We’ve been lucky to have had a number of amazing work experience interns put their hand up when it comes to providing office support.
Earlier this year, Tony and I (below) presented at the Cerebral Palsy Alliance (CPA) Chatswood, informing the organisation and its clients about our services, and from that meeting, Tilly (centre) expressed an interest in completing a work experience placement with us.
Over the past six weeks we’ve been graced with Tilly’s presence at Gig Buddies Sydney HQ. Prior to jetting off to England for sunnier climes, we caught up with her to discuss her experiences.
Why did you want to volunteer with Gig Buddies Sydney?
Tilly: Because I found that Gig Buddies is an organisation that is really helpful for others and they inspire me; I can relate to things they do, like helping people with disabilities. When I heard about Gig Buddies I was inspired by what Tony and Matt had to say and it relates to the things I like to do, like helping others and making sure they get friends who can help them.
I like to help people who can’t get out very much, to help them build their confidence and make sure they get the support they need. I feel that Gig Buddies is a place where all my interests are covered, like helping others and music.
How did you find out about Gig Buddies Sydney?
Tilly: I found out about it through a program I am doing at the moment through CPA. When I met Tony and Matt, who came in to talk to us about the organisation, I was inspired by what they told us and how they helped others with disabilities around Sydney.
You mention CPA. Can you briefly explain who they are, what they do and how long have you been with them?
Tilly: I’ve been with CPA for one year and will be with them next year as well. CPA is an organisation similar to Gig Buddies, but a bit different. They help people with disabilities get better jobs or get work experience. They do a bit of TAFE as well on Tuesdays for those who want to learn more about work and how to do things. I found out about CPA through friends of my parents whose son went to CPA and we thought it would be interesting.
What were you hoping to achieve from your work experience placement with Gig Buddies Sydney?
Tilly: I want to help others make friends and get out a lot more. I want to help people feel more confident about themselves and feel like they’ve got support, especially those who are socially isolated.
What do you feel like you learnt from your time at Gig Buddies Sydney?
Tilly: I feel like I’ve learnt quite a lot. When I went to the NRL game with Gig Buddies, seeing everyone around me enjoying themselves made me happy. There were a few gig buddies and volunteers who really stood out like they were having the time of their lives.
Did you learn new skills?
Tilly: I’ve learnt how to use different things, like the database and mapping, and learnt different ways of solving problems. I’ve learnt how to talk to people on the phone more appropriately and learnt how to interview people, which is what I’ve always wanted to do. I’ve always wanted to call people and make them feel welcomed.
What was the most enjoyable aspect?
Tilly: Going to events and seeing the gig buddies and volunteers looking happy.
And your goals for the future… do you feel like this might be leading to something?
Tilly: For quite a while I’ve wanted to help people and make them happy. I feel Gig Buddies will help me achieve my goal and put me in a position where I can help people, and make sure they get the support they need.
Tell us about your trip to the UK
Tilly: I’ll be going to England on Friday (27/5) by myself to visit family and friends and hopefully meet some new people. One thing I’m hoping to do is to go down to Brighton to meet the Gig Buddies team.
Matthew Collins
Gig Buddies Sydney Social Media Coordinator
matt@assistcom.org
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