This prestigious honour celebrates a remarkable entrepreneurial journey that has transformed countless lives through education, skills development and meaningful employment opportunities. It also acknowledges Sarina's enduring commitment to helping people realise their potential and create brighter futures. Sarina's connection with James Cook University was formally recognised when she was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Commerce, acknowledging her significant contribution to education, entrepreneurship and community development.

Born in a small village in Sicily, Italy, Sarina migrated to Australia with her family at the age of five. Arriving with limited English and facing the challenges of adapting to a new country, she developed the resilience, determination and belief in possibility that would later define her career.

"I was dreaming about my independence. All I wanted in my life was freedom," Sarina said.

Adjusting to life in Australia was not easy, with English presenting one of her greatest challenges.

"Comprehension was really one of the biggest challenges. I failed my Grade 10 English, and they said that I would never be able to make it to Grade 12," she said.

Determined to prove otherwise, Sarina completed night classes and went on to pass, a breakthrough that transformed her life and helped establish the resilience, discipline and drive that would become hallmarks of her remarkable career.

In 1979, with just $2,600 in savings and a vision to help people build better futures through education, Sarina established a small training business in Brisbane. From those humble beginnings, the organisation grew into what is now the Sarina Russo Group, a diverse and internationally recognised enterprise spanning employment services, education, training and community programs.

Over the past 47 years, the organisation has helped tens of thousands of people gain skills, secure employment, pursue education and achieve their goals. Under Sarina's leadership, it has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of individuals, businesses and communities in Australia and internationally.

"In life, you've got to keep believing in yourself and that's what I did. I also worked 17 hours a day in the beginning," she said.

Her entrepreneurial vision extended well beyond the classroom. Always alert to new opportunities, she built a distinctive personal brand that captured public attention and helped make her a household name.

"I created a jingle called How to Get That Job, which then became a TV show I hosted for more than 20 years," she said.

A defining characteristic of Sarina's leadership has been her unwavering belief in people and their potential.

"I believe everyone has a diamond within, and our job is to find that diamond."

This philosophy continues to inspire individuals across education, employment and business sectors, encouraging people to pursue opportunities and achieve their aspirations.

The Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame induction is the latest in a series of prestigious honours recognising Sarina's impact and leadership. In addition to receiving an Honorary Doctor of Commerce from James Cook University, she has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) and was recognised as a Queensland Great in 2025.

James Cook University Brisbane congratulates Dr Sarina Russo AM on this significant achievement and celebrates her ongoing contribution to education, entrepreneurship and opportunity creation. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that determination, resilience and lifelong learning can open doors to extraordinary success.

We also congratulate fellow 2026 Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame inductees Endeavour Foundation, Bevan Slattery, Cathie Reid and Stuart Giles, Ludo Studio, and TechnologyOne. Their achievements, alongside Sarina's, reflect the innovation, perseverance and leadership that continue to shape Queensland's business landscape.

The Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame was established in 2009 by QUT Business School, the State Library of Queensland and the Queensland Library Foundation to recognise individuals and organisations whose contributions have enhanced Queensland's reputation and supported the state's economic and social development. Through the ongoing partnership between QUT and the State Library of Queensland, the Hall of Fame preserves the stories and achievements of Queensland's most distinguished business leaders, creating a lasting legacy to inspire future generations.

WATCH SARINA’S STORY

Image and Video Credit: leaders.slq.qld.gov.au