Lisa is one of those co-workers who barely say much but when they do, everyone listens. She is kind, and smart, has a contagious smile and always incredibly generous with her time. She also holds the reputations as Team EmployAbilities best Vietnamese spring rolls, roller-er! To say we all love working with Lisa, would be an understatement. And we know that her candidates feel the same way too. 

Lisa’s journey with Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) has come full circle, from being a recipient of support services to now serving as a dedicated Employment Coach for the EmployAbility team. Her personal experience, combined with her professional background as a social worker, makes her a compassionate and highly effective advocate for others navigating the complexities of finding meaningful employment, especially when it comes to her outstanding negotiation and communication skills. 

After facing the challenges of her own spinal cord injury, Lisa’s role as an Employment Coach sees her empower individuals with spinal and neurological conditions to reclaim their careers and their sense of independence.  

In 2018, Lisa was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, a serious condition that forced her heart to work extra hard to pump blood through her lungs. To manage this condition, doctors recommended a lung transplant. However, upon waking two months after the surgery, she was met with unexpected news; “The first thing the doctors said to me was that there were complications with the transplant surgery; spinal strokes had resulted in a spinal cord injury, which meant that I would be unable to feel anything from my chest down. They went on to say that I would no longer be able to walk, that I would need full-time care, and that I may not be able to work again or have children,” Lisa recalls. 

For over four years, Lisa has attended NeuroMoves, (SCIA exercise and therapy service) and she credits the therapists there with helping her defy her initial medical prognosis. While she is a paraplegic who primarily uses a wheelchair, NeuroMoves has helped to strengthen her legs, and progress from using a walker to a walking cane. 

Lived Experience is certainly a title Lisa can use without question!  

“When you have been through a change yourself, the last thing you want is to deal with are professionals who simply don’t understand your world or lack emotional sensitivities”, says Lisa. “Which is why my unique understanding of the physical and emotional challenges faced by those with spinal cord injuries allows me to connect with our clients on a deeply personal level. I know firsthand the doubts and fears that can arise when contemplating a return to the workforce, and I use my insight to help clients overcome these barriers. 1% forward is better than nothing when you are trying” 

Everyone deserves to feel valued and capable, no matter what challenges they face. 

Lisa’s ability to combine empathy with practical strategies has proven invaluable to her clients. She works closely with them to identify their skills, interests, and goals, helping to tailor job searches and develop resumes that highlight their strengths. Her guidance extends beyond the job search; she also helps clients navigate workplace accommodations and advocates for flexible working arrangements that meet their needs. 

Lisa’s impact extends far beyond the individual clients she serves. By fostering confidence and independence, she is helping to build a community where people with spinal and neurological conditions can thrive, both personally and professionally. 

When you’ve made that brave decision to put yourself out into the job market, email us at EmployAbility@scia.org.au to find out more about EmployAbility Employment training program.