Wendy came across atWork Australia through a promotion she saw, showing atWork Australia as a sponsor of Nepean Disability Expo. At this time Wendy had been unemployed for one year.
Wendy has a hearing impairment and found that this was affecting her self-esteem, particularly when interviewing and when starting new jobs. Wendy confided in her atWork Australia Disability Employment Services Job Coach, Rachelle, that she felt her hearing impairment had always held her back from reaching her goals.
Wendy’s hearing impairment and lack of confidence didn’t hold her back from enhancing her employability though, studying her Certificate IV in Aged Care and her Certificate III in Disability Care (Individual Support). Wendy knew that she wanted to find work that meant she could reflect on her own experiences and help people.
Together Wendy and Rachelle would meet fortnightly, updating Wendy’s resumé and applying for jobs for Wendy together. “We worked very well together, Wendy was an excellent and committed jobseeker, and I would research into organisations that I think she would benefit from,” Rachelle said.
A role as a Youth Worker at the local Salvation Army came up, and Wendy applied. The role involved supporting youth with a disability during the school holidays, through the Salvation Army program.
Wendy interviewed very well and was offered the role. “Wendy was so happy when I called her and told her she had the job. I could feel her smiling through the phone. I was so happy for her, this is the perfect role for Wendy,” Rachelle said.
From Rachelle and Wendy’s first meeting to her job offer and beyond, Rachelle saw a complete transformation in Wendy. “Since our first appointment, I have seen Wendy grow as a person. She has more confidence in herself. She is always willing to give anything a go and she has very strong willpower to get where she wants to be. Now she says she doesn’t let her hearing loss define her,” Rachelle said.
Wendy is very happy in her new role, making a difference to young people’s lives and getting to reflect on her own personal journey to better inform her work as a Youth Worker. “You only get out what you put in, I will not let my hearing impairment define me as a person anymore,” Wendy said.
Another great outcome for a young jobseeker, and a wonderful result that Wendy is now helping other youth with disability, through her new job.
No matter your barrier to employment, atWork Australia will work tirelessly to find you the right job. Work that reflects your goals and desires and allows you to get what you want out of life. Call us on 1300 080 856 or enquire online today.