After several years working as an accountant, Anu Sharma made a bold shift toward a career focused on people, purpose, and impact. 

Now in her 30s, Anu had developed strong analytical and problem-solving skills in the finance sector, but found herself desire work that offered more direct and meaningful human connection. 

“I realised I wanted to work in a role where I could directly support individuals facing complex social and systemic challenges,” Anu says. 

This decision led her to pursue a Bachelor of Community Services with Acknowledge Education in Perth, transitioning from a numbers-focused profession into one centred on advocacy, support, and person-centred practice. 

Through her studies, Anu has developed a deeper understanding of counselling approaches, advocacy, and holistic care. 

Her fieldwork placement has played a key role in shaping this transition, providing hands-on experience supporting individuals with diverse and complex needs. 

“Through placement, I’ve seen how coordinated services and strong advocacy can positively influence people’s wellbeing and independence,” she reflects. 

During this time, Anu has worked alongside service teams to identify appropriate supports, connect clients with providers, and contribute to more coordinated, responsive care. 

She has supported individuals facing barriers to accessing services, as well as those requiring highly individualised and consistent support. 

These experiences have strengthened her understanding of how tailored, person-centred planning can improve stability and day-to-day functioning. 

“It reinforced the importance of listening to clients, respecting their choices, and ensuring support systems are responsive to their unique situations.” 

Anu has developed a strong interest in disability and community support coordination, where the focus is on helping individuals navigate complex systems and work toward their personal goals. 

“Many people face challenges understanding available supports, funding systems, or community resources,” she says. “Effective coordination and advocacy can make a significant difference.” 

This work involves close collaboration with participants, families, and multidisciplinary professionals to ensure supports are practical, culturally respectful, and aligned with each individual’s needs and aspirations. 

“Helping people build independence and confidence in managing their supports is one of the most rewarding aspects of community work,” Anu says. 

For Anu, community work represents a commitment to advocacy, empowerment, and social inclusion. 

It is about supporting individuals to overcome barriers, strengthening their capacity to make informed decisions, and ensuring their voices are heard. 

“Community work is not only about providing support, but also about promoting dignity and helping people create meaningful connections,” she adds. 

For Anu, the transition from accounting to community services reflects a meaningful shift toward a career dedicated to empowerment, advocacy, and helping others live with greater independence, confidence, and opportunity.