Determined mum proves age is no barrier

BEING a single mum in her 40s, with three children and multiple jobs, Naomi Thomas was determined to achieve something more for herself.

After overcoming initial self-doubt and various barriers, she earned a Diploma of Disability Work in 2015 at the Encompass College of Education and Training.

“It felt like a million dollars when I received my certificate,” Naomi said.

She then decided to push herself a bit further and pursue an advanced diploma qualification.

“I have been doing support work for more than 20 years now,” she said.

“I realised that if I wanted to see change happen in this industry, I should not wait for others to do it.

“I knew it was going to be challenging, but I wanted to help change things and make life easier for both support staff and clients.”

In December 2016, Naomi finished her Advanced Diploma of Disability, with her eyes set on becoming a supervisor one day.

Unknowingly, she had inspired her daughter Katelyn, 19, to study disability work.

Early this year, Katelyn enrolled in the course and in September, finished her Certificate IV in Disability.

“I am very proud of her,” Naomi said.

“She is not used to doing assignments, it could be a bit daunting for her at times, but I was always there supporting her, reminding her how accomplished she would feel when she finishes the course.”

Naomi said the trainers and staff at the Encompass College of Education and Training were absolutely supportive.

“You are guided the whole way through and they are very flexible,” she said.

“Being with other adults, the environment is just really nice – you have a laugh.

“I developed the confidence to talk in class, which was something I thought I could not do.

“I learned how to make Powerpoint presentations and I built friendships too.”

Naomi said she highly recommended Encompass for training.

“They celebrate with you, they guide you, they encourage you and they believe in you,” she said.

“Just because you’re older, doesn’t mean that you can’t.

“I did it, and so can you!”

Encompass College of Education and Training Manager Debi Hope said seeing people achieve where they initially doubted themselves was a great feeling.