I have never regretted my change in vocation

I work in frontline support as a Support Worker at The Mai-Wel Group in Newcastle. Mai-Wel has a day centre and offers community access programs in skills development and social participation.

In my role, I support individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities to access the community and realise their potential.

Eight years ago I completed a trade as a plant mechanic. I was not satisfied to continue to pursue this trade as my vocation. I worked casually and intermittently for 12 months before having a discussion with a friend about his current volunteer work. I thought it sounded interesting and decided to volunteer one day a week myself.

After 3 months of volunteer work I was offered a casual position which quickly grew into a permanent role. I have been with the same employer for 7 years now and have never regretted my change in vocation.

From the moment I began my volunteer work I knew I had an opportunity to have a profession which was fun, interesting and, most of all, personally satisfying.