24th
May
Event
Supporting People with Disabilities to Find Purpose, Pride, and Belonging
In the heart of Fremantle, a story of inclusion and empowerment quietly unfolded—one that continues to inspire everyone who walks through the doors of Moore & Moore Café.
When Tonia and Karen, her support worker, were actively searching for employment opportunities, our main goal was to support Tonia in building her network. We believed that for her to find meaningful work, she needed to meet new people, visit new places, and make connections that would allow her to grow personally and professionally. That’s exactly how she found her opportunity—by introducing herself and simply asking for a chance.
It all started with a conversation. Tonia met Simon Naber, the owner of Moore & Moore, and told him she was looking for work. Simon asked, “What would you like to do?” Tonia replied, “I know how to clean.” His response wasn’t just kind—it was forward-thinking. Simon turned to me and said, “Let’s schedule a meeting to talk.”
When we sat down with Simon and Maria, the café’s manager, we made a joint decision that Tonia wouldn’t be limited to a cleaning role. Instead, she would be supported to learn a range of new skills, grow her confidence, and broaden her horizons. This was about showing Tonia that her abilities could expand far beyond what she had previously imagined.
Since then, Tonia has flourished in her role. She now takes on multiple responsibilities: setting tables, checking for hazards, arranging cutlery, clearing plates, and assisting customers with genuine care and warmth. She has become an integral part of the Moore & Moore team, contributing not just with her hands, but with her heart.
For Karen this one moment stands out. Early in her role, Tonia noticed an elderly woman sitting alone and looking confused. Without hesitation, she approached and started a gentle conversation. When Karen checked in to see if she needed help, Tonia simply said, “I’m doing something very important.” . Moments later, Karen described her walking hand in hand with an elderly man—reuniting him with the woman, who turned out to be his partner. Tonia stayed with them, guided them to their table, and explained how to order.
It was a small act—but it spoke volumes. It showed Tonia’s empathy, initiative, and her ability to take charge in a caring way.
Over time, both customers and staff alike have noticed her dedication. Many have approached Maria to say that Tonia is one of the best team members they’ve encountered. She truly takes time to help others.
As a support worker, Karen’s role is not just to supervise Tonia—it’s to work with her. We’re all a team at 4lifeskills. We learn together, adapt together, and support each other. We just share a purpose. We believe this is how we create workplaces where everyone feels equal and valued.
Tonia’s story is not just a celebration of her achievements, but an invitation to others: to believe in possibility, to invest in people, and to rethink what true inclusion looks like. We want to thank Simon, Maria, and the entire Moore & Moore family and Karen for their patience, encouragement, and unwavering belief in what people can do when given the chance.
