36-year-old Isho from Wakely lives with Cerebral Palsy and an intellectual disability. Having lost his previous work due to staff shortages after COVID-19, Isho began to lose hope in the possibility of a brighter future.
After three years of unemployment and living on the Disability Support Pension, Isho mustered up the courage to get his life back on track, joining WISE Employment at the beginning of 2021.
Isho was partnered with Employment Consultant Fion, and shared his passion for the hospitality industry and working with people face to face.
“When Isho first came into the office, I could sense he was feeling shy and suffering depression after the lockdown period. We got to work and discussed needing to find an employer that understood his barriers, but could also see his determination and willingness to work,” said Fion.
Over the course of a month, Isho and Fion met weekly to prepare for the job application process, reciting interview questions and sourcing interview clothing that Isho felt comfortable in.
“Fion and I built a close relationship, and I felt comfortable opening up about my challenges in the past. Meeting regularly and preparing for undergoing interviews really helped me feel confident when applying for jobs,” said Isho.
Through community connections with WISE Employment, Fion had found a job opening for Isho at the hospitality venue Doltone House who were seeking a kitchen hand.
“Once Fion told me about the role, I applied for the job on Seek and got a call almost straight away to go in for my first interview. After meeting the Head Chef, I came in for a trial shift and was offered the position immediately. It felt great to be recognised for my potential and for them to see my capabilities in action,” reflects Isho.
Fion organised clothing, work boots and kitchen utensils in preparation for Isho’s first day as a kitchen hand, in addition to regular counselling sessions to ensure he felt comfortable as the job progressed.
“It’s safe to say I really enjoy my job. I love the social aspect of working within a team who get along well, and it’s nice to get out of my comfort zone. I’ve noticed such a change in my mental health and my confidence is improving daily,” said Isho.
Fion says he has noticed a change in him too.
“The growth I’ve seen in Isho has been incredible. He’s become a real advocate for WISE, motivating others to find employment and even bringing in his friends who need help finding work. He knows he can rely on us and seeing him happy is one of the best parts of this job for me,” reflects Fion.
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