Community Solutions, through the Disability Employment Service (DES) program, are committed to discovering solutions for people to reach their employment goals.
By tailoring support to the interests and goals of people they support, they have helped Briony Large and Ricky Crump achieve long-term employment. Both now happily work for Reward Hospitality, and are closely mentored by Emma Buffini, Regional Sales Manager.
Read on to learn their stories.
Briony Large’s story
My name is Briony Large. Shortly after I completed a school-based traineeship, I decided to study a Bachelor of Arts because of my love of literature. During the eight years of part-time studying, I applied for a variety of different casual roles, however, it was not to eventuate into employment.
After a few of my last interviews were unsuccessful, I was feeling deflated. My Recruitment Partner from Community Solutions, Nikita Giles, had a delightful surprise in store. The right opportunity arrived out of the blue and my name was the first that the Recruitment Partners thought of for the role of Casual Hospitality Store Sales Consultant at Reward Hospitality, Mackay.
I’m extremely grateful to be given this opportunity and for the wonderful crew at Reward Hospitality to welcome me into the family. It took many years, and I thought it may never happen, but I’m so appreciative of all the support I have received along the way.
Briony’s mentor and Regional Sales Manager at Reward Hospitality, Emma Buffini was blown away at the level of talent she could recruit through Community Solutions and the DES program.
Briony was quite timid when she started working with us but coming into an environment with powerful female role models – she has just flourished
Emma Buffini
“She has settled in well and owns her day. She knows her role inside and out and is a valuable part of the team. She has really developed in her confidence and even asked for more responsibility.“
The sales industry can be a fast-paced environment to work in, but Emma was impressed with Briony’s go-getter attitude.
“This is a very hectic environment that we work in, there are a lot of loud people. So, for Briony to step into herself and show initiative early on in her role – and as an introvert – has really impressed us. She has now stepped up and manages her own area in the showroom.“
“She has done really well, we’re very proud of her.“
Ricky Crump’s story
My Name is Ricki Crump, I am 58 years old.
I came to Mackay approximately 12 months ago to find suitable employment, as I hadn’t been able to find anything with the agencies on the Sunshine Coast.
I have osteoarthritis in my lower back which restricts me from doing a few things and it makes it hard to find suitable employment… or so I thought. I contacted CoAct (Community Solutions) to see what they could do for me.
I was pleasantly surprised to find that they listened to my needs and desire to find that job that will get me through to retirement. Within a couple of weeks, they had found a position for me as a Warehouse Assistant/Forklift driver (exactly what I wanted!). I started the job with Reward Hospitality, and they understood my predicament as to what I could and couldn’t do, without discrimination.
I worked two days a week to start off with, being monitored by Reward Hospitality and Community Solutions. They always asked me how I was going and if I needed anything. I have now built that up to 5 days a week and I am loving my new outlook on life. Now I have self-worth and feel like I am contributing to society.
I strongly advise anyone looking for employment with physical or mental barriers to contact Community Solutions and have a chat with the people there, they are very friendly and approachable. I am sure they can help you find suitable employment.
This is the best job I have ever had in my life; I am thoroughly enjoying it.
Emma supported Ricky through his transition into the company and only wishes there was more people like him around!
If I had three of Ricky I would never have to come to work!
Emma Buffini
“Ricky is hardworking, he fit in straight away, he has got a great personality and is very loyal. Honestly, if I had three of him my business would be on fire. He is amazing.” she said
Reward Hospitality know a good worker when they find one and are investing in his future development to keep him on their books.
“Once Ricky gets to a stage in his working career where he will not be able to work the forklift anymore, we want to give him the tools to carry on with the company.” Emma said.
“Ricky is training on all our computer systems including admin, IT and invoicing. So far, he’s doing really well.”
Following a workplace shortage and lack of suitable candidates in Mackay, this was the first time Reward Hospitality had recruited through Community Solutions and the DES program.
“Mackay is very challenged in finding staff. There are aways lots of jobs advertised but there are not necessarily a lot of suitable applicants.” Emma said.
“When this came up as an option, I immediately wanted to explore it. I’m so glad I did because it has just turned out beautifully.
“I have had so much success with Briony and Ricky, I reached out to Community Solutions Townsville and recruited another person for our Townville store!”
Emma has seen a noticeable change in both Ricky and Briony since starting their new roles at Reward Hospitality.
They come to work with more confidence. They are peaceful, calm, and happy to be there
You can tell they are proud of themselves, and their sense of pride has grown.
They are both very valuable, very good team members.
“Ricky is also a talented artist – check out some of his work!”
News
View all
Director Election Expression of Interest
Are you in email overload?
Grant funding brings new life to Alex Hills L&L
BRACE proposed changes
Fire Services – Chubb Fire & Security is our new provider
