Local wins Minister’s Award

Southbank resident Emelia Young recently won the Minister’s Award for Outstanding Leadership at the 2018 Victorian Disability Awards.

Emelia, who works as a Yooralla occupational therapist, was recognised for her work and relentless commitment to supporting new parents with disability.

Her work with Yooralla and the Royal Women’s Hospital’s Parenting with Disability program aimed to support the independence and confidence of new parents who have physical, intellectual and mental health disabilities.

Emelia shared that being able to support new families before and after the birth of their babies through the one-of-a-kind program in Victoria was a privilege for her and for Yooralla.

Yooralla is one of Victoria’s oldest and largest disability services providers creating equal opportunities for people with disabilities.

“We are striving for equality in our society and that requires giving people access to the right type of supports to enable independence and participation in everyday life,” said Emelia. “This includes providing information, support and equipment to parents with a disability. When these are implemented, parents thrive caring for their child and feel empowered.”

Emelia works every day to assess and implement strategies and equipment for people with disability, to increase their participation and engagement in meaningful everyday activities.

“When parents feel supported, their stress and anxiety around parenting is reduced, and they therefore have a more positive experience in the early stages at home with their baby,” said Emelia. “This is why I am passionate about continuing this program.”

Other than the Minister’s Award, Emelia was also nominated and received a commendation award for the Excellence in Promoting Health, Housing and Wellbeing category for her contribution to the program.