Oceanlee faced challenges, but she wanted employment and independence and she didn't let her challenges stop her.
“Vivacious! That’s what we need, more vivacious people out there!” said Noel, a Local area coordinator (LAC) who works for Social Futures, out of its NSW regional office, in Dubbo.
Noel is speaking about one of his Dubbo NDIS participants, 26-year-old Oceanlee.
When it came to looking for work, Oceanlee, who lives with social anxiety, separation anxiety, and a mild intellectual disability, faced several challenges, but never gave up.
“After I finished school, I contacted Social Futures then I met my Lac Noel. He’s amazing,” Oceanlee said. “He’s helped me achieve most of my goals. Reenie from QOE Health has been great too.”
Oceanlee was determined to push past her challenges. Her main NDIS goals included securing a full-time job, getting a driver’s license, and moving into her own home.
“I lost my dad to Stage Four cancer,” Ocean-Lee said. “Before he passed away, I managed to get a job,” she said.
“He was the one who brought me to my first interview. He was the one who took me to my first shift.”
Ocean-Lee has been working at Bunnings for the past 18 months, a job she’s really enjoying.
“I started as a casual, three months later I was offered a full-time job. I’m loving it!” she said.
“Working at Bunnings has helped me to overcome my social anxiety. I don’t like big crowds, but I’ve been doing so well,” Oceanlee said, referring to her Bunnings colleagues. “They’ve all been so proud of me. They’ve also basically classed me as one of their favourites, from what I’ve heard!”
Noel said Oceanlee’s growth inspires him. “She’s really embracing opportunities and developing her skills,” he said. “It’s been absolutely magnificent to see her confidence grow and the supports working so well.”
Reflecting on life prior to joining the NDIS, Oceanlee said, life was “horrible.” “I didn’t have anyone to help me achieve my goals except my family, and they struggled to help me. I struggled a lot,” she confessed.
“With NDIS support, it’s changed. It’s helped me so much. I’ve learned social skills; how to shop, and I’m even trying to budget, though I hate it! I have a big cup addiction, so if I have money, I’ll buy a cup!” she laughed.
Through Oceanlee’s NDIS plan, she’s been able to access Dubbo QOE Health support too. Staff there supported her to build her confidence, prepare for interviews, budget, shop, and even travel to and from work.
Noel said he’s really proud of Oceanlee, and the hard work she’s done to get to where she is today.
“She’s done so well, and it’s beautiful to see someone who wanted employment, grab the opportunity with both hands,” he said.
Watch Oceanlee’s Story here
Recently, Oceanlee has reached some other significant milestones. She moved into her own home and started using public transport on her own.
Now, her focus is on getting her driver’s license and saving for the future.
“One of my dreams is to own my own house and travel,” Oceanlee said.
Keen for others to benefit from the NDIS like she has, Oceanlee suggested researching and picking up the phone to make a few calls.
“Definitely contact Social Futures. They’ll do their best to help you get as far as possible in life,” she said.
Noel said Oceanlee is a great example of what’s possible with the right support and determination.
“She’s reached out for support, learned a lot and done so well applying it,” he said. “Now she can look forward to enjoying a more inclusive, brighter future.”
The not-for-profit organisation Social Futures is an NDIS partner. If you would like to find out how the NDIS can support you, you can speak to one of our local area coordinators by calling our LAC Hotline on 1800 522 679 (Mon-Fri 8:30am – 4:30pm). You can also email [email protected]
