Believe in yourself
“Take a chance and believe in yourself. You can achieve many things with the support available of companies like Edge.”
Rachael’s journey with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) spans an incredible 15 years, where she has found fulfilment and purpose in her role as an Administration Officer. However, her story with Edge began much earlier, back when she was still in high school.
“Edge encouraged me to do a traineeship after school and found me the placement with the Education Department. I was fortunate to secure a Traineeship Certificate III in Business. After my training was completed, I secured a permanent position with the Department of Fisheries as a level 1 public servant. I feel privileged to have a secure job that gives me a purpose and financial independence.”
From here, Rachael transferred from the Department of Education to the Department of Fisheries (now DPIRD) and continued her role as a Records Officer. Throughout her 20 year career journey, Edge has supported and assisted Rachael, “Edge helped me understand and learn my job tasks and help me work through any problems at work. They help with communication with supervisors, managers and colleagues.”
The ongoing support from Edge has been crucial in helping Rachael navigate her professional challenges and building confidence. “It has helped me to build confidence in myself and believe that I can learn and do new tasks. They support me when I feel worried and insecure, and have given me tools to overcome my insecurities.
They have made me feel supported and more confident. They have coached me to be able to speak up for myself and communicate my needs or concerns.”
Another key part of Rachael’s success is the supportive team at DPIRD, “My manager is very supportive and understanding. I can always come to her for support. I feel proud to be a public servant.”
It is only fitting to end on Rachael’s parting words for businesses, “I would encourage employers to hire someone with a disability because they are loyal workers and try their best. It gives the person a sense of contributing to society and feeling confident in themselves.”