From isolation to becoming a “disability champion”, connecting with the community through support from the NDIS has seen Sengo shine.
Sengo, who arrived in Australia as a refugee from Congo in 2019, has become a Community Connector, where he actively educates others in his community about disability and the assistance available through NDIS.
Also running the successful Mussa’s Mobile Barber, Sengo said he’d achieved his dream Down Under.
‘When I arrived in Australia, my main goal was to do something people can respect me for,’ he said.
‘And now I’ve achieved that!’
Initially, Sengo really struggled with his daily living needs, and felt alone with no social connections whatsoever.
Due to the physical limitations resulting from his disability, public transport was too difficult for Sengo, preventing him from accessing the community and further fuelling his isolation.
This was compounded by rain, hot and cold weather, language barriers, and a lack of mobility aids.
However, 6 months after his arrival, Sengo accessed NDIS supports through Relationships Australia.
Sengo secured transport assistance, enabling him to start discovering his local area and meeting people within the community. He receives assistance with daily living activities, therapeutic services, and access to assistive technologies.
These supports have greatly improved Sengo’s quality of life, enabling him to actively participate in his community and establish strong connections.
With his friendly, outgoing nature, Sengo was making friends and learning about Australia. After around 12 months, he felt settled, a sense of belonging, and truly connected to his local community in Adelaide.
Sengo currently has an NDIS plan, receiving a wide range of support including assistance with daily living activities, therapeutic services, and access to assistive technologies.
Sengo’s Feros Care Local Area Coordinators assist him in making informed decisions to ensure the support he receives is tailored to his needs and goals.
Sengo has gained a deeper understanding of the NDIS and has learned where to seek help when needed.
Becoming a Community Connector, where he actively educates others in his community about disability and the assistance available through NDIS, Sengo said he feels empowered through the support he’s received.
‘I feel valued,’ Sengo said.
‘My association with Feros Care has not only made me feel respected within my community as a person with a disability, but also empowered me to become the ‘Disability Champion’ within my community.’
As a leader, he regularly invites his community members to attend information sessions, where he answers questions and guides those who require assistance in this area.
He actively participates in events, raising awareness and advocating for the disability community.
Through Mussa’s Mobile Barber, Sengo delivers barber services to adults and children, particularly those with a disability who may not feel comfortable going to a regular barber.
Due to his own disability, he is uniquely placed to understand the challenges of these clients.
Thanks to the invaluable NDIS supports he receives, Sengo has become more independent.
The support has empowered him to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams and helped him to earn the trust of parents with children who have disabilities.
