DSV’s Matt O’Neil recently reached a milestone that means a lot to him. September marked ten years since Matt started working at Coles, and his colleagues helped him celebrate!
Matt’s Coles store hosted an anniversary party for him with fellow staff, the store manager and even the regional manager. Matt also invited DSV’s Employment Connections Manager Bree Mills and his vocational trainer from Jobsupport, Laura Donati.
Laura shared that, “I’ve been supporting Matt at Coles for many years now. Matt is an integral team member. He works hard, acts professionally, strives to do his best and has a work ethic managers wish they could replicate.”
There was a big spread of food and speeches by the Coles managers and some staff. They presented Matt with a special golden 10-year name badge and gifts including flowers, chocolates and a book full of handwritten congratulations messages. Matt then made a wonderful thank you speech.
At DSV, we thought it would be great to hear what the anniversary means to Matt.
An interview with Matt
DSV: What does it mean to you to reach that milestone?
Matt: It means everything to me. I’m so happy and so proud. I never thought I would reach ten years. This job means a lot to me, and I have felt a bit emotional about the appreciation and celebration that the people I work with at Coles have shown to me. The big boss was at my anniversary lunch. It makes me feel valued.
DSV: Do you have a favourite moment from working there?
Matt: My favourite moment was I first started in 2015 because it was the start of my journey at Coles and having my first paid job.
DSV: What are some things that you have learnt from this job?
Matt: I’m open to learning every day when I go in to work. I have a passion to work and to be the best at whatever job I’m doing. I like to talk to people and working at Coles means that I get to meet lots of different people.
DSV: How do you think working in this role has contributed to who you are now, ten years later?
Matt: I think I’m a different person now. My attitude has changed. In the early days, sometimes I was a bit fiery and cheeky, but that old me is gone. I’m more confident now.
DSV: Is there anything else you would like to share with readers about your anniversary or your job?
Matt: I want to be a trailblazer for other people with Down syndrome who would like to work too. I would encourage anyone with Down syndrome who would like to work to try and find a job like I have.
Matt and Laura Donati
DSV’s Bree said, “It was very clear that Matt (or Matty as they call him) has developed wonderful relationships with everyone at his Coles.” And the rest of us at DSV aren’t surprised to hear that because we know that Matt is a pleasure to work with. Congratulations Matt on this impressive achievement!
Employment information
If you have Down syndrome would like to read about how to look for work and get ready to work, Down Syndrome Australia have information at their Right to Work webpage.
If you are an employer and you would like to find out about the support that DSV can offer you in recruiting and working with a person with Down syndrome, take a look at our Employment Connections page. You can also email our Employment Connections Manager Bree at breem@dsav.asn.au