Case Study: YDAN
The Youth Disability Advocacy Network (YDAN) is Western Australia’s leading organisation representing young people with disabilities aged 12–25. Established in 2015, they champion the voices of young people with lived experience, ensuring they are heard in decision-making forums. Through their network, advocacy work, and community engagement, YDAN promotes equal rights and opportunities, working towards a more inclusive society. Their approach combines peer support, advocacy, and practical action to break down barriers and create meaningful change for young people with disabilities in WA.
The need
YDAN identified two critical gaps for young people with disabilities in WA. First, many struggled to advocate effectively for themselves in a system riddled with barriers. Second, they faced significant challenges in securing meaningful employment opportunities. The organisation required practical tools to build both confidence and capability, empowering young people to take control of their journeys.
The learning solution
Working closely with YDAN, we co-developed two programs that equip young people with disabilities with practical tools for self-advocacy and employment success.
Nothing Without Me: Self-Advocacy Toolkit
At the core of this program is a practical ‘self-advocacy flow’—a step-by-step framework guiding users through articulating their needs. We brought this to life via engaging eLearning featuring real stories from young people sharing their advocacy journeys.
The toolkit includes:
- A comprehensive facilitator guide for delivering impactful workshops
- Practical templates to simplify advocacy processes
- Interactive activities fostering real-world confidence
- Reflection tools to document insights and progress
UNLEASHED Employment Program
This program transforms job-seeking from overwhelming to achievable. Interactive eLearning modules help users build practical skills and confidence, while a digital workbook supports them in tracking their progress.
We developed a suite of resources, including:
- Customisable templates for CVs and cover letters
- Meeting preparation guides and tools
- Materials aligning with YDAN’s networking events
- Workplace communication resources
Both programs prioritise accessible design, clear language, and opportunities for practical application. By blending digital learning with hands-on tools, we created solutions that empower young people to take action while equipping YDAN with sustainable resources for ongoing support.
The outcome
We delivered a suite of learning tools that advance YDAN’s mission to dismantle barriers for young people with disabilities. The programs collectively build skills and confidence—from self-advocacy to pursuing employment goals.
By merging digital learning with practical resources and real-world application, these solutions help shift mindsets from ‘I can’t’ to ‘I can’, while providing YDAN with scalable, sustainable tools for long-term impact.
The design ensures participants can:
- Learn at their own pace via accessible eLearning
- Practise skills in supportive environments
- Access practical tools as needed
- Apply learning directly to real-life scenarios
Duration
8 weeks for Self Advocacy Toolkit
16 weeks for UNLEASHED Employement Program
