Disability Employment Services client, Thi, lives with Osteoarthritis.
Thi predominantly speaks Vietnamese, and she was excited to learn the atWork Australia team had Job Coaches who could also speak the language.
Thi had limited work experience, as she spent most of her time caring for children and managing her home.
When all her children had moved out of home, as a 65-year-old, she felt the urge to find employment and a purpose for her day.
Thi was introduced to Employer Engagement Consultant, Rachael, who asked her about her employment goals.
“Thi wanted to work within a Vietnamese business to remain within her community,” said Rachael.
“She said she would be interested in work that was aligned to her homemaker skills like cooking or working within a kitchen.
Thi was placed into a role in a pho (Vietnamese noodle) restaurant, and her confidence began to grow.
Then one day while shopping with her daughter she had lunch at a Vietnamese restaurant called District 1 HCMC. She admired the work environment and called Rachael to see if atWork Australia could connect her to the employer.
Rachael contacted manager, Andrew, from District 1 who just so happened to be looking for someone to help replicate authentic Vietnamese home cooking. While he was hesitant at first due to Thi’s minimal experience, he agreed to give her a go.
“Thi has proven to be an asset to the business,” said Rachael.
“In return, her new employer provided her the chance to create and to prepare more dishes she is passionate about.”
“Thi is now in charge of the grill with Bun Cha (BBQ pork) and spring rolls. Andrew even joins Thi in the kitchen some days in the week to show her support.”
For the opportunity, Rachael spoke with the employer about changing the roles slightly to work with Thi’s physical abilities. She has been able to shorter shifts and build slowly to longer ones as she identifies her capability.
“Rachael understood my desire, she saw me for my strengths,” said Thi.
“atWork Australia made me feel supported in every career choice I made.”
Every year, atWork Australia help thousands of clients like Thi expand their skills and qualifications to help them gain the right job with the right employer. Call us today on 1300 080 856 or enquire online to find out how we can help you meet your career goals.