Jaden
Meet Jaden!
Seventeen-year-old Jaden has faced big changes since finishing school late last year. Living in Kapunda with his grandparents, Peter and Shirley, the past few months have been a journey that Jaden has undertaken with good spirits.
Leaving School and Thriving
Finishing high school in November 2024, Jaden and his family were excited at the opportunity for him to begin exploring new activities and ways to keep his days full and meaningful. Realising that any change or life transition can be a time of stress and uncertainty, they began the shift from school in August, participating one day a week in an NDIS funded activity with local provider, Barossa Enterprises. This paved the path for Jaden to move full time to his new activities once school ended shortly after his graduation on October 25th 2024.
The move wasn’t without difficulties for Jaden and his family, who have said things were “a bit rough” as Jaden was doing so much so quickly. Hindsight being what it is, they’ve said that taking the transition a little slower might have eased the way for Jaden, but also that he’s met the challenge admirably and coped well with all the changes. Peter and Shirley have affirmed Jaden’s growth, saying, “Stay grateful for the progress that has been made.”
In addition to his new programs, Jaden is involved with the "Duke of Ed" (The Duke of Edinburgh International Award), also through Barossa Enterprises. The Duke of Ed framework supports young people to achieve a range of meaningful outcomes. (Learn more about it here.)
Living and Loving Life
Having a couple of weeks off over the summer holidays, Jaden embraced his free time by combining a mix of “chill” time at home with day outings supported by his team from My Ability Pathway, getting to explore Glenelg beach and the Port Adelaide Museum, along with trips on the train and days at the movies. Jaden also enjoys attending youth group and church, fulfilling pursuits that complement his supported activities.
For Jaden, success through this transition has come in many ways. With an increased confidence and knowledge of what he wants, Jaden is having more independent experiences and showing remarkable growth. Developing into strong young man, he is assisted every step of the way by his unwavering family, who support Jaden with their drive to see him succeed. In their own words, “Don’t set the bar too low; aim for up high and you might get there.”
Jaden’s journey is just beginning.
Jaden with his grandparents Peter and Shirley: “Jaden can understand far more than people know; we are so proud of him.”
