Sydney Employment Development ServiceJess Irwin
Jess Irwin started with SEDS as a TTW client. A very determined young woman, Jess was not going to let her disability get in the way of working. Jess began her TTW program by attending desktop publishing at Ourimbah TAFE. Travelling by taxi from Umina each day, Jess was fortunate to receive a Spine Care scholarship to assist with travel costs whilst she was studying. Later in the year, Jess was also awarded the Spastic Centre Joey Mittaga Award.
Jess complimented her study by undertaking work experience, firstly at Ashton Scholastics, and then at Created for Life, (CFL) the photographic lab that is part of the Ken Duncan group. This year Jess has formally commenced working for Ken Duncan at CFL 2 days per week. Paul Taylder, her manager at CFL, has supported Jess in converting from a work experience placement to paid work. Jess has also benefited from the Work Place Modification Scheme, funded by DEWR, who have provided funding for extensive modifications for Jess, making working life easier by improving the access and by funding the required assistive technology.
On the days that Jess is not at CFL, she is busy. She is continuing at TAFE to complete a diploma in web design and is developing her own business Dare2BU. Jess' specialities include photography, graphic and web design. These days you can barely see her without her camara. You can read all about Jess on her website.
http://www.dare2bu.net.au/
© Jess Irwin - Queensland River Scene
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