Forbes mature age student City Smith who is on a mission to make a real difference in disability care, thanks to her training at TAFE NSW.
Forbes local and TAFE NSW student Cindy Smith, a proud Dharawal woman, is using her education as a powerful tool to empower people with disabilities to express their desires and gain independence.
Armed with her Certificate III in Individual Support, now pursuing Certificate IV in Disability Support, she is on a mission to help her clients break free from rigid schedules that often limit their true needs.
This week, National Careers Week, is a timely reminder of the urgent demands for skilled disability support workers, projected to increase by 128,000 jobs by 2025.
Ms Smith credits her training at TAFE NSW for enabling her to go beyond basic care and provide referrals and support to her clients.
“My qualifications and skills drive my passion to advocate for flexibility and ensure my clients can engage in experiences that reflect their interests and life preferences.
“I want to elevate the level of care and show that life is more than daily routines.
By thinking outside the box and seeking the right resources, they can pursue interests and expand their activities,” Ms Smith said.
She has progressed her career at Currajong Disability Service in Parkes since her journey with TAFE NSW, caring for her clients with respect and dignity, and ensuring they have a voice in their care.
Through her practical learnings at TAFE NSW, Ms Smith witnessed how the right referrals can significantly impact the lives of people with disabilities, enhancing their mental health, building social networks and even leading to successful careers or businesses. Ms Smith aspires to further her studies in mental health and community support with TAFE NSW.