Arne Holst, a 52-year-old indigenous man who lives with disability, had always wanted to become a chef. Nearly two years ago he approached BUSY Ability to help him realise his dream and he was soon lined up with some work experience at the Pullman Hotel in Brisbane. Impressing his supervisors, this quickly became an opportunity to undertake a chef’s apprenticeship with the hotel.
Now into his second year of the apprenticeship, Arne is excelling in his work and his study – and his employers couldn’t be happier!
Cameron Gardiner, Executive Chef at the Pullman said “Arne’s been a great addition here at the Pullman. He’s a very positive guy and he’s fun to have in the team. I think he’s a great addition to the team”.
General Manager Michael Daviss agrees “We noticed straight away when Arne came in with his personality, his passion and his drive, he hit the ground running. Arne is an absolute pleasure to have here, it couldn’t have gone any better and he’s very quickly become a key part of our business”.
A shining example of believing in your dreams, Arne sums it up nicely when he said “My ambition is to become a Sous Chef and travel around. I just want to be the best chef I can. You gotta make the best of what you’ve got. I love what I do. If you love something, do it, regardless.
“Everybody can do it if you just put your mind to it. Regardless of what culture you are or if you have a disability or not. If you have a heart and passion, it’s a ticket to go somewhere in life”, Arne stated.
Regional Manager for BUSY Ability, Sarah Hanson stated, “Arne has gone leaps and bounds throughout his second year completing TAFE and extending his professional development at The Pullman Hotel to become an integral part of the team.”
BUSY Ability offer clients with disability support into work through the Disability Employment Services program, as well as NDIS participant support.
If you live with disability and, like Arne, would like help to find your dream career, visit www.busyability.org.au
Watch more about Arne’s story below.
The BUSY Group acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to the land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and their Elders past and present.
