Nikki Accornero, Advisor, was born and raised in a loving, tight-knit multicultural family right here in Brisbane. With a successful career in communications under her belt, her talents don’t stop there. Outside of work she is also known for her culinary skills, so we’ve got our fingers crossed for an invite to dinner! Over a fragrant espresso, Nikki shares a little about what makes her tick.
Question 1: Why did you join commonkind?
A serendipitous and fortunate meeting with the Chair of commonkind opened my mind, my heart and my spirit to this very meaningful and special organisation. From our shared common values, the complex simplicity to create a loving country through acts of kindness never rang truer. I was so inspired by the courageous bravery of the founder, Carolina, to act and do something genuine and real, I just wanted to be a part of it.
Question 2: What were you like as a child?
Some people would say the same just shorter! I have always been a talker, and I have always been passionate about people and things I believe in. At kindy I used to tell everyone what a great dentist my Dad was and hand out his business card. My kindy teacher still went to my Dad as a patient up until the day he retired.
Question 3: What was your first volunteering experience?
My first volunteering experience was as a family when we would volunteer with the Cerebral Palsy centre in New Farm and once a month take children to mass at the Holy Spirit Church on Villiers Street.
Question 4: What has been your most memorable volunteering experience?
My most memorable volunteering experience is probably my most recent one – working with my daughter’s primary school to help raise funds not only to support the children of the school but also to create a special discretionary fund for the principal to help support underprivileged families at the school.
Question 5: What’s the very first job you had (that’s not on your LinkedIn profile) and what did you learn from the experience?
Working Front of House at QPAC during my university years. It was so much fun and I made some incredible friendships. I also got to see so many walks of life. I can still sing the words to every song and act out every scene of Les Miserable after seeing more than 60 performances!
Nikki (age 3) at home in New Farm with her big brother by her side.
Question 6: What do you do for fun?
I love to cook my Nonna’s recipes. I especially love doing this with my daughter and friends. To be able to share my heritage makes me grateful for what my grandparents sacrificed to come to Australia and how proud I know they would be of what their children and grandchildren have achieved.
Question 7: What motivates you?
Firstly, my daughter motivates me every day. She is my reason for being and knowing that we will share another day together drives me forward. I am also motivated by strong and compassionate people. Those who help others through words, action or just being present.
Question 8: How do you practice self-compassion?
I am not always the best at this, but I think that is a mum thing. When I can find just 10 minutes to sit and be present in the moment with my calming app helps to re-centre me. I also think my early morning walk with our puppy Bella helps to give me gratitude for my day ahead and the short walk with her before bed helps to reflect on all I am grateful for that day.
Question 9: If you could give children and young people one piece of advice, what would it be?
Have an open heart and be grateful for the good in your life and remember to always show kindness to others.
Question 10: What is your most used emoji?
Smiley face with a kiss and heart. I love to give hugs and kisses. I blame my Italian heritage.
Learn even more about Nikki and other members of the commonkind team here.
About commonkind
We provide benevolent relief to people and communities suffering from poverty, disadvantage and distress by facilitating age-appropriate community service activities for children, families and other interested parties.
Get in touch!
Whether you are a charity with a task that might be suitable or you are interested in helping us create a kinder and more connected community, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us here.
