About Words 2 Action
Words 2 Action is a program for anyone with a disability, and families and carers, to learn how to better deal with, and get through the hoops and hurdles of the systems that support you. Whether that’s dealing with the NDIS, your carers, where you live, your job, your doctor, or even family and friends, it can sometimes be hard to have your say, and have people really hear what it is that you want.
Words 2 Action is an Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) disability project run by Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia (ADA Australia), which is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing. ADA Australia is a not-for-profit independent advocacy and education service with over 30 years’ experience in supporting and improving the well-being of older people and people with disability.
Our Team
Meet our experienced advocate team who are working in your area to host information sessions, and one-to-one coaching sessions.
Michala Menzel
Hi, I’m Michala, a disability advocate with the Words 2 Action team. With a background in social work, I bring a strengths-based and solution-focused approach to advocacy. I’m passionate about supporting people with disability to recognise their strengths, build confidence and develop the skills to speak up about what matters to them.
A big part of my approach is holding space and listening, giving people the opportunity to feel heard and work through things at their own pace. From there, I enjoy working alongside people to break down tricky situations, explore their options and find practical ways forward that feel right for them. For me, it’s about building on the skills and knowledge people already have and supporting them to feel more confident using their own voice.
Outside of work, I love spending time in nature, exploring new places and finding a good coffee shop or bakery along the way. I’m naturally curious, love trying new things and am always keen to learn something new.
Jaime Best
Hi, I’m Jaime (Jum), your disability advocate with the Words 2 Action team for North Queensland. I have a strong background in NDIS and really understand the extra challenges people with disability from our rural areas can face when trying to deal with the NDIS and get the supports you need in place. I also have a good understanding of how to navigate other services like health and mental health and know the community well.
I am happy to call Charters Towers home. When I’m not at work, you will find me at campdrafts and Stockman’s Challenges, both competing and volunteering on committees. I also co-founded the not-for-profit organisation, Rural Women Unite (RWU). RWU raises vital funds and awareness for mental health in the bush, something that is very close to my heart having lived both rural and very remote. I really enjoy the relaxed country lifestyle; I am a huge Gordon Ramsay fan and have a passion for cooking really good food! I look forward to working with you to help you have your say and get what you need to live a good life in this great part of Queensland.
Ricardo (Ricky) Gracia
Hi, I’m Ricardo but you can call me Ricky. I have a background in law, human rights and social work, and addressing systemic issues with the United Nations. My work includes creating educational spaces to promote social justice. I am passionate about empowering people and communities to uphold their rights, and changing the systems when things aren’t right. The Tweed Coast is a beautiful part of the world, and you deserve to enjoy a good life here like everyone else. I cover from Coolangatta to Byron Bay, Mullumbimby and down to Ballina.
Outside of work, I enjoy dancing, playing soccer, playing my guitar, and travelling as well as connecting with nature. I look forward to working with you.
Helen Haidle
Hi, I’m Helen, your disability advocate with the Words 2 Action team for Central Queensland. My background is in vocational education with a focus on supporting students that have had barriers to learning and fallen out of the mainstream education setting. I have seen that the education and continuous learning can empower lives. That’s what the Words 2 Action program is about. You will learn not only about specific topic areas such as issues with the NDIS, employment rights and consumer complaints, but you will also develop the skills and confidence to solve everyday issues and be your own best advocate.
Outside of work my husband and I love sailing, and I enjoy spending time with family and friends or relaxing with music and a good movie. I am based in Yeppoon, but cover Rockhampton, out to Emerald and down to Gladstone and Biloela. I look forward to working with you.