Friendship Blossoms Through Supported Employment
Have you ever imagined being in a job that truly suits you?
A place where you can build self-belief, feel at home and grow into the best version of yourself?
For Katie and Janaya, being in Supported Employment is more than work. It is a place where they learn new skills, boost their confidence and discover a sense of belonging that feels like family.
From mastering tasks to making lifelong friends, their story shows how disability employment opportunities can open doors to brighter futures.
The Yin and Yang of Mateship
Katie began working at one of our dedicated workplaces in Wacol, Brisbane. Here, people with disability take on paid, rewarding roles that match their skills and goals.
However, when Katie first started, she did not expect to gain a sister. But that is exactly how she describes her bond with Janaya.
“My partner is her best friend and when I came to work here, we just clicked.” Katie said.
Despite a ten-year age gap, their friendship blossomed quickly.
“She reminded me of my younger self – kind and nice.
“Age does not matter. She is my yin, and I am her yang. We balance each other.”
Work/Laugh Balance
Katie and Janaya often work side by side on the production line.
For them, work is not just about getting the job done to the highest quality, it is also about keeping each other motivated.
“When I am on her production line, we work on the machines together,” Katie explained.
“I am still in training, but I bring the energy and make her laugh.”
Katie has also discovered a love for supporting others.
“My Employment Coach, Tiarnie is amazing – she can see I have potential to be a leader,” Katie said.
“It is all about believing in yourself as well, knowing that you can do it. And I have come a long way”
Confidence Through Connection
Friendship at work has given Katie more than good company – it has boosted her confidence.
“I find it hard to make friends and have been burned before,” she admitted.
“But Janaya has been here for me through good and bad days. Having someone you trust makes work less scary.”
Break times are a highlight. “That is when we get to socialise,” Katie said with a smile.
“But honestly, the best thing is getting to see my best friend five days a week.”
Beyond the Workplace
Their connection extends outside work too.
From trips to the coast, to Halloween nights out, to TikTok dance sessions, the two friends are rarely short of adventures.
“She has even stayed over at my house for a party,” Katie laughed. “We always find ways to have fun together.”
“Having a best friend at work changes everything,” Katie said.
“It makes you feel welcome, safe and proud to be part of a team.”
A Sisterhood of Support
Katie’s Employment Coach, Tiarnie, sees their friendship as something truly special.
“They are like sisters,” Tiarnie said.
“They work so well together and always encouraging each other and celebrating their goals.
“The quality of their work speaks volumes too; they are dedicated to the work they do and the quality they put out.” Tiarnie said.
That support continues as Janaya works towards her next milestone – becoming a Line Assistant.
“I am so excited for her,” Katie said.
“She has stepped up and I love seeing her confidence grow.”
Their story shows that Supported Employment is more than just building job skills and earning money.
Independence, confidence and friendships turn a workplace into a community.
“If you want to achieve your dreams, this is the place to be!” Laughed Katie.
Find Your Path with Supported Employment
Work looks different for everyone – and that is exactly what makes it exciting.
Whether you are just starting out or ready for a new job, Endeavour Foundation is here to support you.
We help you grow your skills, reach your goals and celebrate each step along the way.
Our employment support programs open doors to meaningful work and greater independence.
From NDIS employment options to opportunities beyond the NDIS, we help you find the right fit for your strengths, interests and dreams.
Plus, getting started is easy. Are you ready to discover what is possible?
We’re hiring! Explore disability employment opportunities with Endeavour Foundation today.