Empower Ryde – Join Our Peer-Led Employment Program
Build skills. Meet new people. Grow your confidence.
Empower Ryde is a free program for people living with disability who want to build job skills, learn about work and business, and connect with others in a friendly and supportive group.
The program is peer-led, which means participants help guide the topics and activities. Together, we learn, share and support each other on the journey toward employment and independence.
What You Will Learn
Each session includes helpful information, hands-on activities and time to talk with others. You can suggest ideas or topics that you would like to learn about.
Some topics that we have explored include:
- Job skills – how to write a résumé, look for jobs and talk to employers
- Workplace confidence – how to share your strengths and ask for support
- Business ideas – how to turn your hobbies or interests into small business opportunities
- Wellbeing – staying calm, motivated and looking after yourself
- Your rights – understanding support services and what is available to you
All sessions are held in accessible, easy-to-reach library spaces.
The 2026 sessions will be held in the Wallumetta Room in Ryde Library, 1 Pope St, Ryde.
Sessions run from 10am to 12pm, which gives you time to attend and still manage your day.
- 16 February 2026
- 20 April 2026
- 15 June 2026
- 17 August 2026
- 19 October 2026
- 21 December 2026
Who Can Join?
Empower Ryde is open to:
- People living with disability
- People who live, work or are connected to the City of Ryde who want to build their work skills
- Participants who enjoy learning with others in a friendly group
- Anyone interested in employment, volunteering, study or starting a business
No experience is needed – bring your curiosity and we will guide you from there.
What to Expect
- A welcoming group where everyone is respected
- Fun and practical activities you can use in real life
- Guest speakers who share useful advice and tools
- Peer leaders who help run the sessions
- A program that grows with you and your goals
Why Join Empower Ryde?
- Build confidence
- Meet new people
- Learn real skills for work
- Discover services and programs that can help you
- Share your goals and be supported
- Be part of a positive community
This is a space where your voice matters, and your strengths are recognised.
What Participants Say
“As a refugee who arrived in Australia in 2014, being part of Empower Ryde has been incredibly meaningful for me. I previously worked for many years within the Municipality of Aleppo, and having the opportunity to contribute and help lead a community program here has given me a deep sense of belonging. Experiences like delivering an Acknowledgement of Country for the first time were truly moving, and this journey has helped me grow in confidence while giving back to the Australian community that welcomed me.”— Sonia (Deputy Chair 2025)
“I’ve only been in Australia for a short time and Empower Ryde made a big difference in helping me understand how things work here. Through the program, I learned about council services, community programs and employment pathways, and I felt supported every step of the way. Being part of the group helped me build confidence and feel more connected to my new community.” — Laurel (Participant 2025)
What Supporting Facilitators Say
“Empower Ryde is a wonderful group of people who are motivated to find what their next step will be. It’s been great to see the relationships that have developed – a couple of our members have even gone onto create their own podcast at the local radio station!” — Alexia (Supporting Facilitator 2025)
“I am so proud to be part of a group that helps facilitate a voice for people that often might not feel heard. Every person has value to add to the world sometimes we just need someone to help us see how to use it in the workplace.” — Lisa (Supporting Facilitator 2025)
How to Join
To register your interest or find out more: