Someone who loves classic rock music, enjoys soy cappuccinos and is way cooler than her children give her credit for is – Tonche.
Being nominated for her professionalism and her ability to know when to step in and when to step back, we want to take a moment and tell the story of our AWESOME Support Worker Tonche Gibbings.
Starting her career very different to what it looks like now, Tonche changed from selling real estate to studying counselling and community services, a few years ago.
On the hunt for a more meaningful career, she worked in different areas such as homelessness, violence and drug and alcohol services. The transition to the disability sector felt natural and rewarding at the same time – she is glad she gave it a go and so are we!
Tonche has now been with Interchange for 3 years, enjoying her work and feeling supported as well as driven to grow in her own abilities. Feeling the sense of empowerment all around. There is always someone she can call for assistance and she continues to learn daily. Tonche finds our internal training platform extremely helpful to increase her knowledge for the position and the sector.
“The work in the disability sector gives me the pleasure of meeting super amazing people and getting to know them and building strong relationships. And even though each day is different, it’s always rewarding to feel like you are making a positive difference, supporting others to achieve their goals and live a good life.
Tonche also feels like she learns a lot about herself and grows as a person in many ways. She enjoys the variety and the work life balance the job gives her.
What is your life motto we want to know and Tonche mentions a quote by Maya Angelou ‘I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you make them feel.’ She believes this to be very true and stresses how important it is to share positive energy with the others around you to empower them.
Her message to people regarding people with disability is, to have an open mind, have empathy and to be kind.
“You should be kind with everyone anyway, the world would be a much better place!
Her true life treasure and most important is her family and the quality time they get to spend together but also not to forget about self-care as you can’t pour from an empty cup, she says.
Since her children keep her busy, she spends plenty of time kicking the footy at the park as well as hours upon hours at the skatepark administering first aid where necessary and being the embarrassing mum that watches from the sidelines. Tonche also loves gardening and taking her dog Lucy out on coffee dates.
Thank you, Tonche – We Think You Are Awesome!
Our awesome staff bring passion and commitment to their vital roles. We think they are amazing – but the best feedback is always the one coming directly from you.
Would you like to acknowledge your Interchange support staff for the great work they do? It’s easy – just nominate them for our iThink You Are Awesome Award at hello@interchangewa.org.au