Ayma, a Maxima intern, is not only serving as a spokesperson for people with disabilities in Venezuela, but continuing to pursue new opportunities in Australia, in hopes of breaking barriers for people just like her. As a woman living with disability, she has continually pursued to inspire others by showing that obstacles can be overcome through perseverance.
Ayma was born with Wagner Stickler Syndrome, a genetic condition that affects vision, speech, and causes arthritis. Despite these challenges, she embraced her disability as a way to help others understand life from a different perspective. She became a spokesperson for people with disabilities, conducting conferences in Venezuela, driven by her personal experiences and a desire to challenge the stereotypes she faced.
Professionally, Ayma worked as a Marketing Manager for Petróleos de Venezuela (PDVSA), Venezuela’s national oil company, where she managed industrial work related to lighting and lamps. Her expertise extended to the maritime business due to PDVSA’s extensive import/export operations, adding international trade to her skillset.
Economic challenges in Venezuela, including hyperinflation, shortages of basic goods, and political instability, prompted Ayma to move to the Dominican Republic, where she lived for five years during a period of dictatorship. There, she served as an Academic Coordinator at the university of Abierta para Adultos, managing social media and online programs. This role gave her valuable insights into marketing services and sales of insurance, diplomas, and other programs.
In 2018, after facing financial and health difficulties, Ayma learned about a UN resettlement program, which eventually led her and her family to Australia. Initially, she had not considered Australia, but by February 2023, she and her family made Adelaide their new home. The wide sandy stretches of Henley Beach, reminiscent of her coastal hometown – providing for a comforting and familiar transition.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Administration, an MBA in Marketing, and a background in international trade and maritime business, Ayma is eager to continue her studies in Australia. She plans to improve her English proficiency and pursue a Certificate IV in Marketing & Communications, with the long-term goal of completing a PhD in Marketing.
Soon after their move, Ayma’s husband began volunteering with the Red Cross Foundation, and through his involvement, Ayma discovered the Building Employers’ Confidence (BEC) project, coordinated by the Multicultural Communities Council of South Australia (MCCSA). A chance encounter with a LinkedIn post led her to Perrin, the project lead, and soon Ayma found herself engaged in the program. This initiative has been pivotal in her journey, offering regular follow-ups, support for job interviews, and boosting her confidence in navigating the Australian job market.
Ayma recently conducted marketing research on Maxima’s competition and actively contributed to improvements on our website. She expresses deep gratitude for the opportunities that have allowed her to grow both personally and professionally, improving her confidence and English skills along the way.
Outside of her professional aspirations, Ayma is passionate about staying active. She plays blind soccer, using a bell-equipped ball and face mask, alongside golf, and salsa dancing. She recently attended a tango event in Glenelg, where she twirled across the polished dance floors with her husband, and has the opportunity to make a few new friends.
Ayma’s future goals are clear. She plans to apply for a Certificate IV in Marketing & Communications and has set her sights on completing a PhD in Marketing, which she views as both a challenge and an opportunity to solidify her professional expertise in a new language. She is also working on securing a volunteer position in marketing with MCCSA, as a steppingstone toward her larger ambitions.
“As a woman with a disability, I’ve faced numerous challenges on my journey. Yet, I firmly believe that ‘Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.’ My experiences have only fuelled my resolve to break barriers and inspire others to persevere against all odds. Through my story, I aim to shed light on the strength that lies within us, empowering individuals to embrace their own journey with courage and determination.””