CVGT Employment and partners work together to create Perri’s dream job – and Perri loves it

Perri loves nothing more than serving you a coffee with a smile at the Aquarena Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

Perri, who has Down Syndrome, joined the CVGT Employment’s Specialist Disability Employment Team (SDET) program in 2022.

It was during the Pathway to Independence program that Perri and her disability support service provider Onemda agreed she was ready to enter open employment, tasking SDET to find her a job where she could thrive.

Finding Perri’s perfect fit

The team got to know Perri – her likes and dislikes, her individual needs and what really sparked joy in her life. It didn’t take long for SDET to realise that Belgravia Leisure, which runs Aquarena in Templestowe, would be the perfect fit for Perri. With its vibrant and friendly atmosphere, the team knew that Perri would blossom there.

In collaboration, CVGT Employment, Onemda, Belgravia Leisure and Perri were able to customise a position that would suit her skills and interests – The Deck Aquarena café assistant.

Perri starts work – she’s loving it and so is her manager

Perri started working at the cafe in May 2022. Within a few months, her hours increased, and she has never been happier.

Perri is such a great help to us. She can knock out so many tasks. She really enjoys cleaning and helping so much. It really makes work a lot easier.

Felicia Heath
Aquarena Café manager

Perri’s co-workers thoroughly enjoy working with her

Perri’s positive attitude and infectious smile have made her a popular member of the team and she’s loved by all who encounter her.

“I like how passionate she is about what she does,” café co-worker Georgia says about working with Perri. “She always has a smile on her face which is quite infectious to all her work colleagues and to the customers. I could not imagine Perri not being here.”

The importance of workplace diversity

Perri’s job journey highlights the importance of meaningful employment for people with a disability. It shows the significant contribution that people with a disability make in the workplace.

It has been great for us. I think it all comes down to the fact that we had the ability to work with CVGT – to explain things and to also keep Perri included in the process. To ensure Perri is a part of the team.

Bobby Savic
Aquarena Leisure Centre manager

Continuing to support Perri

SDET continues to support Perri, her employer and her work colleagues. They touch base regularly to educate Perri on new tasks; as well as the cafe team on how to support her in the learning process.

“Repetition is key. Taking the time to take slow moments, to learn new skills or to reinforce skills – remembering we need to take more time to help Perri,” manager Felicia says. “As soon as she starts to get into the pattern, she is so good. Picking things up and taking the initiative to get the task done – it has been good.” Since starting her new role, Perri has taken everything in her stride and is thoroughly enjoying working at the Aquarena.

What Perri had to say

We sent our SDET Administration Officer Jamie out to visit her. Here’s what Perri had to say about working as a café assistant…

Connect with CVGT Employment

If you have a disability and would love help finding your dream job, get in touch with us.

We urge all employers to consider the benefits of a diverse workforce – and we are here to help you make that happen.

Call 132 848 or visit cvgt.com.au to find out more.