At posAbilities, the individuals on our team help make the great work we do possible! Each team member contributes their unique skill sets, backgrounds, knowledge, and of course has a story to tell. For this reason, we are excited to highlight the career-defining moments our ambassadors have experienced throughout the duration of the People of posAbilities campaign.
Introducing Saddiqua Bacchus! Upon finishing her undergraduate degree, Saddiqua was uncertain of her next career move. This led her to explore her options, beginning with a teaching position at a local school. Through teaching, Saddiqua discovered her passion for Applied Behaviour Analysis where she began working alongside individuals with autism. Learn more about Saddiqua’s unique journey below!
Saddiqua Bacchus
I had just graduated with my undergraduate degree in Psychology and perhaps like other young graduates, I was uncertain as to my next move. I decided to employ myself as a substitute teacher in the school district where I lived. Less than three months into this position, one of the principals at the school noticed my “lack of motivation” and suggested I apply to a school for children with autism that was in the area. That’s how it all began. When I applied for the Interventionist position, I was introduced to the science of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), received training, then trained and introduced ABA to individuals entering the field as part of that position. I learned a great deal about ABA, autism, developmental disabilities, and working with families. Fast forward about 15 years to Vancouver, where I received my Masters in Special Education with a concentration in autism, obtained my BCBA certification, and eventually transitioned into my role as a Behaviour Consultant with posAbilities. I truly see my impact on the families I support on a daily basis. I am able to assist each family with their individual needs using the skills and professionalism I’ve developed over the years. From this experience, I have learned the importance of listening to the needs of a family for as long as required, before diving into solving problems! This allows me to get a better understanding of the scope of the issues and how to proceed. In doing this work, I value the fact that we have a stellar supportive network available to us at posAbilities. I take it upon myself to see any situation as a learning opportunity. Behaviour Consultants are not counselors by trade, but we frequently play that role. My ability to communicate better with families and to provide them with the opportunity to speak freely, has allowed me to perform the tasks ahead of me with greater insight. At posAbilities, I feel we are working towards empowering the individuals we support to lead more meaningful and productive lives. Whether it’s minimizing challenging behaviours, seeking employment opportunities, or greater community connections, we may take different routes, but we have the same understanding of how to get there. I observe this quality and value at posAbilities on a daily basis.
Explore your opportunities with us, visit: https://posabilities.ca/careers/current-opportunities/
Photos by Maxine Tamoto, @prunecandy, prunecandyphotography.com
