Kayla finds her dream job with inclusive employment

Kayla always knew she wanted to work with animals, but living in the small town of Lowood, with limited transport and few local job opportunities, made that dream feel out of reach.

Living with an intellectual disability, she wasn’t sure what kind of work would suit her, or how to get started.

That changed when she connected with APM Employment Services through their outreach office.

Employment Consultant Twahnee, met with Kayla and her support worker and committed herself to helping the young job seeker in finding a role that matched her strengths and passions.

During their first meeting, Kayla mentioned she had previous experience working at a stable and even held a stable hand licence.

That detail sparked a memory for Twahnee, another member of the APM team had a contact at H4C Stables in Ipswich. She reached out, and soon Kayla had an interview lined up.

With her licence and experience, Kayla was offered a position at H4C Stables in Booval.

APM helped her prepare by providing appropriate work clothing and coordinating with her support team to ensure employment was included in her NDIS plan.

Transport was a challenge, but thanks to collaboration between her support workers and the H4C team, a reliable plan was put in place.

The job turned out to be a perfect fit.

Kayla quickly bonded with the horses, especially one named Wrapped in Pink - or “Pink” for short. Her confidence soared.

Mick, one of the owners, praised Kayla’s successful start at the stable.

“She’s absolutely fantastic with them. She’s the only one we’ve got that we can confidently let her enter by herself and handle them on her own.”

Now, Kayla looks forward to every shift.

She’s more outgoing, self-assured, and thriving in a role that brings her joy.

“Kayla has just hit her 13 weeks in employment milestone and continues to smash her goals with H4C,” Twahnee said.

“To see the change in her self-confidence from our initial meeting to now seeing the big smile on Kayla’s face while she’s working and doing what she loves is just heartwarming.”

Mick added, “She’s just so good. Kayla’s got the experience and such a great rapport with the horses. She’s an absolute pleasure to have here.”

With her future looking bright, Kayla is focused on continuing her work with the horses she loves.

Know someone who could use a helping hand to find meaningful work?

Share Kayla’s story and learn more about how APM Employment Services can help.

Inclusive Employment Australia

Kayla was supported by APM through Disability Employment Services.

From 1 November 2025, the program will change to Inclusive Employment Australia.

APM Employment Services has been selected as a national provider of Inclusive Employment Australia and will continue helping people with disability, injury or health conditions, to prepare for and find a meaningful job.

Until then, if you’re eligible for Disability Employment Services (DES), speak to APM Employment Services for help finding meaningful and fulfilling employment, and to get you to where you want to be.

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.