Professional Deaf Australians

Leadership skills are transferable skills, anyone can be a leader, some will find it easier to do and some will find it harder but it is all trainable, and if you look at all the leaders past present and future they will all have one thing in common that makes them stand out. That is PERSONALITY. Over time people have to examine their own persona and make adjustments where it is necessary in any given situation. I would go so far as to say leaders who do not possess personality are often those to hang on their positions using fear and dictatorial practices. Personality wins people over to you

I first met Damian Barry, in July of 1993, when he was in charge of running the training programme established by Friends For The Young Deaf, FYD [now defunct]. He was brought out to Australia to run a weekend workshop in Initiative Training. I have rather fond memories of our first meeting. He was one of the first Professional Deaf people to have such an impact on me, that I was inspired to further my training with FYD: Leadership Parts 1 and 2, Management Training and Ambassador Training.

There were trials and tribulations for sure, but our friendship has endured, and the lessons he had to teach, still remain etched in my consciousness. My friendship with Damian and experiences with FYD, influenced the formation, structure and direction of Professional Deaf Australians.

They continue to influence my own outlook on life and my current career direction, for which I am, and remain grateful.

I have followed Damian’s career trajectory, thanks to the internet, and was quite surprised that he took the unprecedented step, for him, to set up his own business, Deaf Answers. It is a continuation of his work with FYD, but is focussed on the holistic aspects of training, coaching and mentoring. Effectively tapping into the emerging trend among Deaf people, for an integrated approach to life, education and work.

I was fortunate to be able to interview him, and the results of that interview can be read here.

External Link:

Deaf Answers