Student Deegan has shared his experience in the Get Up and Goal program, a collaborative effort between the Purple Hands Foundation and uLaunch, an AKG company, emphasising the practical aspects that are making him and other young people with disabilities more prepared for employment.
Deegan’s reflections focus on how the program addresses real challenges, such as interview preparation and access to professional clothing, making the path to work more accessible and manageable.
Deegan highlighted how the guidance of the program helped him identify areas of interest for him to seek employment in.
“It’s helpful in the way you find jobs in the area I would like to work in,” Deegan said.
“This program is super helpful for whoever may want to find a job while they are in school or after school.
“I gained the knowledge to be able to know what the interviewees would ask, what questions to ask and know how to seek a job.”
The Get Up and Goal program provides students in years 10 to 12 with eight targeted sessions that cover career exploration, resume writing, interview skills, professional dress, and stress management. The approach is straightforward, focusing on skills that directly assist students in finding and securing meaningful work.
Deegan reflected on how some of the practical elements of the program have empowered him.
“My favourite moment was when we received clothing for interviews, Deegan said.
“Those are hard to come by and are very expensive when you do actually find them.
“The Get Up and Goal program helps students actually be able to dress for an interview.”
At completion of Get Up and Goal, Deegan has commenced work experience in a kitchen, proving that skills taught are practical and having real-life impact.
Multiple students that have completed Get Up and Goal are completing formal certifications or have commenced work placement opportunities, all inspired by their participation in the program.
A teacher from a participating Get Up and Goal school, Zac, explained the positive influence the program had on his now work-ready students.
“Get Up and Goal lets them aspire to dream but also offers practical skills like being able to handle a job interview, and with your help, you had them looking sharp as well," Zac said.
"Most of the kids are now doing their own separate work experience and are doing really well.”
Purple Hands Foundation General Manager Donna Rendell says she understands just how powerful meaningful work is.
“Everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed, and with Get Up and Goal, we’re helping break down barriers for young people to have a fair go,” Rendell said.
Get Up and Goal wouldn’t exist without the power of an incredible partnership with uLaunch. AKG Managing Director Darren Hooper reflected on how the program is making a difference in the lives of many.
“Our partnership with Get Up and Goal shows what’s possible when we come together with a shared purpose,” Hooper said.
“By combining AKG’s expertise in employment services with Get Up and Goal’s practical approach, we’re helping young people take those first steps into work with confidence.
“Watching students like Deegan grow through this program, with the right support behind him, shows what’s possible when we collaborate to give young people every chance to succeed.”
By blending practical learning with real-world application, Get Up and Goal gives its participants tangible tools for entering the workforce and building career readiness for meaningful employment opportunities.
