While some achievements are big and easy to recognise, Jantakan believes the small moments can have just as much impact. Whether it is supporting good nutrition, encouraging self-expression, or helping someone communicate their preferences, her approach to disability support is always on ensuring the people she supports feel heard, valued, and respected.
I encourage people to use their voice, express their preferences, and make their own decisions.” she shares. “I believe listening is just as important as supporting.”
For those who may not be able to advocate for themselves, Jantakan works to ensure their needs, choices, and dignity remain at the centre of every decision.
Inspired by Positivity and Resilience
One customer who has left a lasting impression on Jantakan is a person who is non-verbal and lives with cerebral palsy. Despite ongoing challenges, they approach life with enthusiasm, positivity, and an incredible sense of joy. They enjoy spending time in the community, trying new activities, and embracing every opportunity for adventure.
Every day, the customer gets up looking forward to his next adventure. The positive attitude and resilience remind me that progress isn’t always about big achievements. It’s about enjoying life, being involved, having a voice, and making the most of every opportunity.”
Growing Through Support and Learning
In her six months with Interchange WA, Jantakan has already experienced significant personal and professional growth. Alongside her role at Interchange WA, she also works in a hospital rehabilitation setting. The experience gained across both environments has strengthened her confidence, adaptability, and understanding of individual support needs.
She values the opportunity to continue learning while helping others achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives.
Empowerment and Respect in Disability Support
When asked which Interchange WA value resonates most strongly with her, Jantakan finds it difficult to choose just one. However, empowerment and respect stand out as values she sees closely connected.
Supporting someone doesn’t mean making decisions for them,” she explains. “It means encouraging them to have a voice, make their own choices and do as much as they can for themselves.”
For Jantakan, empowerment is a form of respect. By supporting people to make decisions and pursue what matters most to them, we honour their individuality, dignity, and right to direct their own lives.
Looking Ahead
Outside of work, Jantakan is a proud mum and values the love and support of her family. The resilience, patience, and compassion she has developed through her own life experiences continue to shape the way she supports others every day.
Her goal for the future is simple but meaningful: to travel the world with her husband and retire before the age of 50. Until then, she remains focused on making a positive difference, one person, one conversation, and one small moment at a time.
At Interchange WA, we celebrate Interchangers like Jantakan who bring our values of Empowerment, Respect, Individuality and Belonging to life every day through meaningful disability support. To learn more about our approach or explore the support options we offer, connect with our friendly team on (08) 9329 9399 or email enquiry@interchangewa.org.au.
