Living with autism and ADHD has its challenges, but Benalla’s Andrew Stubbs is jumping every hurdle put in his way.
Despite receiving a disability support pension Andrew was eager to enter the workforce and around 12 months ago he visited APM Employment Services Benalla.
That decision has changed his life. He is now working full time in a role he loves.
He was even able to surprise his dad with a trip away for his birthday.
Andrew, 23, said the consultants at APM were amazing.
“They helped a lot when I first joined them,” Andrew said.
“They helped me figure out what my strengths were, what my skills are and helped me find the perfect job.”
That perfect job is with Munro and Sargeant Café at Benalla Art Gallery.
“I love working there,” he said.
“I have friendly colleagues and co-workers who are always there to help when I get stuck. The camaraderie is amazing.”
Andrew said the job had been life-changing.
“It’s helped me a lot,” he said.
"It’s helped me buy myself some things I really wanted. It’s helped me to be able to save up some money.
“Because of it I’m taking my dad up to Kempsey, Tamworth and Coffs Harbour.
“Dad’s a big Slim Dusty fan, so we’re going to the Slim Dusty museum, and the weather should be really nice.”
APM employment consultant Jenni Shedden said Andrew came in voluntarily to discuss if there was any help he could get to gain employment.
“He had a couple of roles before this one, that weren’t a good fit,” she said.
“But Munro and Sargeant is perfect. It’s a steady environment. There is a low staff turnover, and it’s a small team.
“We’ve noticed Andrew has gained a lot of confidence, and he’s awfully proud of himself.”