Shauna’s Story
Shauna began her employment journey through Civic’s Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) Program and is currently working towards finding meaningful employment that aligns with her skills, interests and long-term career goals. Civic’s Specialist IEA Program supports people with intellectual disability to prepare for work, build confidence, develop skills and find employment opportunities that are the right fit for them. Through a participant-led, strengths-based approach, the program focuses on helping people achieve their individual employment goals with the support of experienced Job Coaches.
As part of her personalised employment plan, Shauna is currently gaining valuable workplace experience at the Nowra Café while exploring future employment opportunities in the wider community. This hands-on experience is helping her build practical skills and confidence in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Working in the café has given Shauna the opportunity to strengthen her customer service abilities, further develop her barista skills and gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to work in a busy hospitality setting. From taking orders and preparing drinks to working collaboratively with colleagues, Shauna approaches every task with enthusiasm, determination and a willingness to learn.
Since joining the team, Shauna has embraced every opportunity that comes her way. Her positive attitude, reliability and commitment to personal growth have seen her quickly become a valued member of the team. She has shown great confidence in trying new tasks, responding to feedback and continuing to develop her workplace skills, all while building meaningful connections with customers and colleagues.
Alongside her work at the café, Shauna is receiving ongoing support from Kevin, one of Civic’s dedicated Job Coaches. A key part of the IEA Program is working closely with participants to understand their strengths, interests and aspirations, then identifying employment pathways that match their goals. Together, Shauna and Kevin are exploring future opportunities, building job readiness skills and working towards securing sustainable employment in the community that is meaningful and rewarding for Shauna.
Shauna’s journey highlights the impact that the right support, real-world experience and a strengths-based approach can have in building confidence and creating pathways to employment. Through Civic’s IEA Program, participants are supported not only to find work, but to develop the skills, confidence and support networks needed to succeed in the long term.
We are incredibly proud of the progress Shauna has made so far and the dedication she has shown throughout her employment journey. We look forward to supporting her as she continues to build her skills, pursue her goals and take the next exciting steps towards employment in the community.
Well done, Shauna! Your hard work, positive attitude and commitment to learning are setting you up for a bright future and we can’t wait to see what you achieve next.
