Power of Advocacy: Finding Purpose Through Inclusive Employment
Feeling empowered through work, disability advocate Renee Kelly is on a mission to spark change that reaches far and wide.
Disability advocacy is about more than raising voices. It is about creating real change.
From stronger policies to better public understanding, young disability advocates are leading the way.
In our Power of Advocacyseries, we highlight a new generation of disability advocates from across the country who are stepping up. They are bold. They are passionate. And they are breaking down barriers every single day.
For many, advocacy starts with lived experience. For Renee Kelly, that experience has turned into a powerful drive to support others.
Meet Renee: A Disability Advocate for Inclusive Employment
Renee joined Endeavour Foundation in January as a Reports Administration Assistant. Her work includes booking candidates, transcribing interviews, preparing reports and managing templates across sites.
Full of enthusiasm, Renee enjoys learning new skills and enjoys the variety of her role. This is her first full-time, permanent job.
For Renee, that means more than financial stability. The job has boosted her confidence and independence and helped her to forge genuine connections.
“Working gives you a sense of purpose. It gives you meaning,” she said.
“This has been life-changing for me.”
A friend suggested Renee connect with Endeavour Foundation, knowing she was looking for meaningful work. That advice changed her life.
Advocating for People with Disability
Renee is passionate about advocating for disability services and employment. She knows people with disability have talent and skills to offer, but many employers still hesitate.
“Endeavour Foundation embraced me with open arms, and I want others to have that same chance,” she said.
Renee recently shared her story at Endeavour Foundation’s head office, speaking to NDIS Minister Jenny McAllister and other government leaders.
It was a significant moment for Renee, who wants to do more public speaking and continue her role as a disability advocate.
“It was great to be able to share my story and thank everyone who has supported me. I would not have achieved this without them,” she said.
As a young person with vision impairment, Renee understands the barriers that remain. High unemployment for people with vision impairment highlights the ongoing importance of disability advocacy.
She wants more workplaces to follow Endeavour Foundation’s lead and provide purposeful, permanent work.
Disability Advocacy in Action
At Endeavour Foundation, we believe genuine disability advocacy begins with offering meaningful opportunities.
From training to employment and leadership, we help young people build skills and achieve their goals.
Renee’s story shows how inclusive employment benefits both people with disability and entire communities.
With the right support for people with disability, young leaders like Renee can change what is possible.
And her long-term goal?
“I want to keep thriving and enjoying work every day,” she said.
“I would love to be here for the next 80 years!”
Be Part of the Change
Endeavour Foundation is proud to stand with and champion disability advocates who are shaping a more inclusive future.
Learn more about our disability services and how we are working with young people across Australia to break down barriers and open doors.
Or discover how we support disability advocacy efforts.
If you have any questions about what we do and how we support people with disability to reach their full potential, get in touch with us today.
Reach your Goals with Endeavour Foundation
No matter if you want a job, learn life skills, live independently, or speak up for yourself, we are here to help you every step of the way.
Our services empower people with disability to unleash their full potential.
Enquire today.