"I’ve learnt so much about bikes while being here...it’s been a great experience,” Quinn said.
Joining the workforce can be exciting, but finding what sparks your interest and understanding and how to make that interest a job can be tricky. That’s where Life Without Barriers' Employment Pathways team can help!
"For people with disability, finding the right job can be tough,” said Rebecca O’Connell, Employment Pathways Coach.
“As a young person, you’re not only navigating what you're good at and enjoy doing but you’re also overcoming systematic barriers and negative bias which can make entry to the employment market challenging.”
Young People’s Employment Pathways is for people with disability who are leaving high school and want to explore their passions and set goals. And that’s exactly how Life Without Barriers supported Quinn.
Image: Quinn completing repairs on a bike.
Rebecca worked with Quinn to develop his skills and identify his interests through discussions and role play.
Quinn found a love of mountain biking and has a knack for hands-on work. It wasn’t long before he found himself immersed in the world of bike fabrication and mechanics at Tempest Bike Shop.
Tempest Bike Shop is renowned for its custom bike creations and is the only one in Australia where you can learn the skills to build a mountain bike from scratch, as most bikes and bike parts are now imported from overseas.
“I’ve learnt so much about bikes while being here - how they are made, how they work and the tricks to repairing a really nice bike - it’s been a great experience,” Quinn said.
“My goal is to learn how to service a bike because that’s a skill I can take with me from this experience. I plan on riding my bike in a couple of weeks and servicing it here.”
Image: Quinn and Rob working together to repair a bike.
Rob owns Tempest Bike Shop and shared that he has enjoyed having Quinn on the team.
“This is a new industry for Quinn so he has questions and is learning. He is keen and has an interest, that’s half the battle – it’s been a pleasure to have him here.” Rob said.
There’s more than one pathway to your dream job
Young People’s Employment Pathways (YPEP) supports young people with disability to gain skills and experience and to find meaningful employment. We offer a flexible and individualised support service. Our Employment Pathways team will work with you to develop a plan that is unique to your skills, interests and goals.
Our services are currently available in NSW and WA; however we also offer virtual services combined with local on the ground support in other locations.
