Victoria Marshall has become the new face of the Surf Coast Shire’s reThink disAbility campaign after “thriving” in her placement at Jan Juc preschool.
The 19-year-old always wanted work with children and has loved teaching her pre-schoolers to paint and read.
“It makes me smile,” she said. “I love my life.”
Ms Marshall, who has Down Syndrome, started the placement in term two with a mentor from Volunteering Geelong.
She familiarised herself with the role and grew in confidence, earning a one-day placement by herself each week.
Jan Juc Kindergarten teacher Sue Gout said Ms Marshall had taught the children and staff a valuable lesson in inclusivity.
“It is so lovely to see the children approach Tori to ask for help, to show her something they have made or to ask about something she has made,” she said.
“I think this placement shows that inclusion is possible in any workplace. With the right organisation, support and mindset, it shows that great outcomes can happen.”
Torquay Ward Councillor Rose Hodge said Victoria’s experience demonstrated that “people of all abilities can achieve their goals”.
“For Victoria to blossom in this role… is wonderful.”
