Giving someone a chance

“Give someone a chance- you might not realise the huge difference it could make to someone’s life just to be able to give something a go,” shared Ryan.

Ryan’s experience at Begonia Pets and Produce shows the power that work experience opportunities can have for an individual.

Through his NDIS plan, Ryan receives weekly School Leaver Employment Supports from Edge NDIS Employment Support Coach Lee-Caroline. “Lee helped me find work experience, I’ve been here about five times now and I can already see that work will give me independence, a chance to be a part of my community and a sense of self-worth.”

“Lee helps me when I can’t do something, but she doesn’t do the work for me, she watches me to make sure I don’t get hurt and that I understand why I’m doing a job.”

With a Certificate II in Animal Studies, finding work experience for Ryan in a business that matches his interests and is supportive, has been the perfect fit for Ryan. “I love getting to see and pat the animals, and help look after them. Edge has helped me develop my confidence, my stamina and my mental health. I look forward to getting out and having a go at different things. My morale has improved, I can see a brighter future ahead.”

The local family business have been extremely supportive, with Lee-Caroline sharing, “Begonia are hosting two Edge clients. They are a small family-owned business who are a key part of the Mundaring and Hills community.

They did not hesitate to take Ryan on for work experience, and have accommodated his needs, and treated him with the utmost kindness and respect. All the staff are respectful and have been proactive in getting Ryan involved and participating in tasks within his ability and extending him where possible. I cannot rate these people highly enough.”

We are thankful to companies like Begonia and are looking forward to watching Ryan continue to grow in confidence.