Stepping Stones Buddying - Team Iris and Michelle

My name is Iris and I’m a freelance Fashion Buying & Sourcing Consultant. I came across Stepping Stones Buddy Project back in January. I wasn’t sure what I could do to help people with learning disabilities at first.

After several meetings with the Stepping Stones Officer and three weeks invaluable training for mental health and learning disability awareness I now have a better understanding on the difference between non-disabled & disabled people. We all have some kind of learning difficulties and feel isolated from time to time. Unfortunately some of us have to struggle with some disadvantages constantly…

I have worked in the super fast and profit making oriented Fashion Industry for many years. Being a mentor for someone with learning disabilities has not just given me a better understanding in dealing with vulnerable adults, I have also been given the opportunity to get to know how the other industries operate. It is so good to see that there are so many kind hearted people making a real difference on peoples’ lives. Truly, It is better to give than to receive!

I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to use my time and energy well. Being a Stepping Stones Buddy volunteer has opened my eyes and indeed is a life enriching experience. I hope my positive thinking and the determination to “make a difference” will make people happier as well as a contribution to the community!