For 26 years, Raechella Smith has been a dedicated staff of St John Ambulance Victoria. As a Customer Development Manager, she has not only helped businesses and communities gain vital first aid skills but has also witnessed firsthand the power of knowledge, confidence, and leadership, especially among women.

For Raechella, International Women’s Day is about more than just recognition. “It’s about highlighting the incredible work that women do, not only in business but also in the volunteer space. Whether they’re St John volunteers or part of other organisations, it’s important to shine a light on their contributions.”

A Career Built on Support and Growth

Throughout her time at St John, Raechella has always felt empowered as a woman in the workforce. She has been supported in her journey from a Customer Development Executive to her current leadership role. “I’ve always been respected, encouraged, and given the opportunities to grow. That support is invaluable.”

The Power of First Aid: A Moment That Defined Her

Last October, Raechella found herself in a moment that reinforced her belief in the importance of first aid. While celebrating her mother-in-law’s 90th birthday, a woman collapsed in the car park. A family member rushed in, asking if anyone knew how to use a defibrillator.

“All eyes turned to me,” she recalls. “I ran out, and as I approached, my sister-in-law stopped everyone, saying, ‘Let Raechella through, she knows what she’s doing.’”

Without hesitation, she took control of the situation. “The moment I said, ‘I know how to use a defib, the crowd stepped back, giving me space to act. I placed the pads on the patient and began CPR immediately. I knew exactly what to do because I had trained for it.”

Confidence Through Preparation

For Raechella, this experience reinforced the value of confidence, and how it stems from regular first aid training. “It’s just 2.5 hours out of your year, but that time builds the confidence to step forward and help when it truly matters.”

After the incident, Raechella reflected deeply on the experience. “I wondered if there was anything more I could have done. But in the end, I took action. I stepped in when no one else did. That’s what matters. The family knows that everything possible was done, and that gives them peace of mind.”

The Importance of Self-Care and Support

Despite her experience and training, the emotional weight of the event hit Raechella the next day. “I thought I’d be fine, but when it came time to go to work, I realised I needed support.”

With the encouragement of her husband, manager, and the responders who were on the scene, she took time to debrief and process the situation. “Talking about it with my loved ones and my team at St John helped immensely. It reminded me that self-care is just as important as stepping in to help others.”

A Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration

Raechella’s passion for first aid and leadership is deeply personal. Inspired by her mother, who was a St John volunteer when she was growing up, she has dedicated her career to supporting volunteers and ensuring businesses and event teams are equipped with life-saving skills.

“Seeing so many successful women within St John over the years has been truly inspiring,” she says. “When I first started, the CEO was a woman who had held other leadership roles. That showed me that women could thrive in this organisation.”

As she continues her journey at St John, Raechella remains committed to supporting and empowering others. “Women are leaders, caregivers, and change-makers. When we equip ourselves with the right skills, whether in first aid, leadership, or business, we gain the confidence to step up and make a difference.”

Her message this International Women’s Day is clear: “Take every opportunity to learn, grow, and lead. You never know when your knowledge and confidence will save a life.”