Holyoake is proud to share that Steve Papadopoulos, State Prevention Services Manager, has been appointed to the National Drug Research Institute (NDRI) Advisory Board in a Consumer Representation capacity.
Steve commenced employment in the Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) sector 10 years ago, having had over 20 years of lived and life experience in both AOD and mental health related trauma.
Following his initial appointment at Holyoake within the Integrated Support team, Steve has continued to further his personal and professional growth, recently being promoted to Prevention Services Manager.
Steve’s appointment to the NDRI Advisory Board will add a new layer of wisdom and drive to guide NDRI in holistically improving lives.
“These past ten years have given me a deeper appreciation for the enduring human spirit. There is real strength in vulnerability, and the ability to share that safely with another individual is a ‘Life Experience’ in itself. Turning really negative experiences into positive behaviours and values, helps and supports the development of others.”
NDRI Director Prof Simon Lenton commented, “An integral part of Australia’s National Drug Strategy, NDRI conducts and disseminates research that supports evidence informed policy and practice to prevent and minimise alcohol and other drug-related health, social, cultural and economic harms.
“The Advisory Board identified the value that Steve could bring through his ability to identify, address, and manage the many challenges that come with working with others’ shared but individual trauma experiences. His insight to the harms and risks associated with alcohol and other drugs, both within and out of a treatment setting, will make an important contribution to the work of our Institute.”
