Meet the People of APM: Hope Challis

At APM, we strive to be a place where you can bring all yourself to work, make meaningful connections, and have an impact on the communities in which you live and work.  

We recently spoke to Hope Challis, a graduate Occupational Therapist whose journey is both inspiring and impactful.

Understanding personal growth and overcoming challenges 

Hope believes that with determination, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.  

Her unique perspective, shaped by her lived experience of disability. Hope is blind in her left eye and has a paralysed vocal cord – which she feels fuels her passion for supporting individuals with disabilities.  

“Through my own lived experience, volunteering, and professional experience in my early career, I have become who I am today,” she shares. 

Enabling better lives and making a difference 

As a valued member of the Early Start Australia team, which is part of APM Group, she works with young children and their families to ensure they have the best start in life. 

One of Hope’s clients has shared “I wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude for Hope, who has been working with our son. Hope has formed such a wonderful connection with him and her patience and understanding are making a profound difference.”

Recognition is also forthcoming from her colleagues and team members, with Hope recently nominated for two separate awards at our Early Start Australia Awards Night: the Graduate Award and the Living the Values Award. 

Making the time to give back 

Hope also channels her passion into volunteering with various community programs.  

She gives her time to Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) Early Career Community of Practice, supporting new graduates and early-career occupational therapists through live sessions and chat monitoring.  

She also participates in The Inclusion Project, aiding individuals with sensory sensitivities at large sporting events.  

Additionally, she is involved with The Stars and The Moon All Abilities Theatre Company, which pairs actors with and without disabilities to share roles and the spotlight – Hope’s ESA colleagues were excited to support her in the audience of a recent production.  

Creating brighter futures 

Looking ahead, Hope is excited about the role occupational therapists can play in sensory processing, especially at live events and in everyday activities.  

She believes everyone should be included and able to enjoy these experiences without stress. 

Impact with meaning  

Hope’s favourite part of being an occupational therapist is that she is doing something extraordinary every day. The genuine and meaningful difference she can make in the lives of her clients and their families, as well as their extended support networks.  

“I’m able to make positive lasting changes that support and empower my clients to achieve their goals and engage in activities they find meaningful,” Hope says.  

If you’re interested in joining Early Start Australia and adding meaning to your day and working alongside Hope...click here.