Chantelle was over the moon when she was appointed as project co-ordinator for Disability Action Week and International Day of People with Disability in July.
Chantelle has been employed by Best Choice Bookkeeping, a great supporter of the Disability Network, on a six month contract to fulfil these roles and works from STEPS Employment. This ensures her Employment Consultant is on hand to offer work-place assistance and mentoring.
“I was interviewed in the morning and was told I had the job that afternoon,” Chantelle said. “It was very exciting.”
Chantelle was kept busy organising events throughout Bundaberg as part of Disability Action Week. She has muscular dystrophy, a disease she has lived with her whole life, but do not think for a minute that has slowed her down. An avid horse enthusiast, she loves to get out and ride in her buggy and has been appointed the secretary of the Bundaberg Harness Club.
STEPS Employment Consultant Evelyn Thompson said Chantelle was chosen from a large selection as the best person for the job. “She was employed on her merits,” Evelyn said.
“Being able to employ someone with a disability is so empowering for them as well. Employers soon realise that there is so much support available from both local services and government.”
For Chantelle to undertake her role, her work station has been set up with special voice recognition software and appropriate computer equipment.