One of Sign for Work Queensland’s newest customers has recently achieved something truly special: securing a part-time role she genuinely loves.
Her journey to employment has been shaped by courage, persistence and an ongoing commitment to learning. She is Deaf and grew up in a rural area overseas, where she had limited access to formal education, language, technology and support. Coming from a family with limited resources, many of the opportunities that others may take for granted were simply not available to her.
Despite this, she showed remarkable determination from a young age. Whenever she was able to access the internet through friends, she taught herself American Sign Language (ASL) online. This became an important part of how she connected, communicated and continued building her confidence.
After migrating to Australia and settling on the Gold Coast, she spent eight years without access to formal support services. When she later applied for and gained access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), she set clear and meaningful goals for herself. She wanted to learn Auslan and English, find stable employment, build her independence and financially support her family.
Her NDIS Support Coordinator recommended she connect with Lynda at Sign For Work. This introduction became an important turning point.
As a qualified Auslan interpreter who is also fluent in ASL, Lynda was uniquely placed to support her. She was able to communicate with her in a way that felt accessible, respectful and empowering, while also helping her navigate the employment process in Australia.
With Lynda’s support, she secured a part-time role with a popular supermarket chain, where she now prepares and bakes biscuits in the bakery team.
She loves her job and is excited about the future. She is eager to continue learning, increase her hours, build her skills in the bakery and become fully fluent in Auslan. Her goals also extend beyond work. She hopes to gain her driver’s licence, buy a car and one day travel back home with her young daughter to introduce her to family.
Her story is a powerful reminder of what can happen when determination is met with the right support. With access, understanding and tailored employment guidance, people can build confidence, strengthen independence and take meaningful steps toward the life they want.
To learn more about how Sign for Work supports deaf and hard of hearing people to build confidence, skills and meaningful employment pathways, get in touch with our team today.