Makshita first joined Afea as a carer in September 2020. Inspired by a family member who was born with Down Syndrome, Makshita wanted to gain firsthand experience to better support people living with disability. Now with a master’s degree in Social Work, she continues to gain knowledge and connections with clients as a Care Coordinator at Afea.
Keep reading to learn more about Makshita!
When did you first join Afea as a carer?
I joined Afea on the 3rd of September 2020.
What led you to becoming a carer?
I was always very caring and compassionate. My interest in becoming a carer grew when a very special boy in my maternal family was born. He was diagnosed with Down Syndrome and I always wondered how I can help him enhance his life and communicate with him. That made me want to learn and become more involved in this industry, to gain that firsthand experience.
I was also doing my master’s degree in Social Work at this time. My studies made me realise the importance of firsthand experience and knowledge required to assist people with disability.
Why did you decide to become a Care Coordinator?
I was always up for upskilling my knowledge and bringing my knowledge into practice. Completing my degree in Social Work enabled me to gain a lot of theoretical knowledge. I wanted to put that into practice by working in the same industry. Applying my knowledge in real-life situations with clients was what I was looking for. I felt that the Care Coordinator role is the perfect opportunity to continue my career in disability care.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned when you transitioned roles?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned I would say would be the realisation of the importance of empathy, understanding, authenticity and flexibility in this industry, and the importance of building that connection and bond with the clients as well as the carers.
What is your proudest moment at Afea as a Carer? As a Care Coordinator?
My proudest moments when I was a carer would be when I used to turn up for services, the clients would have the biggest and brightest welcoming smile to greet me. And this happens every day!
As a Care Coordinator, the proudest moment for me was when the client I used to look after as a carer was handed over to me due to my deep understanding of their needs, and my care and empathy towards them.
Interested in joining our team as a carer or Care Coordinator? Check out our current opportunities!
