Breaking Barriers with Martin Wren: Disability Employment and Inclusion

Welcome to another special guest interview on the Work Wonders podcast. This time, we interviewed Martin Wren, CEO of NOVA Employment.

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Martin Wren is the Chief Executive Officer of NOVA Employment, a Sydney-based Disability Employment Service (DES) that has supported the vocational aspirations of young people living with disabilities for more than 30 years. Martin is well known for speaking out on the rights of young people with disabilities to find and sustain employment in award-wage jobs. He believes the secret to ensuring jobs for each person with a disability is matching the individual’s aspirations and abilities to available opportunities.

In this episode, Angela and Susan talk with Martin about NOVA Employment’s dedication to empowering young people with disabilities through meaningful employment. Martin shares his extensive experience of over 30 years in the disability employment sector and provides valuable insights into the importance of inclusive hiring practices. He discusses employment’s profound impact on individuals with disabilities, enhancing their confidence, independence, and social integration.

Martin also highlights NOVA Employment’s initiatives, including their successful “Focus on Ability” Film Festival. This festival challenges filmmakers globally to create films celebrating the talents and achievements of people with disabilities.

Here are just a few of the over 3,000 short films, as recommended to us by Martin:

Mat – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bK_4mN5VK-k&t=11s

Family First – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3oPwaD3NO8

Mr Ability – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGye-E_AeTA

I’m Marcus – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bU0xsc40l2M

Throughout the conversation, Martin dispels common misconceptions about employing individuals with disabilities and offers practical advice for employers interested in building a more inclusive workforce.

Key Takeaways:

Value of Inclusive Employment: Martin emphasizes that hiring people with disabilities should be approached no differently than any other employment decision. The key is matching individuals’ skills with job roles that allow them to thrive.
Breaking Down Barriers: He shares stories of transformation, where employees with disabilities gained confidence, skills, and independence through supportive workplaces.
The Focus on Ability Film Festival: Martin discusses how this festival, founded in 2009, has grown into an international platform showcasing short films that change perceptions about disabilities. The festival includes entries from high school students to international filmmakers, fostering greater acceptance and understanding.
Advice for Employers: Martin encourages employers to be open-minded and see beyond traditional hiring criteria. He underscores that providing a welcoming environment is less about special accommodations and more about treating individuals as valued team members.