Dora has been a supported employee for an incredible 15 years, but it's more than just a job: it’s been a path to confidence to achieve her goals and thrive.
Dora works at a supported employment site in New South Wales that provides packaging services to some of Australia’s most recognisable brands – and meaningful employment for people with disability.
She's worked on a variety of jobs in the packaging process, but her favourite is labelling products, including everything from make-up to Christmas shortbread biscuits. She also helps with the induction of new office staff.
But working has given Dora more than just employment.
“I know I was quiet when I first started. It has really improved my confidence,” said Dora.
“I'm also meeting new people, and I also go out with them on the weekends, so it's pretty good having a social life.”
Dora recently joined our Client Advisory Panel, where she helps to represent the voices of the people who use our services alongside 13 other clients.
“I joined to improve my confidence and learn new skills,” said Dora. “I’m helping people have confidence, helping people speak and answer questions, listening to other people, and being patient as well, which will be very good for me to learn about other people and myself. They give me skills and I give them skills.”
Dora said the panel is important so that people with disability can have their voices heard.
“I think if we want things to be changed in our workplace, it’s good to let [senior leaders] know. We’re people as well and we want our voices to be heard, and we want to get out there. I think it’s a good thing that we’ve been included, and we’ve been involved.”
Dora, who has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, said the world is slowly improving as more people with disability are included.
“For example, on the roads and footpaths, I can see they try to smooth it out so I can get up and wheel on my own if I need to go places, so that's a big thing for me,” said Dora. “The world is getting good for people with disability.”
Dora’s dream goal is to be an advocate for her workplace, and to give others the opportunity and confidence she has gained throughout her working years.
“My confidence has soared. I love my confidence right now.”
She also encourages people with disability to try new things to achieve their goals.
“I say just do it. Just open yourself up to try anything. If you can't do it then that's okay, but at least you gave it a go. Let's say just get out there. It's a good thing.”
Dora is part of our 2024 International Day of People with Disability series which celebrates the theme ‘Amplifying the leadership of people with disability for an inclusive and sustainable future’. From 28 November – 3 December, we're sharing the stories of just some of our leaders living with disability and clients who are dreaming big and achieving their goals.
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