After being laid off from his previous job as a data analyst, Narada joined our Creative Employment Options program with the hope of finding “meaningful and stable employment” while pursuing other freelance opportunities. He is deaf, speaks with a distinct deaf accent, and has ADHD.
“Due to my disability, I face communication challenges and barriers to finding jobs,” he shares. “As someone with ADHD, these barriers and challenges can make some things overwhelming, as they take a more significant amount of work and navigation.”
In addition to seeking work that fit his needs, Narada joined our program looking to improve his job-hunting and networking skills. He began working closely with his Case Manager, Anmol.
“Anmol was very dedicated to helping me improve my resume, cover letters, and other job-hunting strategies. She also went above and beyond many times to provide additional support, such as interpreting, reaching out to employers, and conducting outreach to businesses in my community,” he says.
He also highly appreciated the various courses he took part in, which gave him a competitive edge in the job search process.
Narada’s hard work paid off when he secured a position as an Indoor Air Quality Technician with an air duct cleaning company.
“I improve indoor air quality in residential and commercial spaces by cleaning air vent ducts and HVAC systems, as well as cleaning dryer vents to eliminate clogs,” he explains. “By utilizing my organizational and time management skills to provide exceptional customer service and meet high-standard quality cleaning services, I have earned several 5-star reviews and positive customer feedback.”
With the help of the job search skills he learned in our Creative Employment Options program, he has also successfully found casual side jobs as a merchandiser and delivery agent.
Narada says he recommends the Creative Employment Options program to people with disabilities who need help finding employment.
“The Neil Squire Creative Employment Options program helped me gain more confidence in my job-hunting efforts. Ultimately, it helped to boost my self-esteem and independence.”
