When James first joined NDIS at WISE in December 2023, he brought more than just a passion for sport—he came with a genuine drive to find his place in the workforce. Living in Beaumaris and keen to secure a retail job close to home, James had spent time testing the waters with short work experiences at big retailers like Decathlon and Woolworths. But, like many job seekers, he faced the age-old challenge: “How can I get a job that needs experience when I’m still building it?”
“I was open to volunteering and doing anything that would help me learn,” James recalls. “Getting into retail was my main goal, but I also wanted to grow more confident talking to new people.”
A love of sports runs through almost everything James does. He works casually as a basketball referee, attending matches, soaking up the atmosphere, and learning all the nuance and excitement that comes from connecting with players and fans alike. In September 2024, that passion opened another important door: James became an Inclusion Officer for The Inclusion Project, supporting customers at sporting events and guiding them to sensory-safe spaces.
“It feels good to make a difference to people,” he says. “It’s been a great experience, especially at smaller sporting events, where a lot of people didn’t even know sensory spaces existed. It’s just really good to be able to help people wherever possible and help them have the best time they can at the game.”
But James’ involvement in sport runs even deeper. He volunteers with Melbourne United, dedicating time to help deliver exciting game-day experiences for others. This role has not only let him be part of his favourite community but also given him the chance to build friendships with people who share similar experiences and backgrounds. Being part of a big team at Melbourne United made James feel included and valued, and helped him realise that his contributions truly matter.
As a next step in his sporting journey, James is stepping into basketball coaching. Having supported holiday camps in the past, he’s now preparing to lead his own team for the first time. Coaching is not just about teaching the game—it’s given James a new level of responsibility and allowed him to practise clear communication, patience, and leadership. Although unpaid, this experience is something he’s proud of and sees as another way to give back and build confidence.
James doesn’t drive, so he and his NDIS at WISE support worker, Natalia, focused their job search on nearby suburbs. Through NDIS at WISE, James receives tailored assistance that helps build independence and develop skills that support his goals, including employment. Throughout the journey, Natalia supported James by conducting regular interview practice and role-playing sessions, transforming his nervousness and stress into a growing sense of confidence and readiness.
“When we practised interviews, I could tell I was getting better,” James shares. “I became more talkative and didn’t feel as worried anymore. Natalia was always there to support me if I got stuck.”
To boost his retail skills, James started volunteering at the Salvation Army shop. Here, he faced the cash register for the first time—a task that quickly changed from daunting to empowering.
“I’m happy I got to practise on the register. I know this skill will help me in the future,” he says. His supervisor at the Salvos is always there to answer questions and provide guidance. “It feels good to know I have people who want me to succeed.”
James’ dedication and warm approach at sporting events didn’t go unnoticed. A project manager from The Inclusion Project supported his application for a retail role at the Australian Open (AO) in 2026.
“It’s going to be a challenge, but I’m ready for anything that’s thrown at me,” James says. “It’s an incredible experience to actually be able to work there. I feel like everything I’ve done so far has led to this point.”
After his time at the AO, James reflects on the experience and says, “The AO was a really great experience, and I’d love to do it again. I learned a lot, improved my retail skills, and met some great people there. One day, I’d love to work at other Grand Slam events around the world too. “
James’ journey has been marked by steady growth, with each experience building his skills, confidence, and belief in himself. Now, he’s well prepared to take on new challenges and continue moving forward. By drawing on the help available through NDIS at WISE and following his passion, he’s discovered not just a job, but a community, and he’s ready for whatever comes next.
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