Hi, my name is Pauline David. I am a 42-year-old with an Assyrian background who has the lived experience of being a person with disability, living independently and being a proactive member of my community for more than 11 years.

I have previously lived in the family home and even though I appreciate having an extremely supportive family I was wrapped in cotton wool. Living independently has given me the opportunity to find myself, given me MY OWN identity, and growth. I am no longer silkworm wrapped in a cocoon, I became a butterfly. It was just that ONE decision to move out of home that has altered the course of my own life. This in turn has given me a passion in helping others overcome their own obstacles and enriching their own life.

In recent times,I have been involved in the implementation of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan in my Local Government Area of Fairfield, ensuring that those of us with disability were not ‘forgotten’, lobbying for footpaths and kerb upgrades/installations to which   I have been successful.I have also been involved in the NSW metro train and tram focus groups.

Besides being someone that is extremely passionate about improving accessibility within the community, I am also someone that generally loves life, and has a good balance of “work and play”. I am a passionate NRL supporter (currently holding a position on the members committee). I enjoy going to concerts, eating out,attending festivals/exhibitions, movies, short getaways, and my latest addiction cruising; I get out there. I would love the opportunity to empower you to do the same.

As a mentor, I offer you:

• A supported environment to ‘be you’ with NO judgement
• Help you over come barriers you have that has stopped you living your life to its fullest potential
• Encouragement and support you to be and do your best to achieve your goals
• Self-advocacy skills
• Increase your ability to think outside the box
• Help you overcome your fears in accessing the community, whether it’s related to transport or a general fear of getting out there.

If you are someone that wants to be more,do more with your  life,and believe we would work together in a mentor/mentee relationship offering empathy, understanding, encouragement, support and guidance, please get in touch.

Looking forward to working together.