In a heartfelt moment at the 2025 Asuria Employer Awards, Harper Dickson was named the winner of the Outstanding Achiever Award. This category celebrates Asuria participants who, against considerable odds, secure employment with a partner employer and transform their lives in the process.
At just 19, Harper—a proud First Nations man—turned adversity into opportunity, proving that resilience and support can pave the way to a brighter future.
Yet, since joining Asuria’s Workforce Australia program in October 2023, Harper’s determination has shone through. With Asuria’s guidance, he tackled each hurdle that came his way, from accessing community transport, to resolving legal issues, and securing vital ID documents like his birth certificate.
Training in Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) and Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) sharpened his skills, setting the stage for a life-changing break.
That break came in April 2024, when Harper began work as a Trainee Food and Beverage Attendant with Voyages Tourism at Ayers Rock, NT, an opportunity made possible through Asuria’s partnership with this Indigenous-focused employer.
Asuria helped to smooth the way, funding Harper’s plane ticket and providing employment support, while Voyages stepped up with onsite housing, transport to work, and a hospitality traineeship.
They even offered medical and mental health assistance, ensuring Harper could thrive. The impact has been nothing short of transformative.
Late last year, Harper hit his 24-week employment milestone. Financially stable for the first time in his life, Harper bought a motorbike and a car, earning his P-plates and newfound independence.
What’s truly remarkable is Harper’s heart. Not content to keep this gift to himself, he’s referred a peer from Albury to Voyages, sharing the opportunity that changed his life. It’s a full-circle moment for someone who once felt adrift, now anchored by purpose and community. The judges at the Asuria Employer Awards were moved, calling him “a role model” who “overcame so many hurdles with fortitude,” inspiring others to follow in his path.
From all of us at Asuria, congratulations to Harper Dickson—our 2025 Outstanding Achiever. We’re proud to stand with you as you chase your dreams, proving that from the toughest starts come the most inspiring successes.