Sonia Pires
Oakleigh South
Summary
I am committed to empowering individuals to achieve independence through inclusive education and training. My leadership, communication, and motivational skills, combined with being an attentive listener, align with this belief. I am seeking a role where I can apply my expertise to advocate for people with disabilities and support them in achieving their goals.
Encouraging manager and analytical problem-solver with talents for team building, leading and motivating, as well as excellent customer relations aptitude and relationship-building skills. Proficient in using independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success. Dedicated to applying training, monitoring and morale-building abilities to enhance employee engagement and boost performance.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Director/Owner
e2 Young Engineers
City of Kingston, Melbourne, Australia
06.2018 - 12.2024
- Founded and managed a successful educational business, offering STEM and coding programs for children in primary school settings with a focus on fostering curiosity and critical thinking
- Led all aspects of business operations, including marketing, sales, recruitment, training, event planning, and customer service, ensuring smooth and effective day-to-day operations
- Designed and facilitated STEM and coding classes for children (Prep to Grade6) with autism and developmental disabilities in both special and mainstream private and public-school settings
- Developed individualized lesson plans and adaptive teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring all students could engage meaningfully
- Fostered an inclusive, supportive classroom environment to help students build technical skills, confidence, and problem-solving abilities
- Collaborated with educators, parents, and specialists to assess progress and adjust learning strategies as needed
- Utilized a variety of digital tools, hands-on activities, and interactive learning strategies, such as PowerPoint presentations, to engage students and promote critical thinking
- Hired, trained, and mentored instructors, set performance goals, and conducted regular performance evaluations to ensure high-quality delivery
- Built and maintained strong relationships with school leaders, administrative staff, and parents to ensure program continuity and success
- Restarted operations post-COVID, re-marketing programs to schools and councils, hiring and training new staff, and achieving the highest profit margins with increased sales following the relaunch
- Introduced a flexible learning program offering students the choice between online or in-class options, ensuring continuity during COVID-related restrictions
Case Manager/Employment Consultant
EPIC Assist
Melbourne, Australia
06.2017 - 08.2018
- Worked with young adults with disabilities to secure meaningful employment in inclusive workplace settings, focusing on long-term career success
- Empowered and supported clients by building their skills, confidence, and abilities through tailored education and training programs
- Achieved employment goals by providing personalized, timely service to each client, ensuring their unique needs were met
- Collaborated closely with employers to facilitate workplace transitions, creating necessary adjustments and supports to promote the clients' active participation and success in their roles
- Supported families in transitioning to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), guiding them through the process and ensuring a smooth and efficient transition to NDIS services
Case Manager/Disability Support Worker
Ability Pathways to Independence
Melbourne, Australia
02.2015 - 06.2018
- Supported young adults transitioning from school to practical work placements in inclusive settings, enhancing their skills and overall employability
- Facilitated the development of clients' skills, abilities, and confidence through tailored training and educational programs focused on upskilling
- Created personalized workplace training programs for each client, enhancing productivity and helping them integrate into the workforce effectively
- Collaborated with employers to support workplace transitions, implementing necessary adjustments and accommodations to promote active participation and success
Client Service Advocate
Attune Hearing
Melbourne, Australia
10.2012 - 02.2015
- Handled incoming calls at the Customer Service Centre from clients across Australia, addressing queries and aiding related to hearing aids and services
- Conducted audits on various clinics to ensure compliance with client record management protocols and procedures, maintaining accurate and up-to-date information
- Performed receptionist duties, including scheduling appointments, client billing, and maintaining a smooth flow of operations
- Played a key role in organizing team-building events to enhance collaboration and morale within the company
- Successfully acquired new clients through active participation in exhibitions and seminars on hearing, expanding the company’s client base
Coordinator
Accessible
Auckland, New Zealand
06.2011 - 09.2011
- Reviewed and processed hearing aid applications, ensuring accuracy and compliance with the Ministry of Health’s standards and requirements
- Met strict monthly deadlines while staying up to date with evolving processes and regulations
- Took on additional responsibilities, including answering phone calls, addressing client queries, and assisting audiologists and clinics with application procedures
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology & Sociology
University of Mumbai
Diploma - Disability Studies
Holmesglen
Certificate IV - Disability Studies
Holmesglen
Skills
- Advocacy
- Verbal and written communication
- Negotiation
- Customer relations
- Problem Solving
- Operations management
- Marketing expertise
- Business analysis
- Strategic planning
- Small business operations
- Staff management
- Staff hiring
- Employee development
- Financial management
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Hindi
Professional Working
French
Limited Working
Interests
- Volunteering
- I participate in low-impact exercises to strengthen core muscles
- Youth mentor, providing guidance and support to empower the next generation of leaders
- Music
- Avid Reader
- I enjoy helping others and giving back to the community
- Supporting STEM education initiatives and mentorship programs
- Mindfulness Practices
- Getting involved in local advocacy groups to promote positive change in the community
Timeline
Director/Owner
e2 Young Engineers
06.2018 - 12.2024
Case Manager/Employment Consultant
EPIC Assist
06.2017 - 08.2018
Case Manager/Disability Support Worker
Ability Pathways to Independence
02.2015 - 06.2018
Client Service Advocate
Attune Hearing
10.2012 - 02.2015
Coordinator
Accessible
06.2011 - 09.2011
Diploma - Disability Studies
Holmesglen
Certificate IV - Disability Studies
Holmesglen
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology & Sociology
University of Mumbai