Recently Afford’s inclusive employment approach was splashed across the cover of News Corp’s national Careers section. Hopefully you saw it. But just in case you didn’t, the story was a deep dive into how employers and disability organisations such as ours are currently working hard to shift focus.
Where we were – barriers. Where we are – ability.
The feature showcased Afford and Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA). The other star of the feature – Kmart. Both organisations were held up as excellent examples of how meaningful employment pathways can change lives and strengthen workplaces. Not surprisingly, we were very proud. There’s nothing like a little recognition. But there’s more to our efforts than that of course. What we’re most excited about firstly is that we are working in this fashion – and more importantly, it is proving lifechanging.
You see, for Afford, the recognition reflects what we already know. That is, when people are given the right support, opportunities and belief, incredible things happen. After all, when a national careers publication highlights your work alongside one of Australia’s biggest retailers, it says something important about the impact being made.
Sami was delighted to be part of the official opening of Afford’s IEA office in Footscray, Victoria. He is pictured alongside Katie Hall MP (Centre) and Afford acting Chief Executive Officer Jess Scanlan (right).
A fresh start for Sammy
One of the people featured in the article was Sami Haddad, whose story is a powerful reminder of why inclusive employment matters.
After suffering a stroke in 2008, Sami experienced homelessness. He faced significant challenges rebuilding his life. Limited mobility and reduced endurance made finding and keeping work difficult, and like many people living with disability, he faced barriers that often had nothing to do with his capability or determination.
That all changed after connecting with Afford’s employment services team.
With tailored support, guidance and encouragement from Afford’s dedicated consultants, Sami secured work as a cleaner – a role that provided much more than a pay cheque.
For Sami, employment brought independence, routine, pride and purpose.
“I always wanted a job because I wanted to have a normal life, to earn my own money, feel independent and be proud of myself,” Sami said.
Today, he says work gives him confidence, stability and a renewed sense of achievement.
Sami’s story was deeply moving and inspiring also.
Employment that focuses on ability
At Afford, we know meaningful employment can transform lives. It builds confidence, connection, independence and community participation – while also helping businesses access dedicated and capable employees.
Through our partnership with Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA), we work closely with people living with disability to identify strengths, build skills and connect them with opportunities that match their goals and aspirations.
Our approach is built around personalised support because every person’s pathway to employment looks different.
That support can include:
- one-on-one coaching
- job readiness support
- resume and interview preparation
- workplace advocacy
- ongoing mentoring once employment begins
- building confidence and independence along the way.
Recognition on a national stage
Being featured in a major national careers publication alongside a recognised retail giant such as Kmart was an exciting moment for both Afford and IEA.
Importantly, the story did not position inclusive employment as a niche initiative, but as a leading example of modern workforce development and best-practice employment support.
It highlighted something we see every day: inclusive employment benefits everyone.
People gain confidence, financial independence and purpose. Employers gain committed team members and stronger, more diverse workplaces. Communities become more inclusive and connected.
Acting COO Jess Scanlan (left), Sami Hadad and Afford Employment Coach Yorka Manjah (right) celebrate the opening of Afford’s IEA office in Footscray, Victoria.
Creating more opportunities
Sami’s story is just one example of what becomes possible when barriers are removed and people are supported to succeed.
At Afford, we remain committed to creating pathways to meaningful employment and helping more people living with disability achieve their goals, build independence and thrive in workplaces across Australia.
The fact is when employers focus on ability instead of limitation, everyone benefits.
Read Sami’s story in the Saturday Telegraph below.
The Careers section of News Corp’s Saturday editions showcased Sami and our IEA team.
