Megan brings passion for people into new cooking career

When Megan moved to Benalla in search of sunshine and a slower pace of life, she never imagined how drastically her world was about to change.

A former secondary school science teacher, Megan had built a career she was proud of - climbing the pay scale, earning her qualifications, and shaping young minds.

But everything shifted when she was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

“I’ve had lots of surgery, and my memory’s not great,” Megan says.

“I just couldn’t keep up with the fast pace of teaching anymore - even remembering the kids’ names was hard.”

Letting go of her teaching career was more than a professional setback - it was an emotional blow.

“It’s a bit heartbreaking,” she says.

“I spent all this time and money - HECS and everything - becoming qualified. And then I worked my way up the teaching payscale, and then I couldn’t teach anymore. I was embarrassed.”

Megan’s story could have ended there, but with the help of APM Employment Services, a new chapter began.

Understanding her need for a low-stress, supportive environment, APM helped her explore new possibilities - ones she hadn’t considered before.

“We were looking for something really low stress,” APM Business Manager, Janelle, explains.

“A supportive environment. A really good employer is important.”

That’s when Megan found her new role - working in a local coffee van, making coffees and cooking for the community.

It was a far cry from the science lab, but it turned out to be the perfect fit.

“Megan was just so bubbly. She took to it straight away,” says Lisa, Megan’s employer at Coffeez to Go.

“I gave her a very short demonstration, and she was right into it - so full of confidence. She’s really grown in the last six months.”

“Customer banter is a big deal here, and Megan settled into that role beautifully. The customers love her. She’s made it a very personalised experience for them.”

For Megan, the job has become more than just work - it’s a way to reconnect with the community and rediscover her sense of self.

The support from APM has been a key part of that journey.

“APM are checking in regularly,” Lisa says.

“We have email support, and they catch up with Megan regularly as well. and she feels very supported by them. The communication has been great - it’s been very smooth sailing.”

Lisa encourages other employers to consider hiring people with disabilities.

“We’ve really found the whole process of hiring someone with a disability so gratifying because you can really see the growth over time, and it’s a great feeling to be able to give someone an opportunity,” she says.

You never know what you’re going to get no matter who you employ.

“To have that recommendation and they match someone up with you, I think they’ve (APM) done a brilliant job.”

And Megan? She’s thriving.

“It’s all worked really well, it was amazing,” she laughs.

“Just go ask Janelle - she’ll go get you a job. It was so easy.”

“It’s the best part of my job – finding that fit to help people change their lives,” Janelle adds.

Choose what defines you

If you have a disability, injury or health condition, we know that doesn’t define you.  

If you’re eligible for inclusive employment support, speak to APM Employment Services for help finding meaningful and fulfilling work, and to get you to where you want to be.

Your support is unique to you, your goals, and the type of work you’re interested in. It may include:

• help to prepare for work
• job-specific training
• access to health or other local support services

You’ll also get support to search and apply for jobs.

When you’re ready to work, we’ll help with interviews and meeting local employers too.

When you start work, we may also help with on-the-job training, access to tools, uniforms or assistance with transport costs.

Chat with us today and choose what defines you – including a job you love.

Call 1800 276 276 or click register now below to get started.