New business blooms in Playford

As a child in a Tanzanian refugee camp, Shaona witnessed many struggles. Now, she is on a mission to help those in need.

Shaona and her family settled in Playford in 2012. After studying nursing and gaining accolades at the SA and Australian Vocational Training Awards, Shaona’s passion for healthcare led her to start a business.

In July 2021, Shaona launched Simaru True Care, a community led business that caters for the needs of people living with disability.

Today, Simaru True Care has teams all over Adelaide and assists clients throughout the northern suburbs and beyond.

Independence is a crucial part of health care, according to Shaona.

“Coming to Australia, I worked as a nurse for many years, and I came across a lot of patients in hospital that didn’t need to be there if they could access proper care at home,” she said.

“I wanted to start something in Australia to make a change.”

Shaona received pivotal support from the business services provided by the Stretton Centre. The Stretton Centre provides resources, connections and information to help existing or prospective City of Playford businesses plan, start and grow.

“I remember when I started, I reached out to Mike [Business Support Officer] at the Stretton Centre. He was very helpful. He recommended for me to attend their NDIS networking events, and I built great connections and professional relationships because of that.”

Shaona has a vision to grow Simaru True Care to also offer an inclusive nursing home that supports people from diverse backgrounds. “My biggest goal is to see how Simaru can be a service provider as well as an aged care home… and a diverse one, because a lot of people from migrant backgrounds aren’t getting the nutrition they require from our aged care homes. If you are used to one type of meal your whole life, imagine if suddenly that changes to fish and chips – that’s really hard for a lot of people.”

For Shaona, staying positive and knowing there is support available is vital for the ongoing success of her business.

“You need to stay passionate and remember why you started the business and reach out for support. Visit your council and ask for assistance. You are not alone.”

The Stretton Centre is at 307 Peachey Road, Munno Para. Visit strettoncentre.com.au or phone 8254 4666.