From preparing meeting rooms to keeping supplies stocked, Sophia Bowden plays a practical role in the day-to-day running of Apprenticeship Support Australia – WA (ASA)
As our Admin Support Officer, Sophia, who lives with Down syndrome, is building her workplace skills and confidence while helping colleagues across the organisation.
Her experience offers employers an insight into how inclusive recruitment and ongoing support can create opportunities for individuals and strengthen a team.
Recognising strengths through recruitment
ASA Apprenticeship Administration Manager Candice Mallon said Sophia’s recruitment involved a formal interview and standard employment processes, with support provided throughout recruitment and induction.
“We still had a formal interview with Sophia and went through questions to see how she would fit with our culture, and there was the standard employment contract process as well,” she said.
Sophia’s role encompasses data entry, kitchen and stationery stocktakes, restocking supplies and setting up meeting rooms. Alongside learning these tasks, she has been getting to know her colleagues.
“Sophia’s working well with the team. She gets to know people in the kitchen in the morning. They come up and have a chat, and yeah, she’s asking questions and going really well,” Candice said.
Everyday connections make a difference
The impact of Sophia’s employment extends beyond the tasks she completes. Everyday conversations and working together have helped colleagues build connections and broaden their understanding of disability.
“I think it gives people maybe some exposure they wouldn’t have had in the past and sort of breaks down those barriers,” Candice said.
“It just helps to promote that inclusive environment.”
Sophia’s contribution to ASA demonstrates the value of recognising individual capabilities and supporting people to participate in the workplace.
Candice’s message to other employers is to be open to inclusive employment and the contribution a new team member can make.
“Employers shouldn’t be afraid to embrace inclusive employment,” she said. It’s a great addition to your workforce, and something that we really believe in and will continue to do.”
