First Employment Boosts Man’s Theatre Career Ambition

Jomi Denedo, a 28-year-old from Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, who lives with cerebral palsy, has stated that securing his first job has empowered him to pursue his aspiration of working in theatre. The charity Sense, through its employment service, assisted Mr. Denedo in obtaining a position as a kitchen porter. He explained that prior to this, he had undertaken voluntary and unpaid roles, but after receiving guidance on CV writing and interview techniques, he commenced his initial paid employment in July. Mr. Denedo expressed feeling “positive” regarding his future, indicating his intention to continue utilizing his acquired kitchen skills “to cook for the people I care for.” He shared, “Because of my disability I’m very independent, so I tend not to ask for help if I need it or when I need it.” He further added, “I’m feeling positive, I’m now going to work towards my personal goal as I have always liked the theatre from a young age. “I now want a career in theatre but I will use my food skills in life, to cook for the people I care for.” Despite his decision to depart from his current employer, Mr. Denedo, who also manages a mood disorder, noted that he consistently produced food of “restaurant standard each day.” He identified learning when to seek assistance as one of the most significant skills he has gained. He intends to further his education by learning a computer program for 2D and 3D design, with the goal of working in the scenic design sector of the arts. He remarked, “I’m much more confident within myself. “I feel OK to stand up for myself and not feel guilty about it, I can’t do everything, but I’ve learnt how to be more productive.” He also observed, “I’m noticing that I’m a lot more quicker at getting things done and understanding things a lot better than I thought I did.” Maxine Hunter, Mr. Denedo’s employment coach, commented on their collaboration, stating, “We’ve been working together for eight months and I can see in that time how hard he’s fought to overcome the barriers placed on him by other people’s expectations.” She described him as “very self-driven” and noted a substantial improvement in his confidence during their time working together, concluding, “I’m so pleased it’s paid off.”