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The art of dedication: Saki Yamaoka’s impactful career at Multicap

For the past 19 years, Saki has been a dedicated supported employee at Multicap, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the organisation, its services, and the remarkable people who make it special.

Saki’s journey with Multicap began thanks to a connection through her mother’s friend. She started at the Monte Lupo Café, where she spent 15 years excelling in various roles.

Initially working as an artist and in the retail gallery, Saki also received barista training, learning the art of making exquisite coffees. Later, she transitioned into an administration role, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the organisation.

After her enriching tenure at the café, Saki transferred to the Makeables Warehouse in Rocklea. Here, she joined a team of supported employees engaged in assembly, packing, and finishing tasks.

The Makeables Warehouse is dedicated to increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities, allowing them to gain valuable experience in production and distribution.

In her current role as a Packaging Assistant in the Call Centre, Saki has thrived, acquiring new skills and embracing new opportunities. She describes her experience at the Makeables Warehouse as transformative.

“I love the diversity of this place; no two days are ever the same,” says Saki.

Beyond her professional roles, Saki is a passionate artist who loves painting on canvases and engaging in photography. She describes her artwork as imaginative and meditative, providing her with a much-needed creative outlet.

Saki lives with her mother, sister, niece, brother-in-law, and their pets, fostering a tight-knit and supportive community. She also draws strength from her colleagues at the warehouse, particularly appreciating their kindness during the difficult period following her grandmother’s passing.

The loss of her grandmother significantly impacted Saki’s mental health, fuelling her passion for raising awareness and destigmatising mental health issues.

“It can be so scary to be struggling with a mental health issue and you feel so isolated and alone. You need to have the right people around you to support and care for you,” Saki shares.

Demonstrating her commitment to inclusivity, Saki has been teaching herself Auslan to better communicate with two of her deaf colleagues. This endeavour has brought her closer to her colleagues, highlighting her dedication to supporting her team.

Saki receives support herself from two Multicap support workers, Susan and Phil, with whom she shares a wonderful relationship. They have supported her through a spinal and neck surgery, which has drastically improved mobility and allows her to stand for longer periods, enabling her to stay active and engaged.

Saki’s journey at Multicap underscores her value as an exceptional team member at Makeables and within the broader Multicap community. Her story is one of resilience, dedication, and a passion for inclusivity and mental health advocacy, making her an inspiration to all who know her.

For more information on Supported Employment opportunities, visit our website.


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