Recognition that lasts: Inside the 40 Under 40 network
More than a trophy, InDaily’s 40 Under 40 Awards open doors to collaboration, influence and lifelong professional connection – as Lutheran Homes Group alumni Tim Chia and Kristian Roocke can attest.
When Lutheran Homes Group chief executive officer Tim Chia nominated Kristian Roocke for the InDaily 40 Under 40 Awards, it was an act of recognition grounded in respect – and informed by experience.
“I nominated Kristian because he is a great example of a young South Australian leader who is driven to achieve not only personal success, but also to better the lives of others, whether that be through the provision of care and accommodation for the ageing or by creating employment opportunities more broadly across our state,” Chia says.
As an alumnus of the InDaily 40 Under 40 Awards, Chia understands firsthand the power of a nomination – not just as recognition of past achievement, but as a catalyst for new connections, credibility and opportunity. That perspective made the decision to put Roocke’s name forward a considered one.
For Roocke, chief operating officer at Lutheran Homes Group, the nomination was both unexpected and affirming.
“I was fortunate to be nominated by Tim for the 40 Under 40 program last year,” he says. “I hadn’t seriously considered putting myself forward this early in my career. Being nominated by someone whose judgement I respect made it feel both meaningful and timely, and it encouraged me to reflect on the progress made so far and the impact still to come.”
That opportunity to pause and reflect is part of what makes the awards resonate. Leadership, particularly in demanding sectors such as aged care and community services, rarely leaves much room to step back and take stock. The nomination process itself can prompt a deeper appreciation of impact – not just for the individual, but for the teams and communities around them.
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“From the outset, the experience was thoughtfully curated,” Roocke says. “The lead-up included regular engagement with the InDaily team and a collaborative photoshoot that created early opportunities to connect with fellow finalists. In that sense, the experience exceeded expectations by creating a connection as much as a celebration.
“Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the awards night due to unforeseen work commitments. However, I had many texts and conversations after the awards about how great the night was.”
What has stayed with Roocke most is the sense of belonging to a broader community of emerging leaders.
“I underestimated both the reach and the credibility of the 40 Under 40 network,” he says. “Participation has opened doors to conversations, collaborations, and relationships that would otherwise have taken years to cultivate.
“It has also broadened my perspective on South Australia’s economic and social landscape. Working primarily within a defined sector can narrow focus; this experience reinforced just how much innovation and leadership are occurring across industries, and how valuable cross-sector thinking can be.”
The program’s ongoing events and alumni engagement have ensured the experience continues well beyond a single announcement. “Events hosted across venues such as Parliament House, Government House and leading professional firms have kept the network relevant and valuable well beyond the announcement,” Roocke says.
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Chia has also experienced that enduring value. “I was nominated by a member of my team during my time as chief operating officer at a previous organisation, where I had played an instrumental role in significant developments and acquisition initiatives,” he says.
“As it was the inaugural year of the awards, I didn’t have any defined expectations, but I have very much enjoyed being involved in the 40 Under 40 program over the years.
“Given the 40 Under 40 program has grown in prominence since the inaugural year, it is often brought up in conversation in my personal and professional dealings, and it remains something that I am very proud of.
“Participating in the awards has supported both my personal and professional development through ongoing alumni events and networking opportunities. These connections have enabled me to engage with leaders across various sectors, fostering shared learning and meaningful professional growth.”
As nominations open for this year’s awards, both leaders are keenly aware that many high achievers hesitate when it comes to recognition – particularly self-nomination.
“There is a tendency for people to shy away from recognition,” Chia says, “but I would encourage people to move beyond this if they believe that they, or someone else, has made a meaningful and significant contribution to our state, as involvement with the 40 Under 40 program really does broaden access to networks, knowledge and opportunities.”
Roocke’s advice is equally direct. “What have you got to lose? There is very little downside and significant upside. Whether you are recognising someone else’s contribution or acknowledging your own achievements, participation places you in a conversation that extends well beyond the awards night. It’s an opportunity to connect, reflect and expand your influence.”
For South Australia’s emerging leaders, the message is simple: back your peers, back yourself – and be part of a community that celebrates impact.
Nominations for the 40 Under 40 Awards close on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Nominate someone or submit you application today.
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