Nadia was born and raised in Bundaberg and her career as a support worker allows her to give back to a community that she loves.
“I have tried to leave,” said Nadia. “But something always pulls me back.”
Nadia joined Open Minds Bundaberg in 2021 and provides in-home support and community access services for clients with mental illness and psychosocial disability, and while she still considers herself green to the industry, she isn’t new to caring for others.
Prior to joining Open Minds, Nadia worked as a dental assistant for Queensland Health, which saw her provide public dental care for children on-site at schools.
She also commenced studies in child protection.
In her new role, Nadia supports a client who requires constant care, so most of her time on the clock occurs while others are asleep.
“I surprised myself with how much I enjoy the night shifts,” said Nadia.
“My children are older, and it suits my lifestyle. I like the idea of coming home at 9 o’clock in the morning while everyone else is going to work.”
For Nadia, the most rewarding part of being a support worker is being invited into a client’s world.
“You genuinely care for them,” said Nadia.
“You want them to be happy. You want them to succeed. You want them to be comfortable in their own body and accept themselves.”
She also loves seeing clients lead a fulfilling life.
“My favourite part is seeing them smiling and laughing. Or the moments they feel proud of themselves for an achievement. They are awe-inspiring human beings.”
Nadia is one of 17 support workers that make up a tight-knit team at Open Minds Bundaberg.
“We’re all working towards the same goal, the same outcome,” said Nadia.
“We bounce ideas off each other and talk things through if we see something that isn’t working.”
For Nadia, finding fulfillment comes easily through support work.
“Seeing a client be at peace with their disability, as much as they can, is amazing. I’m proud to say that I work for Open Minds.”
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