For years Alex was ruled by his anxiety, as he bounced from one job to the next, always feeling worthless and never confident in his abilities. Then one day he was offered a job, and he decided that this time, he would stick it out no matter what. He never imagined that decision would be the first step towards helping him feel more confident in his work, and in himself.

A self described grumpy old man, Clay may sometimes annoy his bosses and job coaches, but he’s also a hard worker who cares about doing a good job. Working side by side with his boss George, they share little jokes and enjoy taking digs at each other. It’s clear that he has, as  George says, become part of the furniture in the workplace.

Jarrad, Sam, Akbar have all been featured in previous seasons. We catch up with them to see how they’re going and where they’re working. Each of them have had some pretty major changes in their lives, but they’re all excited for what their future will bring them.

After being diagnosed with a heart condition Josh found himself recovering from surgery and unable to work as he used to. But six months down the track at his new workplace he has already made a big impression, and is now ready to take on his next challenge.

When Ryan started his first ever job he could barely look anyone in the eye, and was terrified of getting lost in the maze-like design of the building. But now, with a bit of support, he’s able to navigate his way around with ease, and is always happy to show new employees the way.

When Amy-Renee suffered a massive breakdown she lost everything, including her confidence. And when she was told she may never be able to work again, her future looked uncertain. But with support from her family and a new workplace, she found herself rebuilding her confidence, one step at a time.

In each episode we get to know a person with a disability and highlight their many abilities in the workplace. If you’re a Sydney or Southern Highlands business that could benefit from great staff visit novaemployment.com.au

For Chad, the hardest thing about living with a disability, was learning how to ask for help. For years, he covered up his struggles at school with anger, aggressive outbursts, and withdrawal, hoping no one would notice that he was different. Chad was on a dangerous path, one he didn't want to keep going down. It took courage to admit that he might need a bit of help to have the future he dreamed of.  

Not having an answer to that common question, can be stressful and embarrassing. When Sam finished school last year, he really didn’t know what he was going to do next. But instead of playing video games and taking a relaxing ‘gap-year’, Sam decided to make a call. Now? He’s on a path to a career he’d never have imagined, and loving it.  

Two minutes and 14 seconds. That’s the time to beat if Amy is to qualify for the Paralympics swim team next year. But that’s not the only goal she’s working towards. At work, Amy has found the perfect place to find her confidence and prove that she’s got what it takes to be independent.  

Susan was running a successful business and felt like she was finally in a position to give back to her community. Then, she met Lachlan, and realised she might have gotten more than she’d bargained for.  

On his first day at work, Akbar was so shy that he barely said a word. That’s not him though, not really. The real Akbar wants to travel the world and surround himself with new people. He just needs to find some confidence first.  

Finishing high school, Jack felt like he was leaving the happiest days of his life behind him. Obsessed with musicals, movies and the bright lights of theatre - Jack wanted to be on stage. Growing up and going to work was the last thing he thought he’d enjoy. That was, until he found a job where he could bring his passions into the office.  

At school Kieren was an energetic kid that was misunderstood by his classmates. His autism made it hard to fit in, and relentless bullying left him hating life. But since then he’s found his niche. Working in a small family business, he’s discovered he has a natural talent for welding, and his workmates are introducing him to a love of heavy metal music.  

There are two Sharons. One’s a busy, obsessively clean, high powered sales executive. The other is a relaxed and loving childcare worker who likes to smell the roses. They’re almost opposite people - except that they’re the same person, separated by five years and a brain tumour.  

Karen’s first job in the factory at Kurrajong Kitchen has given her a life beyond being a mum, and it’s made her a better mum. After having to fight for her kids, she’s determined to be the positive role model that she never had as a child.  

Having a child with a disability forced Linda Fenech to confront how she – like most of us – rarely took the time to understand those who are a little different. Employing Tayla as a babysitter at her beauty salon, Linda thought that she was doing a favour, but quickly discovered she was getting more from the exchange than she ever expected.  

Ian finds comfort in the routine and repetition of hard work. He’s fresh out of a marriage breakdown and an interstate move that has separated him from his three kids. But in his job cleaning at a local warehouse, he’s found a team that’s a bit like family, and now he’s saving his money for a ticket to visit his children.  

It sounds unlikely – a qualified plumber who planned to take over the family business is now a doorman at the local RSL, and he’s never been happier. Jarrad loves speed, but at 20 years of age it got the better of him, and a near-fatal car accident left him with a traumatic brain injury. Through sheer determination he’s built a life that doctors told him he’d never be able to have.