Choosing herself and chasing her dreams: Sue’s story
Sue* has spent most of her life working. From picking grapes at just 14 years old, to years spent in kitchens as a cook, work had always been part of her identity.
But after a difficult experience in her previous workplace, combined with some serious health challenges, Sue needed time to reset and rebuild her confidence.
Meeting her Career Coach
Through Sonder’s Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) service, Sue began working with Career Coach Jamie to explore her next steps.
When Sue first walked through the doors at Sonder, she admits she felt nervous.
“In the beginning, I was petrified to start with a new job search provider,” she said. “But then I met Jamie, my career coach. Jamie was so inviting and understanding. He explained how it all works and I was gobsmacked by the potential – for the first time ever.”
For Sue, the difference was immediate.
“I am so at ease with Sonder,” she said. “I know I’m being looked after, understood, and not pushed into anything that I don’t want to do.”
During her first appointment, Sue shared a clear vision for her future: within the next 12 months, she hopes to secure a role in the mining industry as a FIFO cook and cleaner. Cooking has always been important to Sue. It’s something she speaks about with pride, tracing her passion back to her Italian roots.
During appointments, Jamie has been working with Sue on practical steps to move her closer to that goal. Together, they have spent time researching potential FIFO roles and exploring what employers look for when hiring cooks and cleaners in the mining industry. Jamie has also encouraged Sue to connect with people she knows who already work in the sector, helping her gain valuable insights and advice about entering the field.
They have also worked on mapping out a progression plan, creating a checklist of steps that will help Sue prepare for the transition into FIFO work.
“We treat each appointment as a stepping stone,” Jamie said. “The aim is always to leave with something new, whether that’s information, a new strategy, or more confidence in taking the next step.”
Facing a fear
To reach her goal, Sue knows she will need to pass a pre-employment medical and be physically ready for the demands of FIFO work.
Determined to make it happen, she had already started making significant lifestyle changes. With support from a dietician, she had improved her diet. At the time of writing, she has lost an incredible 20 kilograms.
During their early appointments, Jamie saw an opportunity to build on Sue’s momentum – not just in terms of employment, but across her overall wellbeing.
“The great thing about our IEA service is that it allows us to look at the whole person,” Jamie said. “We can support people with their career goals while also helping them build the confidence, health, and stability they need to succeed in the workplace.”
With his background in the fitness industry, including working with people managing chronic conditions and rehabilitation, Jamie suggested that building confidence in a gym environment could help Sue continue strengthening both her health and her readiness for future work.
“FIFO work can be physically demanding, so building strength, stamina, and overall health is a key part of preparing for that pathway,” Jamie said. “Even if you pass the medical, you still need to be able to thrive in that environment.”
At first, Sue was hesitant, and worried about what others at the gym might think.
But her determination to keep moving towards her goal was stronger than her fear.
At their next appointment, Jamie met Sue somewhere a little different: the local gym in Woodcroft.
Sue remembers waiting outside, battling nerves. She had felt anxious all morning, but with Jamie beside her, she walked through the doors.
Jamie supported Sue through the sign-up process. Then, he showed her some basic exercises to help her build strength and confidence so she could continue attending independently.
During the session, something unexpected – and immediately reassuring – happened: another gym-goer approached Sue and offered words of encouragement.
“We all start somewhere,” they told her. “Good on you for being here.”
That moment helped shift Sue’s perspective. Instead of feeling judged, she felt supported.
With Jamie’s guidance, Sue completed her first gym session and left feeling proud of what she had achieved. It was yet another step towards the future she wants.
Jamie says Sue’s determination is what stands out most.
“She pushes herself even when things feel uncomfortable. That’s what’s going to help her reach the goals she’s set for herself.”
Looking ahead
For Sue, her experience at the gym wasn’t just about exercise. It was about proving to herself that she could do hard things again.
Jamie’s support has helped strengthen her motivation and self-belief.
“Jamie is tough on me because he believes in me,” she said. “But he is so honest and awesome. I’m glad we met.”
Today, Sue continues working towards her goal of FIFO employment. She’s improving her health, building confidence, and working with Jamie on the practical steps needed to enter the industry.
She also has another goal for the future: purchasing a home for her family.
Through the support of the IEA program and her career coach, Sue says she has found something that had been missing for a long time – the belief that her goals are possible, and that she has the strength to reach them!
About Inclusive Employment Australia
Sue’s story is just one example of how IEA is helping people across metropolitan Adelaide take steps towards meaningful employment.
Delivered by Sonder as part of the Federal Government’s IEA program, the service provides tailored support for people whose mental health challenges may impact their ability to find or maintain work.
As one of South Australia’s largest providers of mental health services, Sonder is uniquely positioned to help participants with mental health challenges build confidence, find fulfilling work, and thrive in inclusive workplaces.
Participants receive one-on-one career coaching, practical job search support, peer mentoring, and ongoing assistance once they enter employment – alongside access to Sonder’s broader mental health and wellbeing services to support both their recovery and their long-term employment success.
To learn more about Inclusive Employment Australia or register your interest, visit sonder.net.au/inclusive-employment-australia. You can also contact our friendly team on (08) 7093 1801 or via info@sonderIEA.net.au.
–
Inclusive Employment Australia is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.
Sonder is delivering IEA in partnership with the Australian Refugee Association, supporting people from refugee backgrounds, and OARS Community Transitions, supporting people with justice involvement.
–
*The name of the client has been changed for this story.