Musician Kayla Sirrell sings Salvation Army’s praises at new Rowville employment service for people with disabilities

MUSICIAN Kayla Sirrell says she is no longer afraid to speak out on important issues and pursue career opportunities — and she wants others with disabilities to chase their dreams.

MUSICIAN Kayla Sirrell says she is no longer afraid to speak out on important issues and pursue career opportunities — and she wants others with disabilities to chase their dreams.

Sirrell, 21, has a rare form of Tourette syndrome that involves her having uncontrollable movements and tics.

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She featured on the ABC TV show Employable Me in April and was the guest musical performer in Rowville last week for the launch of the Salvation Army’s Employment Plus Disability Employment Services.

Kayla Sirrell performing at a disability information session in Rowville. Picture: Hamish Blair

Sirrell is an ambassador for the Salvos efforts to get more disabled people into work.

She said she has faced barriers to employment and wanted to share her experience in a bid to inspire others.

“I get judged all the times. It sucks,” she said.

“There are a lot of people with disabilities who are getting judged and struggling with getting jobs.

“Hopefully it does change in the future where people are aware that people with disabilities want to work and can offer a lot and can succeed in life.”

The Perth-based singer and guitarist said there were many benefits to finding a job, including building confidence and helping with your sense of identity.

Sirrell is hoping to inspire others with her music. Picture: Hamish Blair

“Everyone wants to feel normal, they want to be known for having a job and being normal, rather than being known as someone with a disability.”

Changes to the Disability Employment Services program brought in on July 1 mean jobseekers now have more say in the services they get and how they can access them.

As a result, the Salvation Army has updated five of its Employment Plus offices in Melbourne, including Rowville, to cater for people with disabilities.

The Rowville branch on Fulham Rd is the hub for people from Knox, Maroondah and the Yarra Ranges.

Sirrell will spend a month travelling across Australia with the Salvation Army, playing at Launceston, Sydney, Brisbane and Canberra.

She said the main message for anyone looking for work was to go for it.

“Strive for what you want to do, don’t hold back on anything if you keep going and keep striving then you’ll get there.”

To follow her music go to her Facebook page.

For information on the Salvation Army Employment Plus Disability Employment Services go to employmentplus.com.au/des