Chris Manuel’s employment journey with Interact Australia* proves that empowering unseen leaders living with a disability can transform workplaces.

Chris started his career in manufacturing and warehousing, a path he followed since the age of 17. However, a permanent shoulder injury sustained from repetitive tasks led him to reassess his future when he was 25.

“Due to the strenuous nature of the work, I sustained a rotator cuff injury. To this day they don’t know the full extent of the injury other than it’s permanent. I had to stop my work very abruptly, leaving me stuck with no skills,” Chris said.

Despite the physical setback, and the accompanying anxiety and depression, Chris was determined to find a new direction.

“When that happened, I was sort of down in the dumps for quite a while and ended up on Centrelink and accessing a Disability Employment Services (DES) provider because at the time I was still young and still wanted to pursue some level of a career.”

With the support of a DES provider, Chris enrolled in a Diploma of Legal Services and successfully completed the course. He was struggling to find work in the legal field when his employment consultant encouraged him to pursue a Certificate III in Individual Support instead.

This decision ultimately led him to Interact, a not-for-profit organisation which supports and empowers people with disability into employment. “I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do but I knew I wanted to help people living with a disability and use my skills to enable and support them,” he said.

“I was given the opportunity to interview for a Recruitment Partner role with Interact and even though I wasn’t successful, (Interact CEO) Jamie was impressed with my interview and could see that I was really passionate about helping people with disability, so they found a role for me within the business.”

Chris began his journey at Interact in a Workforce Administration role, recruiting support workers. His passion and dedication did not go unnoticed. Within two and a half years, Chris, now 31, progressed to a Workforce Coordinator position, managing a team of three and overseeing national recruitment responsibilities.

“I enjoy being able to go home every day knowing I’ve done everything in my power to make sure someone’s received the support they need,” Chris said.

He credits the mentorship and supportive culture at Interact for his growth. “Interact has been amazing. They’ve given me opportunities to learn and develop my skills. I also don’t think I’ve ever worked anywhere where the CEO will come out on the floor and ask staff if they need help with something. It has really developed my leadership style because if he’s willing to do that then everyone should be willing to do that,” he said.

Chris advocates for greater understanding and inclusivity in the workplace, urging companies to see beyond disabilities. “I think the biggest problem now is people look at someone who may have a disability, they see it as a roadblock. There needs to be a lot more education on disabilities because not everything is a barrier,” he said.

“A lot of the people we work with across all the Interact offices have disabilities and they are thriving in their roles.”

Reflecting on his journey, Chris advises others living with a disability and seeking career changes to be honest and upfront about their passions and abilities. “Don’t try to hide yourself. Be real and show what you’re passionate about. If you do that, people will see your worth,” he said.

Chris is proud of his career transformation and hopes to continue making a difference at Interact. “I’m really proud I was able to get myself out of a slump and into a successful career. I want to keep progressing within the company, leading and helping people, whether that’s client-facing or behind the scenes.”

Interact is committed to providing opportunities for people with disabilities and advocating for greater understanding and inclusivity in the workplace. “Chris has an incredible work ethic and genuine care for our clients and support workers. His story is a perfect example of what can be achieved when people are given a chance to prove their abilities” CEO Jamie Barden said.

*Interact is part of the IntoWork Group.

About 2024 International Day of People with Disabilities (IDPD)

The International Day of People with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed annually on December 3rd. The theme for this year is “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.” This theme recognises the important role that persons with disabilities play in creating a more inclusive and sustainable world for all. It also emphasises the importance of the participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes that affect their lives.

Media Contact: Eilish Massie, 0448 771 045 [email protected]