When we presented about the Ticket to Work program at Simu’s high school, it was a turning point in the young man’s life.

We introduced Simu with Woolworths in Sunnybank Hills, and he began his traineeship in March.

His initial duties included merchandising, cleaning tasks and looking after the milk fridges. Recently, Simu was promoted to work in the produce department and is enjoying the hands-on nature of stocking fruit and vegetables.

Simu says the traineeship has really boosted his confidence and ability to talk to customers and employees, which he previously found challenging due to a speech impairment.

“I had a support worker when I first started but I achieved independence quickly,” Simu said.

“My EPIC consultant has really looked after me.”

EPIC Employment Consultant Phillip LeBoeuf is impressed with how far Simu has come in a short period of time.

“Reflecting back on him now, it is difficult to picture Simu as the quiet and uncertain youth back when he started,” Phillip said.

“He had a support worker alongside him to assist in the customer service and communication challenges involved with grocery retail, and wow, that one-on-one support really fired up his confidence.

“Nowadays Simu is working unsupervised in the produce department and I really cannot speak higher of his work ethic, he is a champion,” he said.

Looking forward, Simu would like to continue his work in grocery retail.

“I enjoy my time at Woolworths and cannot thank EPIC enough for this opportunity.”