CoAct VisAbility helps Rhys find a new job and a new purpose

In the heart Nedlands, nestled just off a busy road, works Rhys the baker. A quiet achiever who enjoys nothing more than working with dough!

Embracing opportunities

Living with Filipy Syndrome, Rhys has a sensory disability. But this has not deterred Rhys from pursuing his passions. When he finished up with his previous employer, he reached out to the team at CoAct VisAbility for some help finding a new role. Rhys started off working around 10 hours per week, but his skill and dedication quickly earned him a steady 20-30 hours a week.

A Love for Baking

Rhys’ love for baking reaches back to times spent with mum in the kitchen, teaching him the basics of cooking. This early exposure ignited a lifelong passion, which he now gets to nurture every day at work. Taking into consideration Rhys’ experience and interest in baking, the CoAct VisAbility team reached out to Eric at La Galette. Eric, the owner and head pastry chef, is dedicated to creating a happy and inclusive work environment, regularly employing people with disabilities.

At La Galette, Rhys thrives without the need for any special setup. His dedication and eagerness to learn are evident in his work. Beyond the usual loaves and baguettes, Rhys has expanded his repertoire to include shortbread crusts, puff pastry, brioche, and croissant doughs. His curiosity and willingness to learn new techniques make him a valued member of the team.

What Rhys enjoys most about his role is the quiet and focus it allows. Perhaps the best thing is that he doesn’t have to start so early, which fits perfectly with his routine of an early morning run to kickstart his day.

Finding purpose and joy

For Rhys, having a job means more than just an income; it gives him a sense of purpose and gets him out of the house. He’s learning new skills and is appreciated by the wider team. It’s also building his independence. As he lives nearby, most mornings Rhys is able to walk to work or catch the bus.

A supportive environment

Eric, Rhys’ boss, believes that a happy work environment is more important than making money. This philosophy is evident in the way La Galette operates, fostering a space where people enjoy coming to work. Eric’s approach has created a supportive atmosphere that allows employees like Rhys to thrive and find joy in their daily tasks.

Rhys’ story shows how a supportive and inclusive workplace can transform lives. CoAct VisAbility bridges the gap between employers ready to diversify their workforce, and job seekers with a disability.

Are you or someone you know looking for work?