Link June 2017 Vol 26 Issue 3 | Page 6

link loves loves fashion forward A dream career in the fashion industry is one step closer for 18-year-old Steph thanks to an innovative partnership between disability service provider Barkuma and Australian designer Paul Vasileff. The enthusiastic year 12 student, who hopes to move into a hair and beauty course via Barkuma’s Transition Program, got the chance to meet Paul, the founder and Barkuma ambassador Paul Vasileff with Barkuma client Steph. designer of the Paolo Sebastian label, as part of his new role as The Paolo Sebastian label is Barkuma chief executive officer ambassador for Adelaide-based an international success story, Geoff Blackwood said the Barkuma. established in South Australia. partnership would provide Vasileff’s creations have graced Barkuma with new opportunities, During the meeting Paul told Steph magazine covers and red carpets and would be a great asset in about the importance of hard work across the globe and are a helping motivate and inspire the and staying true to yourself. favourite of many celebrities Barkuma family. including Danni Minogue, Delta “My current dream job in the fashion Goodrem and Carrie Bickmore. industry is to be a model and as a “Like Barkuma, Paul has worked hard to be recognised and start I have enrolled in a four day Paul said he was excited to be included as a quality South modelling course,” Steph said. involved with Barkuma, which Australian icon. Although working recently celebrated 50 years in in differing industries, Barkuma South Australia. is at the forefront of ‘individual “I’m also interested in fashion design and have learned to sew a design’ offering programs that are little and have made myself a skirt. “The support they offer in training NDIS compliant and specifically I love following trends, styles and and helping people to find jobs is tailored to suit each person we seasonal fashions and I really like so important and does so much for support.” how fashion is a way to express their confidence and self-esteem,” your personality.” Paul said. Share your views and read about all things disability-related at facebook.com/linkdisabilitymagazine. 04 link loves linkonline.com.au