Hidden Disabilities Sunflower


Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

​Wodonga TAFE has adopted the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to help support and raise awareness of those living with a hidden disability that may not be so obvious to the casual observer. In Australia and New Zealand 1 in 5 people are said to have a disability, 80% of these are hidden.

What is a hidden disability?

Hidden disabilities can sometimes be difficult for others to recognise, some examples of disabilities that may not be immediately obvious include autism, anxiety, chronic pain, dementia or learning difficulties.

Students studying at Wodonga TAFE can choose to wear the Sunflower in the form of a lanyard or wristband to discreetly indicate to teachers and staff that they need additional support, help, understanding or even a little more time.

As part of the Wodonga TAFE's involvement with the Hidden Disability Sunflower initiative, all staff are undertaking training to learn how to recognise the Sunflower, gain a deeper understanding of what non-visible disabilities are, and learn how to approach and support colleagues and students that are living with a hidden disability.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower


Meet Isaac, one of our Hairdressing students!

Thursday, 31 October 2024

Meet Isaac Pronk, a talented young hairdresser currently completing his Certificate III in Hairdressing at Wodonga TAFE. With a passion for creativity and a knack for transforming looks, Isaac is making his mark in the industry.

Isaac struggled to know what career path to pursue post year 12. It was during a campus tour of Wodonga TAFE that he discovered his passion for hairdressing. Impressed by the hands-on learning environment, Isaac decided to pursue this creative path. Isacc first completed a Certificate II in Hairdressing with Wodonga TAFE, it was his positive learning experience that lead him to continue his studies and pursue a paid apprenticeship opportunity with local salon - Bohème Hair Artistry, and Isaac is now in his third year of the Certificate III in Hairdressing.

As part of his apprenticeship, Isaac attends Wodonga TAFE one day a week. It is here he engages in both theory and practical work. The hands-on TAFE experience includes styling mannequins and providing services to clients in the on-site salon. Isaac particularly enjoys men’s haircuts and creative colouring, relishing the chance to express his artistic flair.

For Isaac, the most rewarding aspect of hairdressing is the positive impact he can have on his clients. He finds immense satisfaction in providing a great cut or colour, watching as clients leave feeling revitalised and confident. This ability to transform not just appearances but also moods keep him motivated in his work.

Recently, Isaac achieved an impressive milestone by placing first in the WorldSkills regional competition. This opportunity allowed him to showcase his skills across three different tasks: two with clients and one with a mannequin. He executed a challenging men’s cut using only scissors and a creative cut and colour using two different techniques. Isaac encourages others to seize opportunities like this, emphasising the importance of growth in one’s craft.

Outside of his studies and work, Isaac values his downtime. He enjoys relaxing by watching shows, spending time with his partner and friends, and indulging in board games and video games.This balance helps him recharge in an industry that thrives on personal interaction.

Looking ahead, Isaac is determined to continue his journey in the hairdressing industry. His goal is to keep refining his skills and pushing the boundaries of his creativity. With the industry constantly evolving, he embraces the idea of lifelong learning and aims to become the best hairdresser he can be. Isaac Pronk’s story is one of passion, dedication, and creativity, and as he continues to grow in the hairdressing world, there’s no doubt he will leave a lasting impression on both his clients and the industry as a whole.

 

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