Our Story

We create bespoke learning solutions for numerous companies across many industries, check out a selection of our work.

Our Background

Optimism was established in 1992 by learning and development expert, Sussan Ockwell. ​Since then, Optimism has become a leading provider of capability and learning solutions for corporates operating in New Zealand and beyond. ​​We're passionate about developing competence and confidence in the workplace, and we thrive on creating innovative solutions that deliver a competitive edge and long-term results. ​

Our Founder

Sussan Ockwell is renowned in the L&D industry, and is a regular speaker ​at learning conferences. She was acknowledged as Learning Practitioner of the Year 2018 as well as Learning Person of the Year 2018. Sussan is the ​current Learning Chair for Entrepreneurs Organisation NZ (EO NZ), and was ​awarded EO Megastar of the Year in 2019 for her contribution to the organisation.

Our Founder

Optimism was established in 1992 by learning and development expert, Sussan Ockwell. ​Since then, Optimism has become a leading provider of capability and learning solutions for corporates operating in New Zealand and beyond. ​​We're passionate about developing competence and confidence in the workplace, and we thrive on creating innovative solutions that deliver a competitive edge and long-term results. ​

Our Awards

Optimism is an award-winning company, and here’s some of those Awards we’ve won over the last few years.

LearnX gold award 2018

Optimism & Coastguard Boating Education

Gold Winner

Best Technical Training
LearnX Impact Awards 2018
NZATD award, green

Optimism & Ports of Auckland

Runner-up

Programme of the Year
NZATD Awards 2016
NZATD award, green

Sussan Ockwell

Winner

L&D Person of the Year
NZATD Awards 2016
NZATD award, green

Sussan Ockwell

Winner

L&D Practitioner of the Year
NZATD Awards 2016
iela award 2016

Optimism & NZ School Trustees

Honourable Mention

E-Learning
IELA 2016
LearnX silver award 2016

Optimism

Silver Winner

Best eLearning Interactive Scenario Learnx Impact Awards 2016
LearnX impact silver winner award

Optimism

Silver

Best eLearning Development Company Learnx Impact Awards 2015
iela gold award 2015

Optimism

Winner

E-Learning
IELA 2015