and craft a thoughtful reply, I feel more confident in providing the best possible response, without the pressure of needing to react quickly in the moment. This approach allows me to communicate more clearly and effectively, aligning with my desire to ensure that my interactions are well-considered and meaningful.

Where We Support

Inclusion Tree are a team of Disability Supporters who work with participants all across Australia through virtual and in-person means.

Talk to us about how we can best support you.