When a young person with disability leaves school, there is a risk that their life will stagnate. But when they are supported to follow their passions with intention and thoughtful planning, it’s possible to craft a week filled with purpose.
Take Milly Whitehead, for example. Milly is a recent school leaver here in the ACT. She runs her own microenterprise and has recently joined our team as an administrative assistant. Milly spoke at our conference last year. She enjoys a rich social life and has many other roles – including dancer, puzzle enthusiast, seamstress, and employee – which ensure her weeks are productive and never dull.
Even before she left school, Milly had started thinking about what she might do for work. Several years ago, with the help of her Mum, she established her microbusiness – Made by Miss Milly – based on one of her passions: making handcrafted gifts.
Milly started out selling scrunchies and felt ball ornaments. Her offerings have since expanded to include adorable dog bandannas, felted stars, and felt ball garlands and wreaths. She has sold her products online, at various local markets, suitcase rummages, and, more recently, through Trove in Dickson (look for her products on one of the lower shelves behind the reception desk).
As you can see from the photos, Milly’s handcrafts are gorgeous and make beautiful gifts. You can visit Milly’s Instagram page – @madebymissmilly – for up-to-date information on her products and upcoming markets.
Milly’s post-school life is a wonderful example of how rich and exciting life can be, and she’s only at the beginning of her journey! Her story is also a great example of what can be achieved when a family applies the principles of Social Role Valorisation and the Customised Employment framework.