How I became self employed

A woman with Down syndrome in a white collared shirt is smiling at the camera.

By Kylie Scott

Kylie has done everything from voluntary work to paid work at a pizza shop and a supermarket, to working in an administration role with a federal government department. But over the years Kylie found the best fit for her skills and interests was to become a public speaker, self-advocate and artist.

Kylie set about up skilling herself with NIDA courses and speech pathology assistance, which led to her getting an ABN to register her business: Kylie Downs Barriers. She shares her journey to becoming a successful business owner.

In a previous life I used to do computer work like data bases, spreadsheets, Power Point presentations and mail-outs. I also used to make folders, booklets, then I’d do the filing as well. Now I do public speaking and art.

Very recently in addition to my involvements with a wide range of committees (disability and otherwise) –some paid, some voluntary – I have been paid for some promotional video work.

I started my own business in 2015. Mum helped me. The song that lifted me up was ‘Simply the Best’ to build my confidence. I did it with lots and lots of help from other people.

I get paid for my public speaking. People enjoy my talks.

I don’t get paid much through my artwork, but I love doing it. When I do my artwork, Mum and I enjoy making these into cards through Vista Print.

Some things are challenging for me – like talking about NIPT to medical people in the audience when I give my talks. I have had to learn to be an advocate and a leader! And I am still learning.

I have a business bank account. Mum sends invoices, and my payments go into my business account. If I have business expenses, I buy things with my business debit card. Then it is easier at tax time for my accountant to do my business tax and my Centrelink profit and loss statement.

I paid to have my website improved earlier this year, and it is regularly updated. Most of my speaking opportunities have come through word of mouth. Mum does lots of background work for me. But my business is fun for us both!

You have to work hard to build your own voice and to know how to get help.