Challenges Changed My Life

This post was written by Channtey Heng.

Living with disabilities brought a lot of challenges, but I never gave up my commitment.

I was born in Cambodia to a poor and broken family. I have polio in my right leg and suffer from visual impairment. Mum worked hard to look after me and two brothers who also had disabilities, so I committed to changing the situation and removing the impost and impact of discrimination. Even though I couldn't see well, I committed to finishing my Master's Degree to work at an international organisation as a disability inclusion advisor. 

For over 16 years, I have gained experience in disability mainstreaming, advocacy, project management, coaching and mentoring. But even though I achieved higher education and a good job, I still faced a lot of challenges against my visual impairment. The limited accessibility and bad attitude from others continued in my life.

I moved to Australia in November 2024, after being granted a partner visa. Life in a new country was not easy, especially with a visual impairment. I was not independent enough to use public transport, there were challenges in cold weather, no job, and I missed my family in Cambodia, so I stayed home alone while my husband worked. I applied for many jobs, searching and contacting disability organisations for volunteers, but no opportunities came. I contacted employment services but was not eligible because of my non-permanent residence. I recently had a problem with hearing loss and was required to use a hearing aid, and the cost to get two hearing aids while not having a job is high. I contacted many hospitals and organisations for sponsorship, but couldn’t get it.  It was very stressful and challenging, but I never gave up my commitment.

Fortunately, my husband did fundraising so I could get a hearing aid. At the same time, I got a volunteer job through a friend. However, it was challenging to travel to work, but luckily, my manager was very helpful and supportive. The first day of work was exciting, and I believe that this is a good starting point towards having a full-time job in the future.

I’m writing this to encourage everyone to keep strong and think positively while facing the challenges in life with a disability, because it could bring you more chances to be successful. Keep going and never give up on your commitment; it is the best way to change your life.

Channtey Heng is now based in Melbourne and recently completed a role as a Board Member for the Australia–Cambodia Cooperation for Equitable Sustainable Services.