In the heart of Bundaberg, the vibrant community at Bundaberg Learning and Lifestyle (L&L) hub comes alive, particularly through its engaging drama program. One of its shining stars is Ian Scholz, who joined our #TeamPossible community in 1986.
From getting into character on camera to building character off-screen, Ian’s journey reflects his personal growth and passion for performing, fuelled by the supportive environment of his L&L.
Five years ago, Ian moved out of his Supported Independent Living (SIL) home to live with his sister and carer, Joan Savic. She has witnessed firsthand how the L&L has enriched Ian’s quality of life and relationships.
“Ian is so focused on what he is learning at the L&L that all medical and other appointments must be made on his days off where possible as he does not want to miss a day from ‘work’ as he refers to it – even for family visitors,” she shared.
When Ian gets home from a day at the hub, he can’t wait to tell me what he did and we have a good laugh about the ‘bloopers’ during filming.
“We also do a lot of research together on characters he plays, like Hannibal Smith from ‘The A-Team’ because he wants to do a good job with his character and not let his mates down. He really enjoys the team building aspects of performing.”
Joan also emphasised how the hub’s drama program not only fuels Ian’s passion for acting but also significantly improves his interpersonal skills, cognitive ability and speech.
“His mind is alert and doesn’t wander as much as it used to,” she said.
He even knows his lines and has also gotten better at following directions, especially when he films in front of a green screen, which requires a bit of imagination.
On his days off, Ian loves going shopping with Joan and proudly shares his experiences at the L&L with everyone he meets.
“Because his speech has improved, people can now understand him without me having to repeat what he says too often,” Joan noted.
The drama program has also brought Ian and his L&L friends closer, who admire his natural confidence. He strives to instil confidence in them too, stepping in to help his friends when they get stage fright.
“I help them calm down when they get nervous,” he said. “I feel so proud when they say their lines well.”
Site Manager, Nicole Novak, praised how the program brings out the best in people and their support in each other.
“Everyone in the program encourages each other,” she said.
It’s all just fun, and they celebrate each other’s progress without judgment.
Ian’s creativity extends beyond the L&L. Inspired by the drama program, he collaborates with Joan to create short films at home, which further develop his skills in photography and video editing.
“We all love how Endeavour Foundation has given Ian purpose in life. Even though he has a disability, he doesn’t think he has!” Joan said.
Ian brings his culinary talents home as well, gained from the hub’s cooking program! His favourite dishes to cook are pork chops and potato bake.
Ian also stays mentally and physically active through various activities at L&L and in the community, including lawn bowls, fishing, team BBQs, and outings with his L&L friends to local op shops in search of costumes for their film projects.
Commenting on his sense of belonging at the L&L, Ian shared:
“It’s my second family,” he said. “It’s just beautiful at the L&L. I like being around nice people.
I am treated like an equal. They all believe in me.
“They help me when I want to get better at something, no matter what it is.”
This brings much comfort to Joan who emphasised how Ian’s support network has “made my role as a carer a lot easier.”
“We are so happy that Endeavour Foundation is keeping Ian young and happy in general and supporting him to engage with his community,” Joan said.
Upon turning 70 in June, Ian looks back on his journey with gratitude:
“Thank you, Endeavour Foundation,” he said.
You have made my life meaningful and enjoyable. If my parents were alive they would be very proud of me and of Endeavour Foundation for making all this possible.
Ian’s story highlights the positive outcomes that can be achieved when people are supported to pursue their passions and engage with their community. Through the drama program at Bundaberg L&L, Ian is not just performing on stage; he’s living life to the fullest.
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