Since joining STEPS in 2014, Bec has brought empathy, resilience and a people-first mindset to her role as HR Advisor. Her connection to the STEPS mission runs far deeper than her work; growing up with a mum who lives with a permanent disability shaped Bec’s understanding of barriers, advocacy and the power of opportunity, values that continue to guide her work to this day.
Compassion and community
Danielle delivers Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) skills training to beginner learners, many of whom are restarting their learning journey after periods of disruption or hardship. Much of her work takes place at the Venndale Drug and Rehabilitation Centre, where she creates culturally safe and trauma-informed learning experiences designed to meet each learner’s level and needs.
“My job isn’t just a checklist of lessons,” Danielle said. “It’s about building trust and helping people realise that they can learn. When someone starts believing in themselves, everything changes.”
Using visual cues, hands-on activities and a holistically supportive approach, Danielle empowers learners to develop skills they can use in everyday life.
The journey to STEPS
Bec’s desire to work in the disability sector stems from personal experience. When she was just 13 years old, her mum was involved in a car accident that left her permanently disabled and using a wheelchair. From a young age, Bec saw how challenging it could be for people with a disability to navigate systems that aren’t designed with them in mind.
“I always knew I wanted to work for an organisation that genuinely advocates for people with a disability,” Bec said.
After years working in hospitality and administrative roles, Bec came across a STEPS job listing. “It just felt right,” she said. From her first interview, she knew STEPS aligned with her values.
Growing into Human Resources
Bec joined STEPS as an Executive Admin Assistant and worked closely with volunteers. Over time, volunteer management merged with Human Resources, opening up a brand-new career path for her.
“I got a taste of HR and absolutely loved it, and I still do,” Bec said.
Since then, Bec has completed her Certificate IV in Human Resources and is currently studying for her diploma, supported every step of the way by STEPS. In her role as HR Advisor, Bec works closely with employees across the organisation, supporting everything from compliance to contracts.
As Bec says, “at its core, HR is about people.”
A love for people (and their cars)
What Bec enjoys most about her role is getting to know people, their stories, backgrounds and journeys.
“I love learning how people got to where they are now and being able to support them along the way,” she said.
Her professional goal is to continue growing as a senior HR Advisor, remaining hands-on and people-focused. She’s also passionate about helping teams better understand what HR does and encouraging staff to reach out.
Outside of work, Bec is a self-confessed “rev head” who spends her weekends rebuilding cars, alongside staying active through the gym and mountain biking.
From vision to reality
One of Bec’s most meaningful highlights at STEPS goes back to her very first interview, when she heard about the vision for STEPS Pathways College.
She witnessed the planning, the build, and the overwhelming support from the local community. She was also there to welcome Tom, STEPS Pathways College’s first student, and even helped him pick out the room to board in.
“Seeing how far STEPS Pathways College has come is incredible,” Bec said. “And there’s still so much more ahead.”
Because of STEPS, Bec says she feels comfortable being herself and proud to be part of an organisation that reflects her values.
About STEPS Spotlight
STEPS Spotlight is our way of celebrating the incredible people who make up the STEPS team.
Each month, we share the story of a staff member whose passion, dedication and unique journey help shape the heart of our organisation.
Stay tuned for more stories across the STEPS community, or in the meantime, revisit our previous profiles!
