Creating opportunities for others has always been at the heart of Monica O'Brien's work. Now, that commitment has earned her national recognition. 

Named a finalist in the Rising Star category at the 2026 Social Mobility (SOMO) Awards, Monica is being recognised for her contribution to social recruitment, inclusion and creating pathways into employment for those who may otherwise be overlooked. 

The SOMOs celebrate organisations and individuals who are helping to break down barriers to employment and create pathways for people to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.

The nomination recognises Monica's contribution to advancing social mobility through her work at SecuriGroup and the positive impact she has made through social recruitment and inclusion initiatives. 

While Monica joined the business in a recruitment-focused role, her position has evolved considerably over the years. Today, she plays a key role in driving SecuriGroup's social recruitment and equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) initiatives, helping to ensure opportunities are accessible to people who may otherwise be overlooked. 

At the heart of that work is Secure Your Path, SecuriGroup's social recruitment programme, which was developed to support wider communities, strengthen society and connect individuals facing barriers to work with meaningful employment opportunities. 

Through the programme and wider community partnerships, Monica has helped demonstrate how recruitment can be a powerful force for positive social change as well as business growth. 

For Monica, the most rewarding part of the role is seeing the direct impact those opportunities can have on people's lives. 

"I think the most rewarding part of my job is getting to watch people come into genuine, meaningful employment, particularly from communities which are typically overlooked within the labour market." 

One of the most powerful examples of this came through SecuriGroup's partnership with Down's Syndrome Scotland, which helped candidates secure paid employment opportunities at one of Scotland's largest sporting events. 

The initiative gave participants the chance to gain valuable work experience, build confidence and showcase their abilities in a professional environment, while highlighting the positive impact inclusive recruitment can have on individuals, families and communities. 

"Seeing the photos, hearing the feedback and speaking with the parents really shows us why we engage in social value and the benefit it can have on wider communities." 

Beyond specific programmes and partnerships, Monica has helped champion a culture where social value is embedded throughout the business, encouraging team members at every level to play a role in creating opportunities for others. 

Reflecting on what she considers her biggest achievement, Monica said: 

"I think for me the biggest achievement is how engaged everyone is at every single level in social value and social recruitment. It really does support our core purpose of strengthening society."

The Rising Star category recognises individuals who are making an exceptional impact through their work and helping to drive meaningful change within their organisations and communities. 

Monica's place among this year's finalists is recognition of the passion, leadership and dedication she has shown in helping create more inclusive pathways into employment and supporting SecuriGroup's purpose of strengthening society. 

The winners of the 2026 Social Mobility Awards will be announced on 6th October. 



Everyone at SecuriGroup would like to congratulate Monica on this fantastic achievement. The impact of her work can be seen not only in the programmes she has helped develop, but in the lives and careers of the people those initiatives have supported. 

Congratulations, Monica, on becoming a Social Mobility Awards Rising Star finalist, and the very best of luck.