Diane Avice
Volunteer since: 2021
Day job:
I am the Operations Manager at Unique Support Services, a Disability Service Organisation based in Wanneroo. We are a family organisation working alongside families within an NDIS world.
My journey in Disability began in 2008, when I made my debut in Disability Employment Service. I enjoyed the challenges working across Perth and Melbourne for five amazing years in a variety of roles including Coordination, Marketer, Supervisor and Manager.
I further went on to join the State Government as a Local Area Coordinator, a community based approach towards assisting individuals and their families access the right disability service. I thrive in a dynamic and changing environment as I see the positives in change and stepping outside my comfort zone.
My expertise of the NDIS comes from a solid few years working in the complex space and having a finger on the pulse of the sector. I strongly encourage anyone contemplating a career in the Disability/ Community services sector, it is such a fulfilling role and you get to be a part of a world leading social policy initiative that is changing the lives of Australians for the better.
Tell us a bit about yourself:
I am a mother before everything else, I am a proud mum and I am dedicated to raising my children on value based parenting. My journey has also helped me uncover the other roles I fulfill in my family life and my community. I am passionate about arts, literature and enjoy a good movie or documentary.
I was always inspired by my father’s attitude towards learning, his thirst for books and knowledge and I proudly follow his footsteps today. I have two beautiful sisters who are also my best friends, we have a unique bond for which I am grateful. I value multiculturalism, diversity, inclusion and equity and will lend my voice to amplify such causes.
How long have you been involved with 100 Women?
I first heard of 100 Women through the Diverse Women Leadership program in 2021, facilitated by Alicia Curtis. I quickly realised that 100 Women wholly aligns with my values and I decided to formalise my membership in October 2022 at the Annual Gala. I was approached to revamp and monitor the private facebook page profile, which I do alongside my fellow member Heather.
I have since joined the membership committee with the focus of raising the profile of 100 Women, spreading the word and encouraging more Women and allies to join this amazing giving circle. Once you become a 100 Women member, you do not look back. It makes me particularly proud to be a part of this high calibre and diverse group of women, all sharing the dream of creating a better future for women and girls in Australia and around the world.
Which 100 Women grant stories inspire you the most?
Without hesitation, I have to mention Zonta House, a specialist DV organisation; as I am a dedicated advocate against Domestic Violence myself.
Zonta House offers a range of services in the community, with a focus on bringing awareness to Domestic and Family violence. More importantly, it provides emergency support to victims/ survivors of DV.
I have attended a few of their workshops and I love the fact that they work close to their community and reach as wide as they can. We are fortunate to live in a land of opportunities like Australia and I love that 100 Women’s generosity goes beyond our Australian borders to reach those who need it the most.
