2024 Women to Watch
This year we showcase over 80 South Australian women to watch throughout the year. From business, to careers, arts to science. This year’s selected women highlight the depth and diversity of the women in our state and also the vast array of opportunities to develop a business or career in South Australia. Find our more about our inaugural Women to Watch initiative here.
I’m Maria Latemore, better known as Mav, I’m the Director and founder of Podiatry Services SA, with a profound passion for my podiatry profession. With over 20 years of experience in the field, I have held various leadership positions, including overseeing podiatry services across 7 country locations, serving as a Clinical Advisor in a metro public sector organisation, and working as a WorkCover Podiatry Consultant. These roles have honed my expertise in clinical practice and corporate governance. Committed to providing hands-on patient care, I actively maintain a clinical podiatry role to remain abreast with evolving healthcare standards. My work extends to diverse community groups, enriching my understanding of healthcare needs and promoting equity in service delivery. Specialising in complex foot conditions, NDIS, and Home Care services, my commitment lies in enhancing mobility and alleviating pain for patients. Drawing on my clinical experience, I identify gaps in care delivery, leading to the establishment of a specialised service offering medical-grade products to meet specific patient needs.
Beyond my clinical practice responsibilities, I take pride and am deeply committed to fostering professional growth of my team by actively assisting them to in developing their skills. In addition I oversee the management of the Locum services and this pivotal role ensures that the community receives timely and effective podiatry care, addressing critical gaps in service provision.
Furthermore, my dedication to advancing the field of podiatry extends to my active involvement in professional advocacy efforts. As a Board member of the Australian Podiatry Association, I advocate tirelessly for the recognition and advancement of podiatry as an indispensable component of the healthcare landscape, championing initiatives that elevate the status and importance of podiatric services in the broader healthcare sector.
// Favourite inspirational quote
Killing Time Murders Opportunities
// Let’s get to know you
I earned my Bachelor of Podiatry from UniSA in 1999, marking the inception of my career dedicated to serving rural communities. Starting at Country Health SA at the age of 21, I conducted outreach clinics across SA, delivering essential podiatric care to communities. What began as a one-year commitment evolved into an eight-year tenure, culminating in my promotion to Regional Senior Podiatrist overseeing services at two major country hospitals and surrounding towns.
In addition to my public health role, I established a rural private practice and volunteered at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, providing podiatry services to elite athletes, including being the sole podiatrist at the women’s marathon. Fluent in Greek, I also served as an interpreter, facilitating seamless communication to ensure athletes received optimal care. Transitioning to the position of Clinical Advisor Podiatrist in Adelaide in 2009, I continued to manage the rural private practice, expanding podiatric services and showcasing my business acumen. Recognising gaps in metropolitan community care, I relocated the rural practice to Adelaide, and, during maternity leave, I initiated an all-inclusive podiatry service model.
Driven by a passion for innovation, in 2013, I acquired an established Podiatry Clinic in Plympton, aiming to revolutionise the traditional private podiatry business model. Drawing on my extensive community service background, in-depth knowledge of government funding structures, and a strong work ethic instilled by my parents, I founded a pioneering business dedicated to providing tailored high-quality care to the elderly and disability community through in-home services and the supply of medical-grade products.
As the Director of Podiatry Services SA, I take pride in leading a team that innovates to meet market demands, delivering exceptional podiatry care and expanding the role of podiatry. Outside of work, I find joy in cooking, hosting gatherings, and cherishing moments with my family, including my husband and two energetic boys.
// What are you most looking forward to in 2024?
In 2024, I am most looking forward to the continued growth and evolution of our podiatry business. The prospect of further expanding our team, enhancing our facility, and delivering exceptional care to our patients excites me the most. I am eager to see the positive impact we can make in the healthcare industry and the community as we strive for excellence and innovation in our services. Additionally, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead in the aged care and disability sector and the potential to further advocate for the highest standards of care for this population. Overall, I am looking forward to the challenges and achievements that 2024 will bring, and I am ready to embrace them with enthusiasm and dedication.
// If you could share one takeaway from your business or career journey, what would it be?
If I were to distil a crucial takeaway from my business and career journey, it would be the importance of persevering in the face of doubt and negativity from sceptics who question your abilities and potential. Throughout my professional path, I encountered discouraging opinions and obstacles that tested my determination. These challenges presented significant hurdles, especially while balancing the demands of my career with the responsibilities of pregnancy and raising my children. The need for flexible work arrangements that accommodated my family commitments added complexity and posed a threat to my professional progress. Moreover, when seeking a larger premises for relocating my practice, I faced scepticism and negativity from real estate professionals and landlords who doubted my financial capacity for expansion, based on gender biases as a female.
In the midst of such adversity, the key takeaway is to hold onto self-belief and resilience, refusing to let external negativity dim your drive. Success isn’t about being the most talented or exceptional individual but rather about recognising and utilising your unique strengths to pave your own path to success. Avoid the comparison trap and focus on nurturing your abilities to achieve your aspirations. By believing in yourself and your potential, you can overcome obstacles and navigate a fulfilling journey towards personal and professional fulfillment.
// What would being a Woman to Watch mean to you?
Being recognised as a Woman to Watch in 2024 would be a profound honour for me, symbolising not just personal achievement but also a tribute to the exceptional team and support network that surrounds and uplifts me. Their unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions have been instrumental in shaping the success of Podiatry Services SA. I aspire for this acknowledgment as an SA Woman to Watch in 2024 to serve as an inspiration to all women who have witnessed the dedication and perseverance I have poured into achieving my goals, encouraging them to recognise their own capabilities and strive for excellence.
Celebrating the accomplishments of women, regardless of their scale, holds great significance to me. Every woman’s journey is unique, with goals that vary in size and significance. Whether it’s conquering small milestones or pursuing larger-than-life ambitions, every accomplishment deserves recognition.
I firmly believe in the power of acknowledging collective triumphs, as every individual’s contribution paves the way for our shared success. As we embark on the journey ahead, I am filled with anticipation and excitement for what 2024 has in store. Together with my team, we will continue to defy expectations, overcome challenges, and carve our path towards even greater achievements.
// What would you like to see for the future of South Australian women and girls?
I envision a future for South Australian women and girls that is marked by inclusivity, empowerment, and support, where they are esteemed, honoured, and equipped to achieve their utmost potential in all spheres of life.
To pave the way for a positive future, several key elements are essential:
– Ensuring equal access to education, employment, and leadership roles.
– Empowering women and girls to pursue their passions, realise their aspirations, and make meaningful societal contributions.
– Establishing robust support systems, including mentorship initiatives, resources, and networks that foster growth and success.
– Prioritising safety and well-being, with a focus on addressing issues like gender-based violence and discrimination.
I believe that more emphasis should be placed on enabling girls and women to focus on education, career advancement, financial independence, and societal contributions, rather than solely on beauty standards and appearance. Women deserve recognition and rewards based on their achievements and capabilities, rather than superficial attributes. It is crucial to encourage more women to work, earn their own income, make sound financial decisions, and reduce financial dependency on others.
By collectively shifting our focus towards these goals and working together to dismantle barriers and stereotypes, we can create a future where South Australian women and girls flourish, thrive, and lead fulfilling lives with equality, dignity, and empowerment.
Get in touch with Maria:
LinkedIn: Maria Latemore
Website: www.podiatryservicessa.com
Check out all of the incredible Women to Watch for 2024 here as their profiles are uploaded throughout the year.
To become an SA Woman Member, check out our Membership Options here.