Tracey, a long-time Disability Employment Services (DES) – customer of Maxima’s Jimboomba office in Queensland – has secured three streams of paid employment. “I tell my kids I have three jobs now and if I can do it so can they!” Tracey proudly shared.
Tracey’s journey with Maxima began in 2022 when she signed up for the Self-Employment Assistance (SEA) program. With a passion for sewing, she started her own business, “Clothing Designs and Alterations by Tracey”. Despite initial challenges, Tracey returned to Maxima for additional support, determined to make her business a success.
With the guidance of her Maxima Employment Consultant, Janine, Tracey completed the SEA program. Janine’s dedicated support was instrumental in helping Tracey build her capacity to attract new clients and believe in her potential. “Janine never gave up in moving Tracey forward to independence,” remarked a colleague.
In addition to her sewing business, Tracey has become a vital member of the Nundah community group, where she teaches new migrants to Australia essential sewing skills and basic conversational English. This self-employment stream not only expands Tracey’s horizons but also provides crucial engagement and support for new immigrants.
The collaboration between Maxima and local businesses further propelled Tracey’s success. In late March, Janelle, a Business Development Consultant (BDC) at Maxima, received an email from Paul, an Employment Support Coordinator at Logan City Council. Paul had a connection with an employer looking for a sewing machinist. Janelle, who has a long-standing working relationship with Logan City Council, identified Tracey as a suitable candidate. Tracey’s resume was sent on April 24th, 2024, and she commenced her new role at Imaging Solutions on May 1st, 2024.
Imaging Solutions, the largest and only manufacturer of imaging equipment and accessories in Australia, is expanding and aims to work closely with Maxima and Logan City Council to recruit new staff and offer training options. The company is moving to a state-of-the-art facility in the next eight weeks, providing even more opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Now, Tracey has reached her benchmark hours at Imaging Solutions, while still maintaining her self-employment and teaching roles in her spare time. She is extremely happy with her employment in a supportive and accommodating environment.
Maxima’s comprehensive assistance and strong local partnerships have enabled Tracey to achieve her employment goals and set an inspiring example for her children and community.
If you would like to see how Maxima’s Disability Employment Services can also help you on the path to meaningful employment, click the link below: