Kim’s strength in adversity shines at Mother’s Day run
Content warning: the following story references cancer. Some readers may find the topic sensitive.
- While undertaking Kinetic’s inaugural Future CEO program, Kim Pham faced the daunting reality of a cancer diagnosis
- It marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey that culminated in a Mother’s Day charity run at the weekend
- Kim hopes her story will inspire others facing adversity to seek support
Last year, Kim Pham, one of Kinetic’s first participants in its Future CEO program, faced the daunting reality of a Stage 1 ovarian cancer diagnosis.
What followed was a whirlwind of treatments as she navigated her way through radiation therapy and surgical procedures, but she was determined to conquer her illness.
Supported by her family, friends and colleagues, in April Kim received the news they had all hoped for. The cancer had been successfully removed.
During this time, Kim found herself grappling not only with health concerns but also with questions about her career.
“When I received the diagnosis, my first call was to Graham,” she said. Graham Smith is Kinetic’s Executive General Manager – Southern.
“I’m in a new program, I’m one of two people in it, and I was asking myself what this would all mean for my future.”
Colleagues including Graham and Kinetic’s Managing Director for Australia, Matt Campbell, would become a source of unyielding support.
“Graham was always there to talk to and support me as I continued learning through the program while juggling my treatment. It’s genuine support I’ve not had before.”
Kim says she was reluctant to share her story at first, but realised sharing her vulnerability was an opportunity to demonstrate leadership.
“It was naturally an incredibly challenging period for me, but being open and honest is the type of person I want to be as a leader, and hopefully that can inspire others.”
Mr Campbell said Kinetic had thrown its full support behind Kim who was an inspiration to everyone around her.
“Her determination and resilience are truly inspiring and it probably explains how she landed herself in our Future CEO program in the first place,” he said.
“Every year as part of our support for BCNA we hear from people like Kim, whose personal experiences or connections with others facing cancer drive our commitment to raising awareness and funds.
“We admire these people within our team who are willing to share their stories but also understand that these experiences impact different people in different ways.
“What’s important is we’re there to support one another. We are a people business who care about those around us, whether that’s in the workplace or the communities we serve.”
Kim just completed her first charity run since overcoming cancer, finishing the Mother’s Day Classic in Melbourne in support of breast and ovarian cancer research.
Colleagues supported her from the sidelines at the event, and that support continues as she shares her personal story.
As part of the Future CEO program, Kim is currently on a placement within the company’s Melbourne operation which is responsible for delivering a third of the city’s public transport network.
The Future CEO initiative is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of female leadership and transforming gender balance in transport and the broader corporate community.
Further enquiries
Meghan Hope
Communications Specialist
(+61) 456006517
meghan.hope@wearekinetic.com