Blog: Navigating the job market and the workplace with a disability - my journey

Marking Disability Pride Month with Luda Balan with a personal look at navigating life, graduation, and the workforce as a disabled creator:

Diving Straight into the Deep End: Finding My Footing

On my very first day as a volunteer, I didn't just shadow someone or ease my way in—I delved straight into the heart of the job. I threw myself into every single task and actively took part in absolutely everything happening around me. Before long, I even found myself stepping up to guide and support brand-new members of permanent staff. I focused on building their confidence and helping them find their footing, to the point where they actually gave the management feedback about how helpful and encouraging I had been to them.

That day was a massive reminder of exactly what I am capable of, but getting to that starting line wasn't easy. Finding a job can be an exhausting process for anyone, but when you are navigating the market with a disability, it adds an entirely different layer of complexity. From deciding when—or if—to disclose your disability to wondering how a company’s culture will actually play out day-to-day, the journey is rarely straightforward.

Now that I’ve been through it and spent some real time in the workforce, I wanted to share my own experiences to offer a bit of insight and encouragement to anyone in a similar boat.

The Job Hunt: To Disclose or Not to Disclose?

Graduating from university was an exciting milestone, but I quickly found myself at a total crossroads, completely unsure of where to start or how to go about applying for jobs. My heart was completely set on finding a role within the performing arts sector—ideally working as an assistant director or helping out at local drama clubs before embracing the world of acting! Eager to get my foot in the door and grab some experience, I took a proactive approach and just started emailing tons of different arts organisations, asking if they had any job roles or voluntary positions available.

The responses were incredibly disheartening. A lot of places just told me straight away that they had no vacancies. What was even more heartbreaking, though, was the reaction from others; as soon as they found out I had a disability, they’d tell me that accommodating my needs in a creative or theatre environment would be "too difficult."

After facing so many setbacks in the arts sector, I decided to broaden my search. That is when I thought of The Deep. It wasn't an organization I had initially planned to look for work in, but it was a place I had absolutely loved visiting as a child and I knew they had Tour Guide roles, which would incorporate that performing flair perfectly! So, I reached out to them. They turned out to be the sole exception to my job-hunting struggles. The Deep was the only place that looked past the barriers, welcomed my email with open arms, and gave me the opportunity to show what I could do.

Settling into the Workforce: Reality vs. Expectation

Stepping into my role at The Deep wasn't actually a paid job at first—it was a voluntary position. I ended up volunteering for three months before officially landing a job. While I was thrilled to be there, the transition period added a lot of extra pressure. Working with a disability means constantly managing your environment and your energy, but during those three months, I felt an intense need to prove myself. I felt this constant weight to show I could do the job with my disability—not just to my boss and the higher-ups, but to the work colleagues I stood alongside every single day.

Overall, my three years working there proved to be an incredibly positive experience. I learned so many new skills during my time, and my confidence really shone through. A huge part of that success was due to having a supportive team and flexible adjustments in place. We actively worked together to figure out what worked best for all of us, creating an environment where I could truly thrive.

Breaking Down Barriers (and Misconceptions)

If there is one thing I wish more employers understood, it’s that disabled employees bring an immense amount of unique value to a team. Navigating a world that wasn't necessarily built for you forces you to develop high-level skills in problem-solving, adaptability, resilience, and time management. These are exactly the "soft skills" that businesses desperately need!

While there are definitely still days that are challenging—whether that’s dealing with fatigue, physical barriers, or navigating office politics—finding a rhythm and a supportive network around you is what makes a massive difference!

My Advice to Fellow Job Seekers

If you are currently looking for work or trying to find your feet in a new workplace with a disability, here are a few things I’d love for you to keep in mind:

1. Know Your Rights:
   Familiarise yourself with local labor laws and workplace regulations regarding reasonable accommodations. Knowledge really is power when it comes to advocating for yourself.
2. Be Your Own Advocate (But Find Allies):
   No one knows what you need better than you do! Clearly state what helps you succeed, don’t be afraid to ask for help, and look for managers and colleagues who champion inclusivity.
3. Remember Your Value:
   Your disability is a part of your story, but your talent, perspective, and skills are why a company will be lucky to have you. Don't shrink yourself to fit into an unaccommodating space.

The journey isn't always smooth sailing, but every single barrier we break down makes the path just a little bit easier for the next person walking it! As for me? I’ve officially taken my own advice and stepped out to chase my dream of a career in acting. I have already successfully done a few projects, and I am still actively looking for and pursuing new roles every day. The journey continues!

- Luda Balan

All blogs reflect the views of their author and are not necessarily a reflection of BIAZA's positions