What's your role at Empowering Connection, and what does a typical day look like?
I’m a Specialist Support Coordinator, which means I help participants bring all of their NDIS supports together and make sure everything works the way it should. No two days are the same! I might be meeting with participants to check in and see how they’re going, making phone calls to organise supports or sort out any issues that come up, liaising with the NDIS to keep things running smoothly, and answering many, many emails.
How long have you been in disability or aged care, and what brought you into it?
I’ve been working in disability for nearly three years. What first drew me in was my passion for working with people and helping them achieve their goals. What keeps me here is knowing that many of the people I work with can’t always voice what they need on their own, and navigating the NDIS alone can be really hard. My job is to make sure my participants are seen, heard, and getting the support they need.
What do you love most about your work?
Hearing people’s stories. Everyone has a story to tell, but not everyone gets the chance to have someone really listen. I love getting to know the people I work with, tailoring supports to suit them, and being a small part of their lives.
What's one thing participants or families should know about working with you?
I’ve spent half my life in the US, so don’t be surprised if you pick up on an American accent!
Which part of the EC Way means the most to you, and why?
Inclusion. I strongly believe in fairness and justice for participants, and inclusion is a big part of that. Everyone deserves to live a full life like anyone else, and that starts with communities that welcome and include everyone.
Respect. It’s so important that participants feel respected in every part of their support. My role puts me in a position to advocate for my participants and support them in making decisions, so building mutual respect is essential. It’s what gives participants the trust to tell me what they really need.
Where's your favourite spot on the Fleurieu?
A lookout on Waitpinga Road. It has a full view over Victor Harbor and Encounter Bay, and it’s beautiful.
What do you like to do on your days off?
I love heading into the city to eat good food, shop, or catch up with friends. I’m also into Lego and playing games on my Switch.
What's your go-to coffee or café order?
A cold brew or an iced long black. Cold coffee all year round, no matter the weather!
A skill or hobby people might not expect from you?
I’m a (very) mediocre piano player. When I get some free time, I love to sing and play songs on the piano.
What's a moment at work that made your day?
Watching our new office space come to life. It makes my day to see it filled with participants exploring and enjoying themselves.
