STEPS Work Mates participant Will has always shown a creative flair, and it only took a simple conversation to uncover a new path forward – one that would allow Will to explore his artistic talents while making new connections in his community.
When Will first connected with Carl, his new Employment Support Coach, they had no idea just how transformative the day would be.
After speaking with Will and understanding his employment goals, Carl prepared a session on running a micro-business, knowing that Will was passionate about art and interested in selling stickers featuring his designs.
The pair spent the first part of their session discussing what it takes to start and manage a small business. Afterwards, Carl asked if he could see some of Will’s artwork.
“I was blown away,” Carl said. “I did not expect to see that level of quality and style.”
Together, the pair visited the Sunshine Plaza shopping centre to look at how surf fashion and streetwear brands use artwork and graphic design across their clothing and accessories. They also discussed how products are made, what they cost to produce, and how businesses bring creative ideas to market.
Their research continued with visits to a local skate shop and surfboard retailer, where they spoke with staff about the artwork featured on the boards. During these conversations, they were encouraged to speak with a shaper, a craftsperson who designs and creates surfboards.
Will was curious to learn more, and with Carl’s help, researched the profession before finding a local shaper close to Will’s home. They visited the workshop and met shaper Steve-o, who generously shared his knowledge and answered their questions about the design and manufacturing process.
Carl mentioned Will’s artistic talent and showed examples of his designs to Steve-o, who immediately offered Will an exciting opportunity: he would love to feature Will’s artwork on one of his surfboards. He donated a blank white surfboard to Will and asked him to transform it into a one-of-a-kind piece.
Will got to work and created a brilliantly creative and unique surfboard, which is pictured above. The completed board will be raffled, with proceeds donated to several local charities, including STEPS Pathways Charity.
Carl, Will, Steve-o, and everyone here at STEPS hope that this project will help showcase Will’s creativity to a wider audience and open doors to future design opportunities. Whether that leads to commissioned artwork, creative collaborations, or even the development of his own brand, the experience has already demonstrated what can happen when a person’s passion and strengths are recognised and encouraged.
Are you someone with a disability looking to reach your employment goals, or are you supporting someone who could benefit from employment support?
STEPS offers the Work Mates Program in Bundaberg, Cairns, Caloundra, Gympie, Hervey Bay, Hobart, Maroochydore, and Townsville.
Visit our Work Mates webpage to learn more and take the next step towards your professional goals.
