When Jourdi first came to Key Community Group, she was unemployed, struggling with her confidence, and managing the ongoing impacts of Arnold Chiari syndrome and partial hearing loss. After leaving a previous role where she felt unsupported, the thought of returning to a team-based workplace felt overwhelming.

Like many people entering the IEA program, Jourdi wanted to work, but more than that, she wanted to feel safe, capable, and confident again. She needed support that looked beyond job searching and focused on her whole wellbeing.

That’s where her Employment Consultant, Jess, came in.

Rebuilding confidence through personalised support

From their first meetings, Jess focused on understanding Jourdi as a person, her health needs, her anxieties, her strengths, and her hopes for the future. With consistent encouragement, reassurance, and practical problem-solving, Jess helped Jourdi begin rebuilding her self-belief.

“Jess’s positivity and encouragement made a huge difference,” said Jourdi. “I often struggle with overthinking and jumping to worst-case scenarios, but when that happens, I know I can turn to Jess. She listens without judgment and helps me find calm and clarity. Her encouragement has helped me believe in myself again, both professionally and personally.”

Together, they set clear, meaningful goals focused on independence and stability: securing employment, gaining reliable transport, and building the financial confidence to travel overseas.

Achieving sustainable employment and independence

In May 2025, Jourdi achieved her first goal, securing meaningful employment that aligned with her health needs and lifestyle. The role gave her structure, purpose, and a renewed sense of capability.

Soon after starting work, Jourdi faced a significant challenge when her car began to fail. Concerned about her ability to get to work, she considered leaving her job. Instead of stepping back, Jess worked alongside her to explore solutions, encouraging Jourdi to persevere, plan ahead, and save toward a replacement.

Just one month later, in June, Jourdi proudly purchased a brand-new car, a major milestone that strengthened her independence and removed a key barrier to maintaining employment.

By September, she had reached her third goal: saving enough to take a long-dreamed-of trip to the United States.

Employment as a foundation for wellbeing

For Jourdi, the benefits of work extended far beyond financial security.

“I’ve been able to work on my confidence, take care of my health, and balance my personal life while maintaining work,” she said. “I’m happier within myself and in my relationships because of the support I’ve been given and the new outlook on life I have.”

Her growth was also recognised in the workplace. Just four months into her role, Jourdi’s team leader nominated her for a values-based award, acknowledging her commitment, reliability, and positive contribution to the team.

“I feel more financially secure, without the constant pressure of overworking just to stay afloat,” Jourdi shared. “My partner and I are now taking a three-week overseas trip, something I never thought possible. I feel grounded, capable, and confident in who I am.”

The power of human connection

When Jess first met Jourdi, she had very little confidence and was constantly second-guessing herself. Today, she is confident, motivated, and actively planning for the future.

For Jourdi, what stands out most about her experience with Key Community Group is the human connection at the heart of the support.

“Jess shows up with kindness, positivity, and humour,” she said. “She makes even the hardest conversations feel lighter. Talking to her always feels safe and supportive.”

More than employment support

Jourdi’s journey is a powerful reminder that employment is about more than earning an income. It’s about purpose, confidence, independence, and the belief that a fulfilling future is possible.

At Key Community Group, our IEA consultants go above and beyond because we understand that sustainable employment changes lives, not just pay slips.

With the right support, encouragement, and belief, people like Jourdi don’t just find jobs. They rediscover confidence, overcome barriers, and build futures they’re proud of.