During our last school holidays, a group of young people who are blind or have low vision came together for a dynamic day of learning and career exploration as part of Vision Australia’s Ready, Set, Work! program.
Designed to support confidence, independence and employment readiness, the event offered participants the opportunity to gain practical tools, connect with peers and begin shaping their career journeys.
A day with purpose and impact
From the moment the program began, the atmosphere was full of energy and aspiration. Participants arrived dressed in smart casual attire, ready to take on the day. They kicked things off by setting personal goals and sharing their reasons for attending, building rapport and a shared sense of purpose.
With the help of interactive tools like the Life Ready Hub and a career survey, the group explored potential job pathways and imagined what their futures could look like.
Learning through lived experience
The group heard from speakers with personal and professional insights into navigating the world of work with low vision. Presenters shared tips on topics like self-advocacy, workplace expectations, job applications and interview preparation. These conversations were grounded in real-world experience, making them both relatable and empowering.
Participants also took part in practical communication workshops, including making professional phone calls and writing polished emails - skills essential to thriving in any workplace.
Building skills for success
During a resume-writing session, participants explored what makes a strong job application stand out. They discussed how to talk about their vision impairment in ways that highlight their strengths and problem-solving skills.
A shared lunch provided a relaxed setting to practise informal networking and social confidence. To wrap up the day, each young person created a personal action plan, setting a goal related to their future employment and taking steps to follow up after the session.
What participants said
Feedback from the day was overwhelmingly positive:
- “I liked the variety of activities and speakers that helped us prepare for work.”
- “I learned to always ask for feedback after interviews.”
- “The resume tips and professional advice really helped me feel more confident.”
- “It was great to hear from people who have been through this and succeeded.”
A shared commitment
Ready, Set, Work! continues to show how meaningful career preparation can be when built on accessibility, confidence and real-world insight. It was a privilege to support this group of young people as they take steps toward their future goals, and we can’t wait to see where they go next.
